đź“… Date: 27/02/2025
⏰ Kick-off: 20:00 (CET)
🏟️ Venue: Erve Asito, Almelo, Netherlands
Match Overview
In this exciting KNVB Cup quarter-final, Heracles Almelo will take on AZ Alkmaar at the Erve Asito. While both teams have been competitive in the Eredivisie this season, this cup tie will be a big opportunity for both sides. AZ Alkmaar enters the match as favorites, but Heracles, especially with their home advantage, has the potential to surprise.
Team Form and Analysis
Heracles Almelo’s Current Form
Heracles Almelo has been inconsistent this season but remains a dangerous side, particularly at home. Their cup run has been impressive so far, and they’ll be looking to continue their journey in front of their passionate supporters.
Strengths:
- Strong at home
- Direct attacking play
- Set-piece threats
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerable in defense, particularly against quicker, more technical sides
Key Players:
- Jari Vlak: The Heracles captain is vital in midfield, known for his leadership and game control.
- Marten de Roon: His work rate and attacking contributions make him a key threat in this match.
- Samuel Armenteros: The Swedish forward is a key attacking outlet, capable of holding up the ball and finishing chances.
Heracles will likely set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to absorb pressure and hit AZ Alkmaar on the counter-attack with pace.
AZ Alkmaar’s Current Form
AZ Alkmaar, under the management of Pascal Jansen, has been in strong form this season and is one of the Eredivisie’s top teams. With their eye on a potential domestic cup triumph, AZ will approach this match with confidence.
Strengths:
- High pressing game
- Technical play
- Offensive depth
Weaknesses:
- Defensive lapses when under pressure, particularly against physical teams
Key Players:
- Vangelis Pavlidis: The Greek striker has been one of AZ’s standout players, with clinical finishing and playmaking abilities.
- Oussama Idrissi: The winger’s pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat down the left side.
- Jordy Clasie: As the midfield general, Clasie will need to dictate the tempo and control possession to break down Heracles’ defense.
AZ will most likely play in a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on possession and looking to wear down Heracles with their superior technical ability and high pressing.
Head-to-Head Record
In recent meetings, AZ Alkmaar has had the upper hand over Heracles Almelo, with most of the victories coming in the Eredivisie. However, cup ties often produce surprises, and Heracles has been known to cause upsets in this competition. Last season, AZ won 2-0 in the league, but Heracles has shown they can be competitive at home.
Tactics and Game Plan
Heracles’ Approach:
Expect Heracles Almelo to adopt a solid defensive shape in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on frustrating AZ Alkmaar with a low-block defense. They will aim to absorb pressure and hit AZ on the counter, with Armenteros and de Roon key to exploiting spaces in AZ’s high defensive line.
AZ Alkmaar’s Approach:
AZ Alkmaar will look to dominate possession with a 4-3-3 formation, pressing high up the field to win the ball back quickly. Their attacking trio of Pavlidis, Idrissi, and Reijnders will look to break down Heracles’ defense with quick passes and fluid movement. AZ will use their width to stretch Heracles and create overloads in wide areas.
Key Battle:
Heracles’ defense vs. AZ’s attack — The home side will need to contain the movement and technical quality of Pavlidis and Idrissi, who can unlock defenses with their pace and creativity.
Weather and Pitch Conditions
Venue: Erve Asito is known for its tight atmosphere and the home advantage it provides for Heracles.
Weather: The weather is expected to be cold with some rain — typical for February in the Netherlands. The pitch should be in good condition, though heavy rain could slow the pace of the game.
Match Prediction
Prediction: Heracles Almelo 1-3 AZ Alkmaar
Goal Scorers:
- Heracles: Samuel Armenteros (35’)
- AZ Alkmaar: Vangelis Pavlidis (17’), Oussama Idrissi (50’), Jordy Clasie (73’)
Reasoning:
- AZ Alkmaar’s technical superiority: AZ’s squad depth and ability to control possession should give them the upper hand in this match.
- Heracles’ resilience: While they’ll fight hard at home, their defensive vulnerabilities, particularly against quick attackers like Pavlidis and Idrissi, could be their undoing.
- AZ’s offensive depth: With multiple goal-scoring threats in their squad, AZ should have enough firepower to overcome Heracles, despite a tough challenge.