The upcoming Eredivisie clash between PEC Zwolle and AZ Alkmaar promises to be an intriguing encounter as both sides look to strengthen their positions in the league table. Scheduled for January 17 at the Mac3Park Stadion, this fixture brings together two teams with contrasting ambitions but similar defensive concerns. PEC Zwolle, currently 13th, are eager to find consistency after a turbulent run of results, while fifth-placed AZ aim to maintain their push toward the top spots following a resounding win in their last outing.

PEC Zwolle’s Recent Form and Key Stats

PEC Zwolle enter this match with a mixed record, having collected just one victory in their last five games across all competitions. Their most recent result, a 1-1 draw against FC Twente on January 10, showed some resilience but also highlighted ongoing defensive vulnerabilities. Heavy defeats such as the 6-1 loss to Feyenoord and a 2-1 setback at Excelsior underline the issues at the back that have plagued the team throughout the season.

In the Eredivisie, PEC’s campaign has been defined by inconsistency: 5 wins, 5 draws, and 8 defeats, with an average of 1.2 goals scored and 2.2 conceded per match. Despite these struggles, the team has shown attacking persistence, having scored in each of their last 12 matches. Their home performances have also featured strong starts, with PEC leading at half time in their last four home fixtures. Matches involving Zwolle tend to be lively early on, as over 0.5 goals at half time have been recorded in 20 of their last 22 games.

Given their defensive fragility, PEC are expected to adopt a cautious approach in front of their fans, focusing on avoiding early mistakes while seeking to exploit counterattacking opportunities. The home side’s ability to maintain composure under pressure will be crucial if they are to challenge a technically superior opponent like AZ.

AZ Alkmaar’s Recent Form and Key Stats

AZ Alkmaar arrive in Zwolle on the back of a confidence-boosting 6-0 victory over Ajax on January 14, a result that reaffirmed their attacking potential after a period of inconsistency. Over their last five matches, AZ have recorded 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 defeat, averaging 2.6 goals scored and 0.8 conceded per game. Their season record in the Eredivisie stands at 8 wins, 4 draws, and 5 losses, with an average of 1.9 goals scored and 1.7 conceded.

AZ’s attacking consistency has been remarkable, with at least one goal scored in 23 of their last 24 league matches. Their games also tend to open up after the break, as over 0.5 goals in the second half have been recorded in 23 of their last 25 Eredivisie fixtures. Despite their offensive strength, defensive lapses have occasionally cost them points, as seen in their 4-3 defeat to Fortuna Sittard earlier this season.

Historically, AZ have dominated this matchup, winning three and drawing two of the last five meetings with PEC Zwolle, including a 3-1 away victory in the KNVB Cup on December 3, 2025. Their superior attacking depth and recent form make them favorites, but maintaining defensive discipline will be key to avoiding another slip-up on the road.

PEC Zwolle vs AZ Alkmaar Analysis and Prediction

This fixture brings together two sides that have struggled for defensive stability but rarely fail to entertain. PEC Zwolle’s home advantage and tendency to start strongly could make the opening stages competitive, yet AZ’s attacking firepower and recent momentum suggest they will create plenty of chances. Both teams have shown a consistent ability to find the net, and their previous encounters have often produced multiple goals.

Given the statistical trends — PEC scoring in 12 consecutive matches and AZ doing so in 23 of their last 24 — the likelihood of both sides getting on the scoresheet is high. The visitors’ superior quality in attack may ultimately tilt the balance in their favor, but PEC’s fighting spirit at home should ensure a lively contest.

PEC Zwolle vs AZ Alkmaar prediction from BetMines: Both Teams To Score (Yes) with 60% probability.