Fortuna Sittard vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction & Match Preview (21 December)

Fortuna Sittard vs AZ Alkmaar Prediction & Match Preview for 21 December. As we look ahead to this intriguing Eredivisie clash, Fortuna Sittard will host AZ Alkmaar at the Fortuna Sittard Stadion on Sunday, 21 December. This fixture promises to be a significant test for both sides as they compete for crucial points in the league standings.

Fortuna Sittard, playing on home soil, will be eager to make the most of their familiar surroundings as they take on the formidable AZ Alkmaar. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar will look to assert their dominance and continue their pursuit of a top spot in the Eredivisie. With both teams determined to make their mark, this encounter is set to be a compelling fixture in the Dutch football calendar.

Fortuna Sittard vs AZ Alkmaar: Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
AZ Alkmaar to Win	1.81

Given the current form and historical dominance, our recommended betting tip for this match is to back AZ Alkmaar to win. AZ have demonstrated consistent attacking prowess and strong away performances, while Fortuna Sittard have struggled for consistency, particularly in recent fixtures.

• AZ Alkmaar have won 14 of their last 16 meetings against Fortuna Sittard, including a convincing 3-0 away win recently.
• Fortuna Sittard have only one victory in their last five matches and will notably miss their creative force, Alen Halilović.
• AZ’s superior goal-scoring form, with 28 goals this season, combined with Fortuna’s average of 1.4 goals conceded per game, makes an AZ win a sensible bet.

Betting Odds

In this Eredivisie clash, AZ Alkmaar are the clear favourites with odds of 1.81, reflecting their strong form this season. Fortuna Sittard, playing at home, are priced at 3.92, offering a tempting return for those backing an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Fortuna Sittard to win	3.92
Draw	3.82
AZ Alkmaar to win	1.81

The draw is also an interesting option at 3.82, especially considering Fortuna’s ability to grind out results at home. Punters may also consider the over 2.5 goals market, given both teams’ attacking capabilities.

Fortuna Sittard: Analysis & Recent Performance

Fortuna Sittard’s recent form in the Eredivisie has been underwhelming, with a run of challenging results. In their last five matches, they have failed to secure a victory, recording two draws and three defeats. Their recent 2-3 home loss to Almere City FC in the KNVB Cup further highlights their current struggles.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Fortuna Sittard	Almere City FC	2 – 3 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	17 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	Fortuna Sittard	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	13 Dec 2025
Fortuna Sittard	Ajax	1 – 3 (Loss)	Eredivisie	6 Dec 2025
Fortuna Sittard	Heracles	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	29 Nov 2025
Sparta Rotterdam	Fortuna Sittard	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	22 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
In terms of attacking output, Fortuna Sittard have averaged 1.00 goal per match in their last five games, scoring in four of those fixtures. However, their defence has been leaky, conceding 1.80 goals per game, with a worrying nine goals allowed in the same period. They have also failed to keep a clean sheet in recent outings, underlining their defensive vulnerabilities.

Sittard’s home performances have been slightly better, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five home matches. They have a home win ratio of 0.40, indicating a moderate ability to secure points at home. However, their defensive record remains a concern, having conceded in each of their last two home games.

• LLLDD

Fortuna Sittard: Suspensions & Injuries

Fortuna Sittard face a challenging situation with three key players doubtful due to injury. The absence of Ramazan Bayram and Daley Sinkgraven, both suffering from knee injuries, could significantly impact the team’s defensive and midfield stability. Alen Halilović’s ankle injury further compounds the midfield woes, potentially affecting the team’s creative playmaking.

With these players unavailable, Fortuna Sittard will need to rely on their squad depth to fill the gaps. Possible replacements could include less experienced players stepping in, which may lead to a shift in tactical approach. Coach Danny Buijs may need to adjust his strategy, possibly opting for a more conservative setup to compensate for the loss of creativity and defensive solidity.

