The upcoming Eredivisie clash between Heracles Almelo and Excelsior promises to be a tense and potentially decisive encounter in the battle to avoid relegation. Taking place on March 20 at the Erve Asito, this fixture brings together two sides struggling at the bottom of the table — Heracles currently sit 18th, while Excelsior occupy 15th place. Both teams have endured difficult runs of form, and with the season entering its final stretch, every point now carries enormous weight.

Heracles Almelo’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Heracles Almelo enter this match in a worrying state, having lost four of their last five Eredivisie games and conceding heavily in the process. Their most recent outing ended in a 4-0 defeat against AZ on March 15, a result that underlined their defensive fragility. Over the last six matches, they have managed just one draw and five defeats, scoring an average of only 0.2 goals per game while conceding 2.4. The numbers tell a clear story of a side struggling to find balance and confidence.

Across the season, Heracles have recorded 5 wins, 3 draws, and 19 losses, with an average of 1.2 goals scored and 2.6 conceded per match. Their defensive issues are persistent — at least one goal has been conceded in 22 of their last 23 matches, and in 19 of their last 20 Eredivisie fixtures. Matches involving Heracles tend to be open and high-scoring: over 1.5 goals have been recorded in 33 of their last 35 games, and over 0.5 goals in the second half in 34 of the last 36. These trends suggest that even when Heracles struggle to win, their games rarely lack action.

At home, the supporters at the Erve Asito have witnessed both frustration and fleeting hope. The team’s inability to maintain defensive discipline has often overshadowed their attacking efforts. Losing at half time in seven of their last ten Eredivisie matches further highlights their tendency to start slowly and chase games from behind. For Heracles, this fixture represents not only a chance to earn vital points but also to restore some pride in front of their fans.

Excelsior’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Excelsior arrive in Almelo in similarly poor form, having lost each of their last five Eredivisie matches. Their latest defeat came on March 15, a 2-1 loss against Feyenoord, following another 2-1 setback at SC Heerenveen. Despite showing glimpses of attacking potential — averaging 0.8 goals scored per game in their last five — their defensive record remains a concern, with 1.8 goals conceded on average during that same period.

Over the course of the season, Excelsior’s record stands at 7 wins, 5 draws, and 15 losses, with 1.0 goals scored and 1.7 conceded per match. Away from home, their attacking output has been inconsistent, as under 0.5 goals have been scored in two of their last ten away fixtures. This inconsistency makes it difficult to predict which version of Excelsior will show up — the one capable of competing with stronger sides or the one that struggles to maintain defensive focus.

Nevertheless, Excelsior’s position just above the relegation zone means that this match could be pivotal. A victory in Almelo would not only halt their losing streak but also create valuable breathing space in the standings. The visitors will likely rely on their collective energy and the ability to exploit Heracles’ defensive weaknesses, aiming to turn their attacking chances into much-needed goals.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Overview

Historically, meetings between Heracles Almelo and Excelsior have often produced goals. In their last five encounters, Heracles have won twice while Excelsior have claimed three victories, with an average of 1.2 goals scored by Heracles and 2.4 conceded. The most recent head-to-head, played on November 8, 2025, ended 1-2 in favor of Excelsior, further emphasizing the visitors’ ability to perform well in this matchup.

Both teams share similar weaknesses — fragile defenses and inconsistent finishing — which could lead to another open contest. Heracles’ tendency to concede early and Excelsior’s struggles to hold onto leads suggest that momentum swings are likely. Given that over 1.5 goals have been scored in 30 of the last 32 Eredivisie matches involving Heracles, and considering both sides’ urgent need for points, a high-scoring affair appears probable.

For Heracles, the key will be to tighten their back line and avoid the lapses that have cost them repeatedly this season. Excelsior, on the other hand, must find a way to convert their attacking intent into results while maintaining composure under pressure. The combination of desperation, open play, and defensive vulnerability on both sides sets the stage for a dramatic encounter.

Heracles Almelo vs Excelsior Prediction

All indicators point toward a match filled with goals and tension. Both teams have been conceding regularly, and their recent form suggests that clean sheets are unlikely. The statistical trends — particularly Heracles’ involvement in high-scoring games and Excelsior’s defensive instability — reinforce the expectation of an open contest.

Heracles Almelo vs Excelsior prediction from BetMines: Over 2.5 goals with 57% probability.