The second round of the KNVB Cup brings an exciting clash between PEC Zwolle and AZ Alkmaar, two sides that already met earlier this season in the Eredivisie. That encounter ended in a 2-2 draw at the AFAS Stadion, with Koen Kostons emerging as the hero for PEC after scoring twice. This time, the tie moves to the MAC³PARK Stadion, where the hosts will look to capitalize on their recent good form and home advantage. Kick-off is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, at 20:00 local time.

PEC Zwolle’s Recent Form and Key Stats

PEC Zwolle have shown clear signs of improvement in recent weeks. After a difficult start to the Eredivisie campaign, the team has climbed away from the relegation zone thanks to a series of positive results. Their latest victory came on November 28, when they defeated SC Heerenveen 2-1 at home. In their last five matches, PEC have recorded three wins, one draw, and one defeat, averaging 2.2 goals scored and 2.4 conceded per game.

In the KNVB Cup, Zwolle have played one match so far, winning it convincingly with an average of 4.0 goals scored and 1.0 conceded. Their attacking play has been particularly effective, with Koen Kostons leading the way as the club’s top scorer with six goals and four assists. Kaj de Rooij has also been instrumental, contributing directly to eight goals this season. However, defensive issues remain a concern, as PEC have already conceded 30 goals in the Eredivisie — one of the highest tallies in the league.

Another interesting trend is that Over 0.5 goals have been scored in the first half of each of PEC Zwolle’s last ten matches, suggesting that their games tend to start with early action. The team’s attacking intent, combined with their defensive vulnerabilities, often leads to open and entertaining contests.

AZ Alkmaar’s Recent Form and Key Stats

AZ Alkmaar enter this cup fixture in a challenging moment. Once among the Eredivisie’s top contenders, the team has recently lost momentum, slipping away from the leading pack of Feyenoord and PSV. Their latest outing ended in a 1-0 defeat to FC Twente on November 30, marking their third consecutive loss. In their last five matches, AZ have managed just one win and suffered four defeats, scoring an average of 1.0 goal while conceding 2.4 per game.

Despite their recent struggles, AZ remain a dangerous side, particularly in attack. Troy Parrott has been their standout performer, scoring seven goals this season and becoming a key figure both domestically and internationally. Sven Mijnans has also been productive, contributing to eight goals (three scored and five assists), while Mexx Meerdink continues to provide depth with three goals and one assist.

In the KNVB Cup, AZ have been involved in high-scoring matches, with Over 1.5 goals recorded in each of their last 14 games in the competition. Moreover, Over 0.5 goals in the second half have been scored in 31 of their last 33 matches overall, underlining their tendency to produce late drama. The team has also found the net in 30 of their last 32 fixtures, showing that even during poor runs, their attack rarely goes silent.

PEC Zwolle vs AZ: Tactical Overview and Head-to-Head

Historically, AZ Alkmaar have dominated this fixture. In the last 29 meetings, they have won 17 times, drawn nine, and lost only three. The most recent encounter, played on September 24, ended in a 2-2 draw, a result that reflected the current balance between the two sides. PEC Zwolle last defeated AZ in April 2022, and since then, the Alkmaar side have generally had the upper hand.

However, current form suggests that this cup tie could be more evenly matched than in previous seasons. PEC Zwolle’s confidence is growing, especially at home, where they have recently beaten strong opposition. AZ, on the other hand, are struggling to find consistency and defensive stability. Their backline has conceded 22 goals in 14 Eredivisie matches, a figure that highlights their vulnerability under pressure.

Both teams have been involved in matches with plenty of goals this season — PEC Zwolle’s 14 league games have produced 48 goals in total, while AZ’s have also seen 48. Given these numbers, another high-scoring contest seems likely. The attacking talent on both sides, combined with defensive fragility, points toward an open and entertaining encounter.

PEC Zwolle vs AZ Prediction and Final Analysis

This KNVB Cup clash promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the round. PEC Zwolle will rely on their strong home form and the scoring touch of Koen Kostons to challenge a wounded AZ side. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar will look to rediscover their rhythm and avoid a fourth consecutive defeat. The visitors’ attacking potential remains high, but their defensive lapses could once again prove costly.

Considering both teams’ recent performances and their tendency to produce goal-filled matches, fans can expect an entertaining evening in Zwolle. The balance between PEC’s resurgence and AZ’s need for redemption sets the stage for a thrilling cup battle that could go either way.

PEC Zwolle vs AZ prediction by BetMines:
The most likely outcome is an AZ win (2) with a 54% probability. The Draw (X) follows at 21%, while a PEC Zwolle win (1) stands at 25%.