PEC Zwolle — Go Ahead Eagles : Match Preview and Prediction for September 21,2025

Zwolle’s Recent Form and Tactical Approach

Yes, they lost 1-3 in Amsterdam. But those who watched the game would understand. The second half belonged to Zwolle. Ajax literally narrowly avoided dropping points. Henry van der Vegt’s team has improved, especially with Zico Buurmeester coming onto the field. He himself states that if the team carries their second-half performance into the match against the Eagles, they will get a result.

Key Strengths: Counter-Attacks and Interceptions

Buurmeester, incidentally, clearly identified the opponent’s weakness. Zwolle can cause problems in transitional phases, exploiting space in their defense. These are not empty words but a sober assessment. Statistics confirm this: the team leads the league in goals from counter-attacks and ranks second in interceptions.

Home Form and Team Cohesion

Before the Ajax game, there was a 0-2 home defeat to Utrecht, which ended a run of 10 home matches with goals scored. However, the situation is different now. Newcomers, as the coaching staff notes, are integrating better into the squad, and the training level is improving. For Zwolle, this is the IJsselderby – the most important game of the year – and they are preparing for it with undivided focus.

Focus on European Ambitions

All thoughts of the “Eagles” are not in Zwolle right now. They are in Europe. Next Thursday, they are set to play in the Europa League against Steaua Bucharest (FCSB). The entire club is living for this event. Work is bustling at the “De Adelaarshorst” stadium: UEFA equipment is being installed, vans are driving around, and Polish technicians are at work.

Distraction and Squad Rotation Concerns

Coach Melvin Boel, of course, states that all concentration is on the derby. But these are standard protocol statements. The fact is that players cannot help but think about a match that is historic for the club. And there’s every chance that some players will subconsciously hold back to avoid injury before the European competition. Especially since their opponent, FCSB, is in deep crisis, with 8 matches without a win, so their chances of success in Europe are high.

Away Form and Defensive Vulnerabilities

Yes, there was a confident 3-0 victory over Volendam. But that was at home. On the road, the picture is different. Away games are a “pain point” for the Eagles. Their last two away games ended in 2-2 draws, and the press directly indicates that the team is vulnerable in defense, especially away from their home stadium. Furthermore, injured Julius Dirksen and Søren Tengstedt will not participate in the derby.