Groningen vs AZ Alkmaar Result

Eredivisie · Netherlands

Groningen

3 - 0

Full Time

AZ Alkmaar

📍 Euroborg, Groningen

🗓️ Sunday, 22 Mar 2026 at 15:45

😅 AI Prediction Report

CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

Predicted

1 - 2

⚡

Actual

3 - 0

❌Result

❌BTTS

❌O/U 2.5

❌Score

💰 Bet Results1/3 hit

over_under_2_5 — over@ 3.35

+£235✅

btts — yes@ 3.3

-£100❌

1x2 — away@ 1.85

-£100❌

Estimated ROI (£100/bet)

Staked: £300 · Returns: £335

+£35

+12% ROI

Groningen Stun AZ Alkmaar with Clinical 3-0 Home Triumph

Groningen produced a statement performance at the Euroborg, dispatching AZ Alkmaar 3-0 in a match where their efficiency in front of goal and defensive discipline shone through. Despite AZ edging possession with 53% and firing 16 shots (7 on target), it was the hosts who struck first, with Thom van Bergen opening the scoring in the 36th minute. Groningen then doubled their lead through Tygo Land after the break, before David van der Werff sealed the result with a third in the 76th minute. AZ Alkmaar struggled to convert their territorial advantage and attacking intent into goals, being repeatedly denied by Hidde Jurjus and a resolute Groningen backline. Groningen, meanwhile, made the most of their opportunities, punishing AZ on the break and from set pieces, and ultimately running out deserved winners in front of a jubilant home crowd.

Groningen

8.5/10

Groningen delivered a near-flawless display, blending defensive solidity with sharp attacking transitions. They were clinical with their chances, converting 3 of their 5 shots on target, and showed great organization in their 4-4-2 setup. The midfield quartet worked tirelessly to disrupt AZ's rhythm, while the front two capitalized on key moments to put the game beyond reach.

Key Players

Thom van Bergen: Opened the scoring in the 36th minute, setting the tone for Groningen's victory.

Tygo Land: Scored the crucial second goal to give Groningen breathing room.

David van der Werff: Sealed the win with a composed finish for the third goal.

Hidde Jurjus: Made several important saves to keep a clean sheet against 7 shots on target.

Strengths

Clinical finishingDefensive organizationEffective transitions

Weaknesses

Conceded possessionCommitted 16 fouls, risking disciplinary issues

AZ Alkmaar

5/10

AZ Alkmaar controlled possession and created a high number of chances, but lacked the cutting edge required to break down Groningen's defense. Their 4-2-3-1 formation allowed for fluid movement in midfield, but the final ball and finishing let them down. Defensively, they were exposed on the counter and from set pieces, ultimately conceding three times despite having more of the ball.

Key Players

Troy Parrott: Led the line and was involved in several attacking moves, but couldn't find the net.

Jeroen Zoet: Made a few key stops but was left exposed by his defense on all three goals.

Peer Koopmeiners: Worked hard in midfield to control possession and dictate tempo.

Strengths

Dominated possessionCreated more shots and corners

Weaknesses

Poor finishingDefensive vulnerability on transitionsStruggled to deal with Groningen's direct attacks

Key Moments

36' — Goal

Thom van Bergen opens the scoring for Groningen, finishing a swift attacking move.

58' — Goal

Tygo Land doubles Groningen's lead with a well-taken effort.

76' — Goal

David van der Werff puts the result beyond doubt with Groningen's third goal.

45' — Yellow Card

Groningen pick up a yellow card as their aggressive approach starts to show.

67' — Yellow Card

AZ Alkmaar receive a yellow card as frustration mounts.

Tactical Analysis

Groningen's 4-4-2 provided a solid defensive base, with the midfield four working in tandem to shield the backline and spring quick counters. Their shape remained compact, frustrating AZ's attempts to play through the lines. When in possession, Groningen looked to exploit the channels and get their forwards in behind AZ's high line. AZ Alkmaar's 4-2-3-1 focused on controlling the midfield and stretching play with width, but their inability to penetrate the final third effectively left them vulnerable. As they pushed forward, gaps appeared in their defensive structure, which Groningen exploited ruthlessly. Set piece defending was also an issue for AZ, as Groningen capitalized on these situations.

Turning Point

Tygo Land's goal in the 58th minute gave Groningen a two-goal cushion and forced AZ to chase the game, leaving themselves exposed at the back.

Man of the Match

Thom van Bergen

Opened the scoring and was a constant threat, setting the tone for Groningen's attacking display.