Waalwijk vs Den Haag Prediction & Betting Tips (26 September)

The Mandemakers Stadion will host a compelling clash on September 26 as RKC Waalwijk welcomes ADO Den Haag in Round 8 of the Eerste Divisie. Both sides are navigating transitional phases, with Waalwijk recently relegated from the Eredivisie and Den Haag still rebuilding under head coach Darije Kalezić. Waalwijk’s form has been erratic, with two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five outings. Their recent 2-1 win over Telstar showed glimpses of attacking sharpness, particularly from midfielder Daouda Weidmann, who has emerged as a creative force in the middle of the park.

Den Haag, meanwhile, are coming off a frustrating 0-0 draw against Almere City, a match that underscored their struggle to convert possession into goals. Jari Vlak remains their standout performer, contributing two goals in four appearances this season. However, defensive lapses have haunted them, especially in away fixtures, where they’ve conceded in both halves in 60% of their matches. Kalezić has emphasized tactical discipline in recent press briefings, but the squad’s cohesion under pressure remains a work in progress.

Historically, Den Haag have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last five meetings. Yet Waalwijk’s recent home form and their ability to score in bursts suggest a shift in momentum. The hosts have averaged 1.4 goals per game and are particularly dangerous in the first half, often setting the tone early. With Weidmann orchestrating play and the team showing signs of defensive tightening, Waalwijk will look to exploit Den Haag’s vulnerability on the counter.

Expect a tightly contested affair with Waalwijk edging ahead through early pressure and midfield dominance. Den Haag may find a late response, likely through Vlak or a set-piece opportunity, but the home side’s resilience should see them through. A 2-1 scoreline in favor of Waalwijk feels both plausible and poetic—a nod to their resurgence and a warning to Den Haag that their rebuild still has hurdles to clear.