The champion starts from a position of strength: prediction for AZ vs ADO Den Haag
The opening round of the Dutch Eredivisie between AZ and ADO Den Haag will take place on August 8 at the AFAS Stadium in Alkmaar. The hosts enter the Eredivisie season fresh off a dazzling victory in the Dutch Super Cup, while the visitors are making their return to the top flight after several years in the Eerste Divisie.
AZ: Ten goals in three matches and a strong statement for the season
The Alkmaar side is in outstanding form, riding a 13-match unbeaten streak. Their readiness for the campaign was underlined by a dominant 4-0 win over PSV in the Dutch Super Cup, following up on earlier victories - 3-2 against Olympiacos and 4-0 over Genk.
In their last three outings, AZ have netted ten goals, showcasing the sharpness of their attacking line. Meanwhile, they've conceded just four times in their last five games, suggesting the squad is both balanced and primed to dictate play at home in the season opener.
ADO Den Haag: In good shape, but the level of opposition will rise sharply
The Eredivisie newcomers have also enjoyed a convincing preseason, going unbeaten in five friendlies. Notable results include a 4-0 win over Lommel and a 3-2 triumph against Mechelen, while their final test against Asteras ended in a goalless draw.
The main challenge for ADO Den Haag, however, lies in the stark jump in quality of their opposition. The visitors are used to controlling the game and finding success through attacking play, but in Alkmaar, they'll likely need to be far more cautious and look for their chances on quick counterattacks.
Match facts and head-to-head
- AZ are unbeaten in 13 consecutive matches.
- Alkmaar's side have scored ten goals in their last three games.
- ADO Den Haag have not lost any of their five preseason matches.
The difference in class should show: prediction for AZ vs ADO Den Haag
The visitors have every reason to arrive in Alkmaar in high spirits after a strong summer, but most of their positive results came against lower-tier opponents. Now, they face an AZ side that has already played an official fixture this season and dismantled PSV 4-0.
Home turf, a lengthy unbeaten run, and impressive scoring form make AZ the clear favorites for the opening round. If the hosts maintain the intensity they've shown recently, it will be extremely tough for ADO Den Haag to withstand the pressure for the full ninety minutes.
