AZ Alkmaar — Feyenoord : Match Preview and Prediction for September 21,2025

AZ Alkmaar’s Attacking Philosophy

Maarten Martens’ team consistently embodies an attacking philosophy. Despite a significant summer overhaul and the sale of several key players, the club’s core identity remains intact: high pressure, dynamic movement, and a relentless focus on goal. Martens is currently forging a new offensive partnership, prominently featuring the club’s record-breaking Brazilian signing, Patati, who injects crucial speed and technical prowess into the squad.

Resilience in Attack: Overcoming Key Injuries

Indeed, the team has been dealt a blow with the injury to their primary striker, Troy Parrott. However, this hasn’t halted their formidable attacking engine. Young Mex Meerdink has stepped up to fill the void, already making his mark with crucial goals, including one in their recent clash against Heracles. The statistics from that game speak volumes: 25 shots on target and an Expected Goals (xG) figure of 2.60. These numbers underscore a team utterly dedicated to offensive play.

Defensive Vulnerabilities Amidst Rebuilding

It’s crucial to recognize that this squad’s rejuvenation and restructuring have left their mark on the defense. AZ has become more susceptible, with less experience in the team compared to last season, leading to costly errors. It’s no coincidence that in their last 6 home matches, at least 3 goals have consistently been scored, and in 12 out of their previous 16 games, the total has exceeded 2.5 goals. They play an open game, both scoring themselves and allowing opportunities for their opponents.

Feyenoord’s Dominant Start to the Season

The Rotterdam side is absolutely steamrolling through the season. Five victories in five rounds, with 11 goals scored, marks a truly commanding start from the league leaders. Robin van Persie’s squad boasts a formidable attacking lineup, spearheaded by Japanese striker Ayase Ueda, who already has 5 goals to his name. He is a genuine finisher, capable of converting even the slightest opportunity.

Collective Offensive Strength

However, it’s not solely about Ueda. Feyenoord’s true strength lies in its collective attacking prowess. Luciano Valente’s midfield creativity, the surging runs of Sem Steijn (who has also netted twice), and the return of the swift Anis Hadj Moussa after suspension make the Rotterdamers’ offense virtually unstoppable. In 4 out of 5 matches this season, they have scored at least twice, and in their last game against Fortuna, they unleashed 19 shots on goal.

Defensive Weaknesses and AZ’s Opportunity

Despite their minimal number of conceded goals, this statistic shouldn’t be entirely relied upon. In the upcoming match against AZ, Feyenoord’s defense will be significantly weakened. Injuries to key defenders like Gernot Trauner and Jordan Lotomba create noticeable vulnerabilities that AZ’s attack, particularly on home turf, should be able to exploit. AZ is adept at creating chances, and against the league leader’s compromised defense, they will have every opportunity to score.