AZ Alkmaar – NEC Nijmegen

AZ Alkmaar host NEC Nijmegen in what promises to be a decisive clash in the league table, with the hosts sitting second on 16 points after five wins and a draw, boasting a strong 17‑6 goal difference. NEC, currently 10th with seven points from two victories, a draw and three defeats, will need to improve their goal deficit of 11‑12 to climb out of the mid‑table. The contrast in form is stark: AZ remain unbeaten while Nijmegen have already suffered three losses this season. A win for the Dutch champions would cement their challenge for the top spot, whereas a point for the visitors could spark a much‑needed revival.