The upcoming Eerste Divisie clash between Helmond Sport and De Graafschap promises to be an intriguing encounter despite the apparent gap in the standings. Scheduled for Saturday, January 31, this fixture marks the 25th round of the Dutch second division. While De Graafschap sit comfortably in the upper part of the table, Helmond Sport are struggling near the bottom, yet both sides have shown inconsistent form in recent weeks, leaving the door open for a balanced contest.

Helmond Sport’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Helmond Sport currently occupy the 17th position in the Eerste Divisie, having collected 25 points from 23 matches. Their recent performances have been far from convincing, with no victories in their last five outings. During that stretch, they managed two draws — against Vitesse (2-2) and Willem II (2-2) — but suffered three heavy defeats, including a 4-0 loss to Jong PSV on January 26. On average, they have scored 1.4 goals per game while conceding 3.2 in that same period.

Across the season, Helmond Sport’s record stands at 7 wins, 4 draws, and 12 losses, with an average of 1.4 goals scored and 1.8 conceded per match. Their home ground has been a reliable source of entertainment: over 2.5 goals have been scored in each of their last nine home fixtures, and both teams have found the net in the second half in all of their last five home games. Moreover, at least one goal has been scored by Helmond Sport in their last 20 home matches, underlining their attacking persistence even when results have not gone their way.

• Over 0.5 goals at half time in the last 21 home matches.


• Over 1.5 total goals in 19 of the last 20 home fixtures.


• Helmond Sport have led at half time in 7 of their last 11 home games in the Eerste Divisie.

Despite their defensive frailties, the team’s ability to score consistently at home could make them a tricky opponent for De Graafschap, especially if they manage to strike early.

De Graafschap’s Recent Form and Key Stats

De Graafschap enter this match sitting fourth in the table with 38 points from 24 games. Their recent form, however, has been mixed. In their last five matches, they have recorded one win, one draw, and three defeats. The only victory came in a 3-2 away success against TOP Oss, while they lost to Roda JC (2-3), Almere City FC (2-0), and RKC Waalwijk (2-4). Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 home draw against FC Den Bosch on January 26.

Over the course of the season, De Graafschap have registered 11 wins, 5 draws, and 8 losses, averaging 1.9 goals scored and 1.7 conceded per match. Their games tend to be open and high-scoring: over 1.5 goals have been recorded in each of their last 22 matches, and at least one goal has been conceded in 26 of their last 27 league fixtures. Away from home, they have also been involved in goal-rich encounters, with over 1.5 goals scored in each of their last 12 away matches.

• Over 0.5 goals in the second half in 25 of their last 27 Eerste Divisie matches.


• Over 8.5 corners in each of their last 17 matches.


• At least one goal conceded in their last 18 away games.

While De Graafschap’s attack remains potent, their defensive record away from home is a concern. They have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last 16 away league matches, which could give Helmond Sport confidence to push forward.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

Historically, the meetings between these two sides have been competitive. In their last five head-to-head encounters, Helmond Sport have won twice, while De Graafschap have claimed three victories. The most recent clash ended 3-1 in favor of De Graafschap on November 21, 2025. On average, these fixtures produce plenty of goals, with Helmond Sport scoring 1.8 and conceding 2.4 per game in this matchup.

Given both teams’ current form and defensive vulnerabilities, another high-scoring affair seems likely. Helmond Sport’s home matches consistently deliver goals, while De Graafschap’s attacking approach often leaves them exposed at the back. The hosts will rely on their strong home scoring streak, whereas the visitors will look to exploit Helmond’s defensive lapses.

Both sides have struggled for consistency, and with neither defense particularly solid, a draw could be a realistic outcome. The balance of probabilities suggests that both teams will find the net, and the match could hinge on which side capitalizes better on their chances in front of goal.

Helmond Sport vs De Graafschap Prediction

Considering the statistical trends and recent performances, this fixture is expected to feature goals at both ends. Helmond Sport’s home scoring run and De Graafschap’s attacking efficiency point toward an open contest. However, with both teams showing defensive weaknesses, a share of the spoils remains a plausible scenario.

Helmond Sport vs De Graafschap prediction from BetMines: Draw (X) with 22% probability.