NAC Breda vs FC Utrecht Prediction, Match Preview, 14 December

NAC Breda vs FC Utrecht Prediction, Match Preview: This Sunday, 14 December, the Eredivisie presents an intriguing clash between NAC Breda and FC Utrecht at the Rat Verlegh Stadion. Both teams are eager to make a significant impact on the league standings, and this fixture could prove pivotal in shaping their respective seasons.

Playing at home, NAC Breda will look to use their familiarity with the Rat Verlegh Stadion to secure a crucial victory. Meanwhile, FC Utrecht will aim to seize any opportunity to gain an advantage away from home. With both sides keen to climb the Eredivisie table, this encounter promises to be a competitive and tactical battle.

NAC Breda vs FC Utrecht Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
FC Utrecht to Win	2.51

Taking into account current form and squad strengths, our recommended betting tip is to back FC Utrecht to win. Utrecht have demonstrated solid defensive organisation and clinical finishing in recent matches, while NAC Breda are struggling with form and injuries. Utrecht appear well-placed to capitalise on these weaknesses.

• NAC Breda have suffered heavy defeats in recent matches, including a 6-0 loss to FC Twente and a 3-1 loss to Feyenoord, highlighting their poor form.
• Utrecht’s recent victories over tough opponents such as Feyenoord and Heerenveen underscore their strong form and tactical stability.
• NAC Breda’s key injuries, including Leo Greiml and Niklas Vesterlund, further weaken their defence, making them more vulnerable.

Betting Odds

In this upcoming Eredivisie clash, NAC Breda are priced at 2.67, making them slight underdogs against FC Utrecht, who are at 2.51. The draw is also a tempting option at 3.39, reflecting how evenly matched these teams are.

Betting Tip	Odds
NAC Breda to win	2.67
Draw	3.39
FC Utrecht to win	2.51

For those considering a bet, the odds suggest a closely contested match. With both teams having a history of competitive fixtures, exploring markets such as both teams to score or over 2.5 goals could offer value.

NAC Breda Analysis & Recent Performance

NAC Breda’s recent form has been worrying, with the side suffering four consecutive defeats after a solitary win in their last five matches. Their performance against Sparta Rotterdam ended in a narrow 0-1 defeat, despite dominating possession with 59% and registering 22 shots to Sparta’s 11. This highlights a significant issue in converting chances into goals.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Sparta Rotterdam	NAC Breda	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	7 Dec 2025
Excelsior	NAC Breda	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	29 Nov 2025
NAC Breda	PSV Eindhoven	0 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	22 Nov 2025
FC Volendam	NAC Breda	2 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	8 Nov 2025
NAC Breda	Go Ahead Eagles	1 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	1 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

• LLLLW

Over their last five outings, NAC Breda have averaged just 0.40 goals per game while conceding 1.00 on average, indicating struggles in both attack and defence. They have managed only one clean sheet in this period, further exposing defensive vulnerabilities. The team’s inability to score consistently, with goals in only two of these matches, is a major concern. At home, their form is marginally better with a win ratio of 20%, but only two wins in their last five home games. Sitting 17th in the Eredivisie with 12 points, improvement is essential to escape the relegation zone.

NAC Breda Suspensions & Injuries

NAC Breda face a challenging situation with uncertainty surrounding Leo Greiml, who is listed as doubtful due to an unspecified injury. Greiml’s potential absence could leave a gap in defence, affecting NAC Breda’s stability at the back. His presence has been crucial in organising the defence, and his absence may force coach Carl Hoefkens to make tactical adjustments.

In Greiml’s absence, the responsibility could fall to Rio Hillen or Denis Odoi to step up and fill the void. While both are capable defenders, neither has consistently demonstrated the leadership qualities Greiml brings to the squad. This may necessitate a more cautious approach from NAC Breda, potentially impacting their ability to maintain a high defensive line.

Tactically, NAC Breda may need to adopt a more conservative strategy, focusing on maintaining a solid defensive shape and relying on quick counter-attacks. This adjustment could influence their overall game plan and may impact the betting markets, with potential shifts in odds reflecting the defensive uncertainty.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Leo Greiml	Unknown	Questionable

NAC Breda Key Players

Leading NAC Breda’s attacking threat is their top scorer, Sydney van Hooijdonk, who has netted five goals this season. His consistent ability to find the back of the net makes him a vital part of their offensive setup. Van Hooijdonk’s positioning and finishing will be crucial against FC Utrecht’s defence, as he looks to exploit any weaknesses.

In midfield, Lewis Holtby stands out as a key playmaker, dictating the tempo and providing incisive passes. His partnership with Mohamed Nassoh could be pivotal in controlling the game’s flow. On the wings, Kamal Sowah offers pace and creativity, which could stretch FC Utrecht’s defensive lines and create opportunities for his teammates.

