AZ Alkmaar – Fortuna Sittard

AZ Alkmaar head into the home fixture against Fortuna Sittard perched in second place with 16 points from five wins and a draw, boasting a healthy +11 goal difference (17 scored, six conceded). Their opponents sit mid‑table in seventh, having gathered 10 points from three victories, one draw and two defeats, and carry a -2 goal swing after netting 12 and letting in 14. The clash pits a defensively solid AZ side, unbeaten so far, against a Fortuna side that has shown a knack for finding the net but also a susceptibility at the back. Given the current standings, a win for the hosts would cement their chase of the top spot, while Fortuna will be looking to close the gap on the European places. The two teams have not met this season, adding an extra layer of intrigue to what could be a pivotal encounter in the race.