The tactical impact of these injuries cannot be understated, as Fortuna Sittard may need to adopt a more cautious playing style against AZ Alkmaar. This could influence the betting markets, with punters possibly seeing value in backing the opposition or a low-scoring encounter given the home side’s reduced depth.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Ramazan Bayram	Knee injury	Doubtful
Daley Sinkgraven	Knee injury	Doubtful
Alen Halilović	Ankle injury	Doubtful

Fortuna Sittard: Key Players

Fortuna Sittard’s attacking prospects rely heavily on their top scorer, Paul Gladon, who has netted four goals this season. Gladon’s clinical finishing and ability to find space in the box make him a constant threat to opposition defences. His partnership with creative forward Mohamed Ihattaren could be pivotal, as Ihattaren’s vision and dribbling skills provide vital service to Gladon.

In midfield, Édouard Michut stands out as a key player. His ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball efficiently will be crucial for Fortuna Sittard’s tactical approach. Defensively, Iván Márquez is expected to anchor the backline. His leadership and tackling ability help maintain the team’s defensive solidity, which will be vital against AZ Alkmaar’s potent attack.

Expected lineup for Fortuna Sittard:

• Goalkeeper: Mattijs Branderhorst
• Defenders: Ivo Pinto, Syb van Ottele, Iván Márquez, Shawn Adewoye
• Midfielders: Édouard Michut, Ryan Fosso, Justin Lonwijk
• Forwards: Mohamed Ihattaren, Kristoffer Peterson, Kaj Sierhuis

The interplay between these key players will shape Fortuna Sittard’s tactical approach, focusing on a balanced game plan that leverages their strengths in attack and midfield. The team’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack is a notable strength, and with players like Kristoffer Peterson and Kaj Sierhuis in the forward line, there is potential for dynamic offensive play.

Fortuna Sittard: Tactics & Formation

Fortuna Sittard Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Paul Gladon
• Midfield Role: Creative play through the centre
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on attacking down the flanks.

Fortuna Sittard are likely to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, which allows them to maximise their attacking options. Paul Gladon, their top scorer, leads the line and is pivotal in converting chances. The midfield, even with injuries, will need to focus on creative play to supply Gladon effectively.

Defensively, Fortuna Sittard have struggled, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five outings. The absence of key players such as Daley Sinkgraven impacts their defensive solidity, requiring tactical adjustments to strengthen the backline.

Offensively, Fortuna Sittard’s strategy often revolves around quick transitions and attacking through the wings. This approach can be particularly effective given their home advantage, despite recent inconsistencies in form and results.

AZ Alkmaar: Analysis & Recent Performance

AZ Alkmaar’s recent form has been mixed, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. Notably, they secured a 3-0 win against Drita in the Conference League and a 3-1 away victory over PEC Zwolle in the KNVB Cup, highlighting their ability to perform in both domestic and European competitions.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
AZ Alkmaar	Jagiellonia Białystok	0 – 0 (Draw)	Conference League	18 Dec 2025
Drita	AZ Alkmaar	0 – 3 (Win)	Conference League	11 Dec 2025
AZ Alkmaar	Go Ahead Eagles	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	7 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 3 (Win)	KNVB Cup	3 Dec 2025
Twente	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	30 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five games, AZ Alkmaar have averaged 1.60 goals per match while conceding an average of 0.80 goals. Their defence has shown resilience, keeping two clean sheets, contributing to their solid performance. However, away from home, they’ve experienced inconsistency, winning two out of five matches, reflecting a win ratio of 40%. Despite these challenges, Troy Parrott remains a key attacking force with eight goals this season.

Currently sitting sixth in the Eredivisie standings with 25 points, AZ Alkmaar’s overall season performance boasts a win ratio of 47%. They have scored in 14 out of 15 matches, showcasing their offensive consistency. However, they need to address their defensive vulnerabilities, having conceded 24 goals this season, to climb higher in the league standings.

