AZ Alkmaar are set to face Shelbourne in a crucial Conference League match at the AZ Stadion. With both teams currently outside the top 24, this game presents a golden opportunity for AZ Alkmaar to climb the ranks and boost their chances of progressing further in the competition.
AZ Alkmaar's Form and Expectations
AZ Alkmaar's recent form has been inconsistent, marked by alternating streaks of wins, draws, and losses across all competitions. Their latest setback was a 3-1 defeat against Heerenveen in the Eredivisie, a result that saw them miss the chance to close the gap on Feyenoord. Coach Maarten Martens will be keen to address these inconsistencies and guide his team back to winning ways.
The team's performance in the Conference League has been below expectations, currently sitting in 27th place. However, they remain within striking distance of the top 24 and the coveted top-eight spots, trailing only by goal difference and three points, respectively.
Home Advantage
After suffering defeats on their travels against AEK Larnaca and Crystal Palace, AZ Alkmaar will be hoping that a return to their home ground will provide the tonic needed for a second Conference League victory. They previously secured a win against Slovan Bratislava at the AZ Stadion, and will aim to replicate that success against Shelbourne.
Shelbourne's European Debut
For Shelbourne, this marks their debut campaign in the Conference League. However, they have endured a winless start, failing to score in their opening three matches. A 0-0 draw against Hacken offered some initial optimism, but defeats to Shkendija and Drita have followed.
Travelling to the Netherlands to face AZ Alkmaar represents their most challenging fixture on paper. Joey O'Brien's team will need to be at their best to secure a positive result against a strong Dutch side.
Troy Parrott's Dutch Chapter
Adding an interesting subplot to this match is the presence of Irish international Troy Parrott, who plays his football in the Netherlands with AZ Alkmaar. Parrott, a Dublin native, is gearing up to face Shelbourne, a club close to his birthplace, albeit one he doesn't support due to his allegiance to Shamrock Rovers. His journey and adaptation to Dutch football provide a compelling narrative alongside the match itself.