Jong AZ vs De Graafschap Prediction & Betting Tips (22 September)

Jong AZ welcome De Graafschap to the AFAS Trainingscomplex on September 22 in a clash between two sides desperate to climb out of the Eerste Divisie basement. Both teams have endured rocky starts to the 2025–26 campaign, each collecting just one win from their opening six matches. Jong AZ, currently 18th, will be buoyed by their recent 4–0 dismantling of Vitesse, a result that snapped a four-game losing streak and injected much-needed confidence into a youthful squad led by standout forward Sem van Duijn, who has netted twice this season. Coach Jan Sierksma will be hoping his side can build on that momentum and finally string together consecutive positive results.

De Graafschap, meanwhile, sit just one place above their hosts in 17th, having also managed a solitary win so far. Their recent 1–1 draw against Willem II showcased flashes of attacking promise, particularly through Reuven Niemeijer, who continues to be a creative force in midfield. However, defensive frailties remain a concern for coach Richard Roelofsen, with the team conceding an average of 1.8 goals per game. Injuries to key players like Kaya Symons have disrupted their rhythm, and the squad’s lack of cohesion has been evident in their last five outings, which include four losses.

Historically, De Graafschap have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings, including a dominant 5–1 victory earlier this year. But Jong AZ’s home form and recent resurgence suggest a more balanced contest this time around. The Alkmaar-based side have shown they can be lethal in transition, and with van Duijn supported by midfielders like Robbemond and Boogaard, they possess the tools to trouble a shaky De Graafschap backline. Expect a high-tempo affair with both teams pushing for goals, especially given their shared vulnerability in defense.

With both sides evenly matched and desperate for points, this encounter promises drama and goals. Jong AZ’s youthful exuberance and recent attacking flair give them a slight edge, especially on home turf. De Graafschap will likely find the net through Niemeijer or El Kadiri, but their defensive lapses could prove costly. A 2–1 scoreline in favor of Jong AZ feels like the most plausible outcome—tight, competitive, and just enough to keep their revival hopes alive.