AZ Alkmaar are currently sitting in ninth place in the Dutch Eredivisie with four points from two games following a 2-2 draw away to Groningen[1][6][8]. They are set to face NAC Breda on August 31, 2025, in a matchday four clash at the Rat Verleigh Stadion[1]. AZ come off the back of a strong European performance, having defeated Levski Sofia 4-1 at home in the second leg of their UEFA Conference League playoff, completing a 6-1 aggregate win and securing their place in the main phase of the competition[1][2][6]. Ibrahim Sadiq starred with a first-half brace, while Mexx Meerdink and Lequincio Zeefuik contributed goals as well[1].
Recent team news highlights the uncertainty around striker Troy Parrott, who suffered an injury in training ahead of the decisive Conference League clash against Levski Sofia. Parrott has been remarkably productive, scoring nine goals in seven appearances across Eredivisie and Conference League matches this season. Despite his doubts, manager Maarten Martens is confident in the squad’s depth, praising Meerdink as an alternative up front[3].
Transfer market activity has also been notable, with Ernest Poku departing AZ Alkmaar for Bayer Leverkusen earlier in August[7]. In another development, Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring AZ’s young talent Kees Smit after his performance in the Netherlands’ U19 European Championship team[7].
References
- [1] NAC vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction and Betting Tips – Sportskeeda
- [2] AZ Alkmaar 2025 Results – ESPN
- [3] Parrott Doubtful for Decisive Conference League Return Leg – OneFootball
- [6] 2025–26 AZ Alkmaar season – Wikipedia
- [7] AZ Alkmaar Team News – Fox Sports
- [8] 2025-26 Dutch Eredivisie Standings – ESPN