Groningen vs Heracles Prediction & Betting Tips (29 August)

FC Groningen welcome Heracles Almelo to the Hitachi Capital Mobility Stadium on August 29 in a clash between two sides desperate to climb the Eredivisie ladder. Groningen, currently sitting 11th, have shown flashes of attacking promise, especially in their recent 2-1 win over Heerenveen. Brynjólfur Darri Willumsson, who had struggled for goals late last season, rediscovered his scoring touch with a brace, and looks set to lead the line again. Coach Dick Lukkien will be encouraged by the chemistry developing between Willumsson and young winger Thom van Bergen, whose relentless pressing and pace have unsettled defenses. Despite a 4-2 loss to PSV last week, Groningen managed six shots on target and showed they can hurt teams even away from home.

Heracles, meanwhile, are rooted to the bottom of the table after two heavy defeats, conceding eight goals and scoring just once. New manager Bas Sibum has had a torrid start, with injuries compounding his tactical headaches. The absence of Jeff Reine-Adélaïde, who requires knee surgery, and the suspension of Jizz Hornkamp following a red card against NEC, leaves the Almelo side short of creativity and firepower. Luka Kulenovic is expected to start up front, but the Bosnian striker has yet to replicate last season’s form. Heracles’ defensive frailties were exposed again in their 2-0 loss to Ajax, and with Mario Engels also sidelined, Sibum may be forced to rely on academy graduates to plug the gaps.

Groningen’s summer signings have added depth and experience to a youthful squad. Oskar Zawada, brought in from RKC Waalwijk, offers aerial threat and composure in front of goal, though he remains doubtful for this fixture. The midfield pairing of Stije Resink and Tika De Jonge has provided balance, while defenders Marvin Peersman and Thijmen Blokzijl continue to grow in confidence. Groningen’s home form has been solid, and they’ve already beaten Heracles 4-1 earlier this year. With a 75% win probability and a higher goal-scoring average, the hosts are expected to dominate possession and create more chances.

Expect a spirited showing from Heracles, who will likely sit deep and look to counter through Limbombe and Zamburek. However, Groningen’s superior form and tactical cohesion should see them edge this contest. A 2-1 scoreline feels fitting: Groningen to strike early, Heracles to respond through a set piece, and Willumsson to seal the win late on. It won’t be a walkover, but the Trots van het Noorden have the tools to take all three points and continue their push toward mid-table stability.