• DWDWL

AZ Alkmaar: Suspensions & Injuries

AZ Alkmaar are facing a challenging situation with several key players doubtful for the upcoming match against Fortuna Sittard. Seiya Maikuma, Jordy Clasie, and Mexx Meerdink are all nursing injuries that leave their participation uncertain. Maikuma’s knee injury and Clasie’s fatigue could significantly impact the midfield’s stability and creativity. Meerdink’s groin injury also places a question mark over his availability, which might reduce attacking options.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Seiya Maikuma	Knee injury	Doubtful
Jordy Clasie	Fatigue	Doubtful
Mexx Meerdink	Groin injury	Doubtful
Denso Kasius	Ankle injury	Mid-February 2026

The absence of these players may force coach Maarten Martens to consider tactical adjustments. Without Clasie, the team might lack some defensive cover in midfield, potentially requiring Sven Mijnans to play a more disciplined role. Peer Koopmeiners may need to step up creatively to fill the void left by Maikuma. Up front, the reliance on Troy Parrott and Isak Steiner Jensen will increase if Meerdink is unavailable.

With Denso Kasius out until mid-February due to an ankle injury, defensive depth could be tested. However, the presence of Mees de Wit and Wouter Goes in defence should provide some reassurance. The lack of suspensions means Martens can at least maintain consistency in his strategic approach. Betting markets may view these injuries as a potential weakness, possibly affecting AZ Alkmaar’s odds for this fixture.

AZ Alkmaar: Key Players

AZ Alkmaar’s attacking prowess is spearheaded by their top scorer, Troy Parrott, who has already netted eight goals this season. Parrott’s clinical finishing and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a constant threat to any opposition. His movement in the final third is crucial, especially when paired with the creativity of midfielders like Sven Mijnans, who is adept at threading key passes. Mijnans plays a pivotal role in linking defence to attack, ensuring a steady supply of opportunities for the forwards.

Defensively, the presence of Wouter Goes in the backline provides stability. His aerial ability and composure under pressure are vital for maintaining a solid defensive record. Alongside him, Alexandre Penetra’s versatility adds depth to the defensive setup, allowing AZ Alkmaar to adapt tactically during the match. The cohesion between these players forms the backbone of AZ Alkmaar’s tactical approach, focusing on quick transitions and solid defensive organisation.

Expected lineup for AZ Alkmaar:

• Goalkeeper: Rome Jayden Owusu-Oduro
• Defenders: Mees de Wit, Wouter Goes, Alexandre Penetra, Mateo Chavez
• Midfielders: Peer Koopmeiners, Sven Mijnans, Kees Smit
• Forwards: Weslley Patati, Troy Parrott, Isak Jensen

AZ Alkmaar: Tactics & Formation

AZ Alkmaar Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Typically a 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Troy Parrott
• Midfield Engine: Peer Koopmeiners and Sven Mijnans
• Defensive Stability: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play and quick transitions.

AZ Alkmaar typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, allowing them to dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. In midfield, Peer Koopmeiners and Sven Mijnans play pivotal roles, combining defensive duties with creative play. The absence of Jordy Clasie due to injury may necessitate adjustments, potentially impacting their midfield balance.

Defensively, AZ Alkmaar rely on a back four usually featuring Mees de Wit and Wouter Goes, with Alexandre Penetra and Mateo Chavez at the heart of defence. Their recent performances include two clean sheets in the last five matches, indicating a solid defensive setup.

Offensively, Troy Parrott leads the line as the main striker, supported by wingers Weslley Patati and Isak Steiner Jensen. AZ Alkmaar’s strategy often focuses on high possession play, using quick transitions to exploit spaces behind the opposition defence.

Fortuna Sittard vs AZ Alkmaar: Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, AZ Alkmaar have dominated Fortuna Sittard with 15 wins out of 19 encounters, while Fortuna have managed just two victories and there have been two draws. The last meeting saw AZ Alkmaar narrowly win 1-0 at home in the Eredivisie.

The last time these teams met in the Eredivisie at Fortuna Sittard Stadion, the home side clinched a rare 1-0 victory. However, AZ Alkmaar’s overall form in this fixture suggests they are the stronger side, especially considering their ability to score consistently against Fortuna.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	League	Date
AZ Alkmaar	Fortuna Sittard	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-02-23
Fortuna Sittard	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2024-10-06
Fortuna Sittard	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 2	Eredivisie	2024-02-17
AZ Alkmaar	Fortuna Sittard	4 – 0	Eredivisie	2023-10-01
Fortuna Sittard	AZ Alkmaar	0 – 3	Eredivisie	2023-04-16