NETHERLANDS: Eredivisie – Matchday 19
Analysis
Team Statistics
- FC Utrecht:
- They have been performing consistently in the Eredivisie, currently sitting in third place, just three points behind Ajax.
- The team is characterized by solid defense and dominance in midfield (e.g., 55% possession in some winning matches).
- At home, however, their performance has been inconsistent, winning only one of their last five home games.
- Sebastien Haller’s form is improving, having scored two goals in the recent match against RKC Waalwijk.
- AZ Alkmaar:
- They started the season extremely strong (6 wins in their first 7 matches), but fell off slightly before bouncing back into form.
- In their last 12 matches, they have secured 8 wins and 3 draws.
- Their away form has been improving, as they have delivered strong performances in recent away matches.
- Troy Parrott is a standout attacker, having scored 10 goals so far this season.
Player Statistics
- Utrecht Players:
- Haller’s quick adaptation could provide a boost to the team’s attacking play.
- Paxten Aaronson, despite his young age, has been a key player, with 5 goals and 2 assists.
- Their defensive foundation is Mike van der Hoorn, who wins aerial duels at a high rate (68.3%).
- AZ Players:
- Sven Mijnans and Peer Koopmeiners have been outstanding in midfield, with Mijnans posting a 10.4 xG+/- stat.
- Troy Parrott’s goal-scoring ability could make the difference, especially with his performance away from home.
- David Møller Wolfe is useful in both defense and attacking play, having registered 4 assists.
Trend Numbers and Correlations
- Both teams have strong attacking play, as evidenced by the fact that both teams have scored in each of their last 8 head-to-head meetings.
- Utrecht’s home form could be a weak point, especially under the pressure of their home crowd.
Low-Risk Tips
- Both teams to score: (Probability: 59%), based on their previous head-to-head matches.
Odds: 1.59 – Kelly: 2%
- Over 2.5 goals: Based on the statistics, it is likely that at least three goals will be scored (Probability: 56.4%).
1.71 – Kelly: 2%
Interesting and Surprising Facts
- Sebastien Haller’s Impact: He has made an immediate impact, stabilizing Utrecht’s attack with his goals.
- AZ Alkmaar’s Changing Form: Despite a drop in form early in the season, they have been reliably performing as of late.
- High xG for Both Teams: Utrecht has posted an xG between 1.3 and 1.9 in their recent winning matches, while AZ has been dominant with an xG over 2.