Sparta Rotterdam vs AZ
Eredivisie
Saturday
2nd March 2024
Sparta-Stadion
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Eredivisie fixture between Sparta Rotterdam and AZ.
Sparta Rotterdam vs AZ: Preview
Sparta Rotterdam form analysis
Kasteelheren’s recent form shows a team struggling for consistency and results. On January 27th, they conceded a late equalizer against RKC Waalwijk to draw 1-1, reflecting defensive fragility. This continued into a poor performance on February 4th as they fell 2-0 at home against PEC Zwolle. Goals from Lam and Van den Berg condemned Sparta to a disappointing defeat. These back-to-back winless games highlighted weaknesses at both ends of the pitch. There was a slight upturn on February 12th away to Feyenoord, though they ultimately lost 2-0 with Hancko and Geertruida on target. Sparta competed well for stretches and were unfortunate not to score.
However, defensive issues persisted as they conceded from set pieces. Their best recent performance came on February 17th when they beat local rivals Excelsior 4-2 in a thriller. Despite going 2-0 down early on, Sparta showed great spirit to score four unanswered goals and claim the derby spoils. Verschueren, Lauritsen and Brym led the comeback. However, they were unable to build momentum from this result, losing 2-0 away to NEC on February 25th after goals from Proper and Verdonk. Overall, Sparta’s form paints an inconsistent picture with problems in defense and attack. Addressing these fluctuating performances will be key if they are to avoid falling back.
AZ form analysis
AZ’s recent form paints the picture of a consistently solid team capable of grinding out results, but one lacking a cutting edge in attack. On January 28th, they twice blew leads away to Heerenveen to draw 2-2, despite goals from Pavlidis and a fortunate Bochniewicz own goal. Pavlidis was on target again away to league leaders Feyenoord on February 4th, but AZ fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat after failing to capitalize on their chances. This lack of ruthlessness continued on February 11th as AZ were held to a goalless draw by second-tier side Almere City in the cup, underlying issues in attack.
There were some positive signs on February 17th however as AZ came from behind to beat Fortuna Sittard 2-1 thanks to goals from Pavlidis and a last gasp de Wit winner. Yet their best performance came in stunning league leaders Ajax 2-0 at home on February 25th. Goals from captain Van Bommel gave AZ a statement victory built on defensive solidarity and clinical finishing. Overall, AZ’s form suggests they are a well-organized, resilient unit, evidenced by recent wins despite missing key attackers like Evjen. However, continuing to sharpen their attacking play will be vital to sustain their position.
