AZ Alkmaar v Juventus | Expected Lineup

AZ Alkmaar and Juventus will put their ambitions of securing a place in the UEFA Europa League’s top eight to the test when they meet at the AFAS Stadion for the first time in their history.

AZ have made a decent start to their European campaign, collecting six points from three matches (W2, L1). Their most recent European performance was particularly impressive, as they defeated Ararat-Armenia 4-0 on matchday three.

However, Leeroy Echteld’s side have struggled domestically, suffering consecutive Eredivisie defeats against Twente (2-0) and Ajax (1-0).

Their European home record offers plenty of encouragement. AZ are unbeaten in their last 17 European matches at the AFAS Stadion, recording 14 wins and three draws since October 2023. They have also secured four competitive home victories in six attempts this season.

Juventus Arrive with Renewed Confidence

Juventus travel to the Netherlands sitting inside the Europa League’s top eight with seven points (W2, D1). The Italian giants have scored nine goals in their opening three matches, with only Benfica finding the net more often.

A convincing 2-0 victory over Napoli last weekend helped restore confidence following their unexpected defeat to Genoa. However, their away form remains a concern, with only two victories in their last five trips.

Nevertheless, Juventus have lost just once in their last ten European matches, winning six and drawing three. They have also scored at least twice in eight of those fixtures.

This will be the first-ever meeting between the clubs. AZ are unbeaten in five European encounters against Italian opposition (W4, D1), while Juventus have recorded two wins and one draw against Dutch teams in the Europa League, conceding just once.

Key Players and Statistics

AZ’s Weslley Patati arrives in excellent form after contributing two goals and one assist in their previous Europa League match.

Meanwhile, Juventus youngster Kerim Alajbegović has scored five of his last seven club goals within the opening 30 minutes.

Juventus have also won the second half in four consecutive European matches, while only one of their last five games has seen both teams score.

Expected Starting XI by Spalletti :

About The Author

Forza Juventus

See author's posts