AZ Alkmaar will look to start their season strongly by leveraging their disciplined possession game and attacking options. Groningen, known for their resilient counter-attacks, might aim to exploit AZ’s high line, but their previous struggles at Alkmaar’s home ground could make this a tough fixture.
Check out our complete thoughts below.
These are our top betting tips and predictions for the match.
AZ Alkmaar is favored at -1.00 in the Asian Handicap, reflecting their recent form and home advantage. Groningen’s resilience could help them keep the match close, but the line indicates AZ's likelihood to win convincingly.
Both AZ Alkmaar and Groningen have shown they can score in their recent encounters, so BTTS (Both Teams To Score) is a viable betting option.
The over/under line is usually set around 2.5 goals. Given the recent scoring patterns, an over 2.5 goals bet offers a solid chance, especially considering AZ's attacking strength.
AZ Alkmaar typically starts strong and often leads at halftime, which increases their chances of closing out the game with a win. Groningen may try to rally after halftime but will find it difficult to overturn the odds.
AZ Alkmaar is expected to open their season with a victory against Groningen at the AFAS Stadion on August 10, 2025. Based on recent form, head-to-head records, and home advantage, AZ is strongly favored to secure the win. Groningen will need to maximize their counter-attacking options to challenge AZ.
Historically, AZ Alkmaar has enjoyed a significant upper hand in the head-to-head record against Groningen, winning approximately 93% of the last encounters including recent fixtures where they scored multiple goals.
Currently, there are no significant injury concerns for either AZ Alkmaar or Groningen ahead of this match, allowing both teams to field their preferred lineups.
Expected lineups feature AZ Alkmaar deploying a possession-oriented 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on control through midfield. Groningen might opt for a 4-3-3, emphasizing pressing and counter-attacking, which could create a dynamic clash on the pitch.
AZ Alkmaar has maintained a solid form at home, with recent wins and high-scoring matches. Groningen’s form remains untested after a lengthy break, but historically, they are capable of causing surprises.
See below all the main information for this match.
AZ Alkmaar has been the more consistent side historically and has demonstrated a strong home record. Groningen, however, has shown resilience away from home, making this fixture unpredictable. Expect AZ to push for an advantage, but Groningen will be eager to disrupt their rhythm.
AZ Alkmaar tends to perform well at home, especially in recent encounters where they've secured multiple wins. Groningen has had mixed results, but their recent performances show a capacity for surprising opponents, particularly with counter-attacking strategies.
Key injuries may impact both teams’ tactical flexibility, but currently, both squads are relatively intact for this opener. AZ's strong squad depth might give them an edge, especially in midfield control.
This match is expected to be tight, with a slight edge to AZ Alkmaar based on recent head-to-head dominance and home advantage. The prediction is a win for AZ, but a draw remains a plausible outcome given Groningen's resilience.
