Match Overview
The upcoming Eredivisie match between NEC and AZ is a pivotal fixture in the current season. NEC, playing at home, will look to leverage their familiarity with the Goffertstadion to secure a win against a formidable AZ side. This match holds significant importance as both teams aim to climb the league table and secure a favorable position.
Odds Analysis
The average odds for this match are as follows: NEC at 3.05, Draw at 3.42, and AZ at 2.02. These odds suggest that AZ is the favorite to win, with a probability of approximately 49.5%. NEC has a 32.8% chance of winning, while the likelihood of a draw stands at 29.2%. Given AZ's stronger form and higher odds, they are expected to edge out NEC in this encounter.
Team Analysis
NEC
- Current Form: NEC has shown a mixed form this season, with an average of 1.42 goals per match and a possession rate of 50.04%.
- Strengths: NEC's ability to maintain possession and their dribbling skills, averaging 22.46 dribbles per match, are key strengths.
- Weaknesses: Their defense has been vulnerable, conceding an average of 1.42 goals per match.
AZ
- Current Form: AZ has been impressive, scoring an average of 1.67 goals per match and maintaining a possession rate of 52.13%.
- Strengths: AZ's offensive capabilities, with 13.71 shots per match, and their solid defense, conceding only 1 goal per match.
- Weaknesses: AZ's discipline could be a concern, with an average of 1.63 yellow cards per match.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically, AZ has had the upper hand in encounters with NEC, often dominating possession and creating more goal-scoring opportunities.
Tactical Approaches
NEC is likely to focus on a possession-based game, utilizing their dribbling skills to break down AZ's defense. AZ, on the other hand, will aim to exploit NEC's defensive frailties with their attacking prowess.
Key Players Spotlight
NEC
- Koki Ogawa: With 7 goals this season, Ogawa is NEC's top scorer and a crucial player in their attacking setup.
- Calvin Verdonk: A key figure in defense, Verdonk's performance will be vital in containing AZ's forwards.
AZ
- Troy Parrott: Leading AZ's scoring charts with 12 goals, Parrott's form will be instrumental in AZ's attacking strategy.
- Sven Mijnans: A versatile player, Mijnans contributes both in attack and defense, making him a key asset for AZ.
Statistical Deep Dive
Offensive Metrics
- NEC: Averaging 11.58 shots per match, with 4.5 on target.
- AZ: Averaging 13.71 shots per match, with 5.21 on target.
Defensive Metrics
- NEC: Conceding 1.42 goals per match, with 3.63 goalkeeper saves.
- AZ: Conceding 1 goal per match, with 1.92 goalkeeper saves.
Possession and Passing
- NEC: 425.71 passes per match, with a success rate of 82.9%.
- AZ: 481 passes per match, with a success rate of 84%.
Prediction and Conclusion
Based on the data and analysis, AZ is favored to win this match due to their superior form and offensive capabilities. Key factors such as Troy Parrott's goal-scoring prowess and AZ's solid defense could be decisive.
Final Score Prediction: AZ 2-1 NEC Half Time Score Prediction: AZ 1-0 NEC Both Teams to Score Probability: 55% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 58%
In conclusion, while NEC will put up a strong fight, AZ's overall quality and tactical approach are likely to secure them a victory in this crucial Eredivisie clash.