Nijmegen vs Utrecht Prediction & Betting Tips (9 January)

NEC Nijmegen enter this clash with a sense of renewed confidence after a string of competitive performances that have kept them firmly in the Eredivisie’s upper half. Their recent 2-2 draw against Ajax showed both resilience and attacking sharpness, with Bryan Linssen and Koki Ogawa continuing to influence games. Over the past two months, Nijmegen have also been in the news for transfer interest surrounding Kaishu Sano, as Mainz reportedly explored options involving him. Their form line includes a 3-1 win over Telstar, a 2-2 draw with Telstar again in league action, and a gritty 1-3 away victory earlier in December, all of which underline a team capable of adapting to different match tempos.

FC Utrecht, meanwhile, approach this fixture with a mixed but intriguing run of results. Their recent schedule has been demanding, featuring domestic league matches and Europa League commitments. In the past two months, Utrecht have drawn 2-2 with Go Ahead Eagles, battled to a 1-1 stalemate with NAC Breda, and suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to PSV. They also secured a 2-0 KNVB Beker win over TOP Oss, showing they can still impose themselves when given space to dictate play. Off the pitch, Utrecht have been highlighted in discussions about their Europa League campaign, including a tough loss to Nottingham Forest and a competitive showing against Real Betis.

The tactical contrast between these two sides promises a compelling encounter. Nijmegen’s recent matches suggest a team comfortable in transition, often relying on quick combinations and decisive finishing from Ogawa and Linssen. Utrecht, under Ron Jans, have leaned on structure and midfield discipline, though their defensive line has shown vulnerability when pressed aggressively. Both teams have been involved in several high-scoring or tightly contested matches recently, and their respective form guides indicate neither is likely to sit back. With Nijmegen’s home advantage and Utrecht’s inconsistency away from home, the momentum appears to tilt slightly toward the hosts.

Considering the recent performances, squad news, and the rhythm both teams bring into this fixture, the expectation is for a match with clear attacking phases and defensive lapses on both sides. Nijmegen’s sharper edge in the final third and their ability to sustain pressure at home make them the more likely side to dictate the tempo. Utrecht’s resilience should still earn them a breakthrough, but the balance of play suggests a decisive outcome. For this preview, the projected correct score is 3-1 in favor of NEC Nijmegen.

• Summary: NEC Nijmegen is going head to head with FC Utrecht starting on 9 Jan 2026 at 19:00 UTC at Stadion de Goffert stadium, Nijmegen city, Netherlands. The match is a part of the VriendenLoterij Eredivisie .
• Nijmegen Feedinco Rating: 6.92
• Utrecht Feedinco Rating: 6.88