AZ Alkmaar are in a strong position to qualify for the Europa Conference League group stage after a 2-0 away win against Levski Sofia in the first leg of their play-off tie. The Dutch side will host the second leg at the AFAS Stadion and are expected to secure a comfortable victory. AZ Alkmaar’s strong form and tactical flexibility make them a formidable opponent, while Levski Sofia faces an uphill battle to overturn the deficit. The prediction is for AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0.
AZ Alkmaar are on the cusp of securing their place in the Europa Conference League group stage after a dominant 2-0 away victory over Levski Sofia in the first leg of their play-off tie. The Dutch side will host the return leg at the AFAS Stadion, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 PM UK time on Thursday, and are heavily favored to complete the job in front of their home fans.
AZ Alkmaar, a consistent contender for European spots in the Eredivisie, finished fifth last season and are aiming for a similar finish this year. Under the guidance of Maarten Martens, they currently sit third in the Eredivisie table with seven points from three matches, trailing leaders NEC and second-placed PSV by just two points. Their strong domestic form, coupled with their first-leg advantage, makes them a formidable opponent for Levski Sofia.
The first leg saw AZ Alkmaar execute their game plan to near perfection, stifling Levski Sofia's attack while showcasing their own attacking prowess. The 2-0 victory provides a comfortable cushion, allowing them to approach the second leg with confidence and tactical flexibility. Martens has instilled a sense of belief and resilience in his squad, making them a tough team to break down.
Looking at the expected lineup for AZ Alkmaar, Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro is set to start in goal, providing a reliable presence between the posts. The defense is likely to consist of Denso Kasius, Wouter Goes, Alexandre Penetra, and Mees De Wit, forming a solid wall in front of the goal. The midfield trio of Jordy Clasie, Kees Smit, and Peer Koopmeiners will be tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and providing support to both the defense and attack. In attack, Ibrahim Sadiq, Troy Parrott, and Isak Jensen will aim to stretch the Levski Sofia defense and capitalize on any opportunities that come their way.
Levski Sofia, one of Bulgaria's most decorated clubs with 26 national championships, 26 national cups, and three supercups, face an uphill battle to overturn the deficit. Julio Velázquez's side finished second in the 2024-25 First Professional Football League, a significant 14 points behind champions PFC Ludogorets Razgrad, highlighting their struggles to match the top teams in Bulgaria.
The 2-0 defeat at home in the first leg leaves Levski Sofia with a mountain to climb. They need to score at least two goals to force extra time, and three to win the tie outright, a daunting task against a well-organized AZ Alkmaar side. Their chances of progressing to the Europa Conference League proper appear slim, but they will undoubtedly fight to restore some pride and put in a strong performance in the second leg.
For Levski Sofia, Svetoslav Vutsov is expected to start in goal, hoping to keep AZ Alkmaar's attackers at bay. The defensive line is likely to comprise Aldair, Kristian Dimitrov, Christian Makoun, and Maicon, who will need to be at their best to contain AZ Alkmaar's forward threat. In midfield, Gasper Trdi and Asen Mitkov will be tasked with shielding the defense and winning the midfield battle. The attacking midfield trio of Marin Petkov, Rildo, and Radoslav Kirilov will need to provide creativity and spark in the final third, while Everton Bala will lead the line, hoping to find the back of the net.
Key Factors to Consider:
- AZ Alkmaar have won 4 of their last 5 matches, showcasing their strong form.
- Levski Sofia have won 3 of their last 5 matches, indicating they are capable of winning games.
- AZ Alkmaar have drawn 1 of their last 5 matches, suggesting they are difficult to beat.
- Levski Sofia have lost 1 of their last 5 matches, showing resilience.
- Levski Sofia have drawn 1 of their last 5 matches.
Given AZ Alkmaar's first-leg victory and their strong home form, it's difficult to see anything other than a comfortable win for the Dutch side in the second leg. They have the quality, experience, and tactical nous to control the game and secure their place in the Europa Conference League group stage.
Prediction: AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0
Best Odds: 11/2
Bookmaker: Zetbet