Jong AZ vs Almere City Prediction & Betting Tips (26 January)

Jong AZ approach this clash with a mixture of ambition and frustration after a turbulent stretch over the past two months. Their recent form has been inconsistent, highlighted by a heavy 1-4 home defeat to Jong FC Utrecht and a narrow 1-2 loss against Jong Ajax. Yet they also showed resilience in a spirited 3-2 win away at Roda JC Kerkrade, proving they can trouble stronger opponents when their attacking rhythm clicks. Squad updates have been relatively stable, though the team continues to rely heavily on young talents adapting to the physical demands of the Eerste Divisie. With their home ground at the AFAS Trainingscomplex set to host this fixture, Jong AZ will be eager to correct their defensive lapses and rediscover the sharpness that defined their better performances.

Almere City, meanwhile, enter the encounter with a more confident trajectory, having pieced together several encouraging results in recent weeks. Their past two months have included a commanding 2-0 victory over De Graafschap, a thrilling 4-2 win against FC Emmen, and a gritty 3-2 triumph away at Jong PSV. Even in defeat, such as the 1-3 setback versus Telstar, Almere City have shown attacking intent and a willingness to push forward in numbers. The squad has remained competitive and energetic, with no major disruptions reported recently. Their ability to transition quickly from midfield to attack has been a defining feature of their improved form, and they will look to exploit any defensive uncertainty from Jong AZ.

The historical meetings between these sides have often produced open, high-tempo football, and the upcoming match promises a similar dynamic. Jong AZ’s youthful squad tends to thrive in matches where space opens up, but their defensive structure has been exposed repeatedly in recent outings. Almere City, on the other hand, have demonstrated a more balanced approach, combining disciplined pressing with decisive finishing in the final third. With both teams having played multiple high-scoring matches in the past two months, the stage is set for another lively contest. The tactical battle may hinge on whether Jong AZ can withstand Almere’s pressure long enough to impose their own rhythm.

Taking all recent performances into account, Almere City appear to hold the upper hand, especially given their sharper form and more reliable finishing. Jong AZ will certainly have moments of promise, but their defensive vulnerabilities could again prove costly against a side that has shown consistent attacking threat. Considering the momentum and the patterns seen in their latest matches, the most reasonable expectation points toward a decisive outcome. Therefore, the predicted correct score for this match is 1 : 3.