AZ Alkmaar vs Feyenoord
Eredivisie
Sunday
4th February 2024
AFAS Stadion
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Eredivisie fixture between AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord.
AZ Alkmaar vs Feyenoord: Preview
AZ Alkmaar form analysis
AZ’s inconsistent form continued over this spell. Despite beating Almere 4-1 behind Pavlidis’s brace helped by late goals from De Wit & Møller Wolfe after going behind, a major reality check followed in 4-0 thrashing away to PSV as AZ’s defense was blown apart from the first whistle. Their struggles continued after conceding an early opener to Ugalde at home before slumping to 2-1 defeat by Twente, lacking emergency response once chasing the game. Signs of life followed during a close 2-2 home draw against PEC Zwolle, Pavlidis’ penalty sparking comeback from Thy’s opener but still proved too little too late as defensive lapses remained.
This fragility resurfaced away to Heerenveen last game despite Pavlidis putting them ahead early. And despite equalizing late through a fortunate own goal, surrendering control of the game after failing to push on having led yet again highlighted lingering issues. So while Pavlidis’ goals provide regular threat spearheading attack, Pascal Jansen must address recurring loss of intensity in games allowing leads to slip if AZ are to live up to preseason top three expectations.
Feyenoord form analysis
After beginning this run with a solid 3-1 home win over Volendam, Feyenoord’s form then showcased a scintillating attack capable of blowing opponents away. This was evident while cruising past Heracles 4-0 away from home, summer addition Stengs netting twice in first half domination before late goals put gloss on scoreline. Feyenoord continued showcasing vibrant threat during entertaining 2-2 home draw with NEC – surrendering control of exciting game after stylish goals from wing duo Dilrosun and Gimenez.
But their attacking quality shone through again to win 2-1 away at Vitesse next match. Despite slack set piece defending allowing shortlived parity after Geertruida’s opener, Lingr pounced late to complete comeback sealing impressive victory. However chances dried up during dour goalless home draw against Twente last time out. So while Slot’s offensive talent make Feyenoord clinical frontrunners in Eredivisie’s European hunt. Shoring up defensive vulnerabilities remains vital to channel scoring power towards a sustained title push rather than interchangeable results week-to-week.
