Excelsior vs AZ Alkmaar Result
Eredivisie · Netherlands
Excelsior
Full Time
AZ Alkmaar
📍 Stadion Woudestein, Rotterdam
🗓️ Saturday, 14 Feb 2026 at 17:45
AZ Alkmaar Stun Excelsior with Dramatic Late Double in Rotterdam
AZ Alkmaar produced a stunning late turnaround to claim a 2-1 victory over Excelsior at Stadion Woudestein, scoring twice in stoppage time after trailing for almost the entire second half. Excelsior had taken a deserved lead just before the break, but were ultimately undone by AZ's relentless pressure and clinical finishing in the dying moments. The hosts looked set to secure a hard-fought win, having defended resolutely and threatened on the break. However, AZ's persistence paid off as they found the net twice in the 90th minute, snatching all three points and leaving Excelsior shell-shocked at the final whistle. The result keeps AZ's European ambitions alive, while Excelsior are left to rue missed opportunities and a dramatic collapse.
Excelsior
Excelsior put in a disciplined display for much of the match, frustrating AZ with a compact 4-3-3 shape and taking the lead just before halftime. They managed 11 shots, though only 2 were on target, and looked to protect their advantage with organized defending and quick transitions. Despite conceding more possession (45%), Excelsior were effective in limiting clear chances for much of the game. However, their inability to maintain focus in the closing stages proved costly, as AZ's late surge overwhelmed them. The single yellow card reflected their controlled aggression, but lapses in concentration at the death undid their earlier good work.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
AZ Alkmaar
AZ Alkmaar controlled much of the match, enjoying 55% possession and registering 16 shots, 7 of which were on target. Their 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to dominate midfield and create sustained pressure, especially in the second half as they chased the game. Despite falling behind late in the first half, AZ remained patient and gradually increased the tempo. Their persistence was rewarded with two dramatic goals in the 90th minute, turning the match on its head. AZ's ability to keep their composure and execute under pressure was the difference, as they capitalized on Excelsior's late defensive lapses.
Key Players
Strengths
Weaknesses
Key Moments
45' — Goal
Gyan de Regt gives Excelsior the lead just before halftime.
90' — Goal
Jizz Hornkamp levels for AZ Alkmaar with a late equalizer.
90' — Goal
AZ Alkmaar complete the turnaround with a dramatic winner, assisted by Troy Parrott.
67' — Yellow Card
Excelsior pick up their only booking of the match.
72' — Yellow Card
AZ Alkmaar receive their second yellow card as they push for an equalizer.
Tactical Analysis
Excelsior set up in a 4-3-3, prioritizing defensive solidity and looking to hit AZ on the counter. Their midfield trio worked tirelessly to disrupt AZ's build-up play, while the front three pressed selectively to force turnovers. Set pieces were a notable weapon, as reflected by their 7 corners. AZ's 4-2-3-1 allowed them to dominate possession and control the tempo, with their double pivot recycling the ball and the attacking midfielders probing for gaps. As the match wore on, AZ committed more bodies forward, and their substitutions injected fresh energy, ultimately overwhelming Excelsior's tiring defense in the final moments.
Turning Point
The 90th minute, when AZ Alkmaar scored twice in quick succession, completely reversing the outcome and sealing a dramatic victory.
Man of the Match
Jizz Hornkamp
Scored the crucial equalizer and played a pivotal role in AZ's late comeback.