Apollon vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction & Tips
With half of the matches in this UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL) group stage already played, Cypriot champions Apollon Limassol could have their work cut out if they fail to win again (E1, P2). Showing heart to come from behind and draw twice before finally losing 3-2 to AZ Alkmaar last week suggests that Apollon could perhaps do better at home, although failing to progress beyond the group stage of a European competition in their last four attempts also suggests they will struggle again.
Those two goals last week were Apollon’s first scores against Dutch opposition, but they have now lost their previous five games against teams from the Netherlands, conceding exactly three goals per game on average. If that wasn’t enough damage to their confidence, Apollon’s 15% average win rate in home group stage matches at European level (G2, E4, P7) will ensure the home side are aware of the job they have on their hands here.
Recording positive results seems to be as easy as A-B-C for AZ this season, as Pascal Janses’ side remain top of the Eredivisie after an impressive 2-1 away win over a solid Utrecht side in their previous outing. That result means they have still only lost once this campaign (G15, E2) and currently sitting at the top of Group E with maximum points, AZ could seal their name in the next round with a win here.
The “Cheese Heads” are no strangers to European competitions, and this time they are likely to advance past the group stage for the ninth time in 14 attempts. There is every reason to be confident in AZ, as a recent improvement in their away performance in this instance (G2, E2), despite losing eight of their last 15 away games at continental level, suggest they may well justify favoritism.
Players to watch: Apollon’s Dutch midfielder Patrick Joosten has been involved in four goals against AZ between their previous group stage meetings and their days playing in the Eredivisie, but only won once (G1, E3, P3). On the other hand, AZ’s Dani de Wit has contributed nine goals in as many appearances in European competitions this season, including the only goal in a pair of 1-0 wins.
Key stat: Four of AZ’s last five official matches have produced at least two goals in the first half.
Apollon – AZ Alkmaar FREE TIPS
OVER 2.5 GOALS @ 2.25
