AZ Alkmaar vs Zwolle Prediction & Betting Tips (24 September)

AZ Alkmaar welcome PEC Zwolle to the AFAS Stadion on September 24th in what promises to be a compelling Eredivisie clash. AZ, under the guidance of coach Maarten Martens, are riding a wave of momentum with four wins from their last five matches, including a gritty 2-1 away victory over Heracles Almelo. The team has found consistency in attack, with Mexx Meerdink and Alexandre Penetra recently on the scoresheet. With ten points from four games, AZ sit fourth in the table and boast an unbeaten home record against Zwolle in their last 12 meetings, a statistic that adds weight to their status as favorites.

PEC Zwolle, led by Henry van der Vegt, arrive in Alkmaar licking their wounds after a 3-1 defeat to Ajax. Despite flashes of promise earlier in the season, including wins over FC Twente and SC Telstar, Zwolle have struggled to maintain defensive solidity, conceding in each of their last two outings. K. de Rooij remains a bright spot in attack, but the Bluefingers will need more than isolated brilliance to trouble AZ’s well-drilled backline. With six points from four matches, Zwolle sit mid-table, but their recent form suggests a tough afternoon awaits.

Tactically, AZ are expected to dominate possession and press high, exploiting Zwolle’s vulnerability in transition. Martens’ side has averaged two goals per game while conceding less than one, a balance that reflects their current efficiency. Zwolle, meanwhile, may opt for a compact shape and counter-attacking approach, hoping to catch AZ off guard. However, their average of 1.3 goals scored per game is offset by a leaky defense that has allowed an average of one goal per match, a ratio that could prove costly against a team as clinical as AZ.

While bookmakers lean toward a 2-0 outcome, a 2-1 scoreline feels more plausible given Zwolle’s ability to snatch a goal even in defeat. AZ’s attacking rhythm and home advantage should see them through, but van der Vegt’s men are unlikely to go quietly. Expect a match rich in tempo and tactical nuance, with AZ edging it by the odd goal in three. The prediction: AZ Alkmaar 2, PEC Zwolle 1.