Excelsior vs Groningen Prediction & Betting Tips (5 December)

Excelsior Rotterdam enter this upcoming Eredivisie clash against FC Groningen with a mixture of determination and concern. Over the past two months, Excelsior have struggled to find consistency, picking up only scattered points in a league campaign that has seen them hovering near the lower end of the table. Their most recent matches included a narrow 1-0 defeat against Utrecht and a spirited but ultimately unsuccessful 2-3 loss to Heerenveen. The team’s attacking line, led by Gino De Regt and Szymon Włodarczyk, has shown flashes of creativity, but defensive lapses have cost them dearly. Excelsior’s young squad, with an average age of just over 23, continues to battle against more experienced opponents, and their supporters hope that home advantage at Stadion Woudestein can inspire a stronger performance.

FC Groningen, on the other hand, have enjoyed a more stable run of form in recent weeks. They secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw against PEC Zwolle and followed it up with a convincing 3-1 victory over Fortuna Sittard, results that have helped them climb into mid-table security. Key players such as Ísak Bergmann Jóhannesson Willumsson, who has already netted five goals this season, and young forward Younes Taha, have been instrumental in keeping Groningen competitive. Their midfield, anchored by Daniël van der Werff, has provided balance and resilience, allowing the team to transition quickly from defense to attack. Groningen’s squad depth and slightly higher market value compared to Excelsior underline their potential to dominate fixtures like this one, especially when facing opponents struggling for rhythm.



The head-to-head record between these two sides also adds intrigue to the contest. In their last five meetings, Groningen have generally had the upper hand, including a 3-0 win in February 2023 and a 2-0 victory in the KNVB Beker in January 2024. Excelsior did manage a 1-0 triumph in one of those encounters, but Groningen’s overall superiority is evident. Recent news surrounding both clubs has highlighted their contrasting ambitions: Excelsior are focused on survival and nurturing young talent, while Groningen are aiming to re-establish themselves as a consistent top-half team. The December 5 fixture is being billed as a crucial test for both, with bookmakers slightly favoring Groningen but acknowledging Excelsior’s ability to spring surprises at home.

Looking ahead to the match itself, the tactical battle will likely hinge on whether Excelsior can contain Groningen’s attacking threats while finding a way to exploit defensive gaps. Excelsior’s midfield creativity from Ilias Yegoian and André Carlén will be vital, but Groningen’s superior form and sharper finishing give them the edge. Considering the recent performances and the momentum carried by Groningen, the most plausible outcome appears to be a narrow away win. Therefore, the prediction stands at a 1:2 correct score, with Groningen expected to secure three points while Excelsior show enough fight to keep the contest competitive.