Expected lineup for NAC Breda

• Goalkeeper: Daniel Bielica
• Defence: Cherrion Valerius, Denis Odoi, Rio Hillen, Boy Kemper
• Midfield: Lewis Holtby, Mohamed Nassoh, Max Balard
• Forward: Juho Talvitie, Kamal Sowah, Raul Paula

Defensively, Denis Odoi’s experience and leadership are indispensable for NAC Breda. His presence in the backline alongside Rio Hillen and Boy Kemper provides a solid foundation. Together, these key players form a balanced unit capable of adapting to various tactical challenges and potentially securing a positive result for NAC Breda.

NAC Breda Tactics and Formation

NAC Breda Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Kamal Sowah
• Midfield Pivot: Lewis Holtby and Mohamed Nassoh
• Defensive Strength: Struggled to keep clean sheets, only one in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession focus, but struggles in converting chances.

NAC Breda typically operate in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to control the midfield with Lewis Holtby and Mohamed Nassoh. This setup allows them to dominate possession, as shown by their 59% share against Sparta Rotterdam, but converting this into goals has been a challenge.

Defensively, the team has struggled, conceding in four of their last five games. The backline, comprising Cherrion Valerius, Denis Odoi, Rio Hillen, and Boy Kemper, has been unable to consistently secure clean sheets, which is a concern as they face FC Utrecht.

Offensively, Kamal Sowah is pivotal, supported by Juho Talvitie and Raul Paula in wide positions. Despite creating numerous chances, as evidenced by their 22 shots against Sparta, their inefficiency in front of goal remains a key issue.

FC Utrecht Analysis & Recent Performance

In recent weeks, FC Utrecht have struggled to find consistent success on the pitch. Their last five matches have resulted in a disappointing run of two draws and three losses, including a 1-2 home defeat against Nottingham Forest in the Europa League. Despite scoring in each of these games, Utrecht’s defence has been porous, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per match, which highlights a significant area of concern.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Utrecht	Nottingham Forest	1 – 2 (Loss)	Europa League	11 Dec 2025
FC Utrecht	Twente	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	7 Dec 2025
Go Ahead Eagles	FC Utrecht	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	30 Nov 2025
Real Betis	FC Utrecht	2 – 1 (Loss)	Europa League	27 Nov 2025
Telstar	FC Utrecht	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	23 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

• LDDLD

Offensively, FC Utrecht have maintained a scoring average of 1.20 goals per game in their last five fixtures, with Victor Jensen emerging as a key player, contributing four goals this season. However, their failure to keep a single clean sheet in these matches reveals a defensive frailty that opponents could exploit. Away from home, Utrecht’s form is especially concerning, with no wins in their last five away games—managing only two draws and suffering three defeats. This poor away form has made it difficult to secure points, reflected in their current standing at 7th place with 22 points.

FC Utrecht Suspensions & Injuries

FC Utrecht have a slight concern with the unavailability of Davy van den Berg, who is listed as doubtful for the upcoming fixture. His absence could slightly disrupt the midfield dynamics, although recent lineups suggest Alonzo Engwanda and Gjivai Zechiël have been filling in adequately. Van den Berg’s potential absence may not significantly impact Utrecht’s overall midfield strength, given the depth provided by these players.

Another player, David Min, is also on the injury list and is expected to return in late December. While Min’s absence could affect Utrecht’s attacking options, the presence of players like Sébastien Haller and Miguel Rodríguez in the forward line ensures the team retains its offensive potency.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Davy van den Berg	Unknown	Doubtful
David Min	Unknown	Late December 2025

Given these injuries, tactical adjustments are likely to be minimal as FC Utrecht have been able to rely on a consistent core of players recently. The main focus will be on maintaining their current form and exploiting NAC Breda’s weaknesses, despite the missing personnel. This consistency could also provide reassurance to bettors, who might expect Utrecht to perform at a stable level.

FC Utrecht Key Players

Victor Jensen stands out as FC Utrecht’s top scorer with four goals this season. His ability to score from midfield positions provides a crucial attacking threat. Jensen is not only a goal scorer but also a playmaker, often orchestrating the team’s attacking movements and linking up effectively with the forward line. His performance will be vital in breaking down NAC Breda’s defence.

In defence, the experienced duo of Mike van der Hoorn and Nick Viergever are central to FC Utrecht’s efforts to maintain stability at the back. Their tactical awareness and ability to read the game are essential in thwarting opposition attacks. On the flanks, Siebe Horemans and Souffian El Karouani provide both defensive solidity and offensive support, contributing to the team’s width and balance.

Expected lineup for FC Utrecht:

• Goalkeeper: Vasilios Barkas
• Defenders: Siebe Horemans, Mike van der Hoorn, Nick Viergever, Souffian El Karouani
• Midfielders: Alonzo Engwanda, Victor Jensen, Gjivai Zechiël
• Forwards: Miguel Rodríguez, Dani de Wit, Yoann Cathline

Up front, Miguel Rodríguez and Dani de Wit are expected to spearhead the attack, with Yoann Cathline providing additional firepower and creativity. Their interplay and movement off the ball will be critical in exploiting any gaps in NAC Breda’s defensive setup. The collective strength of these key players will shape FC Utrecht’s tactical approach, emphasising a blend of solid defence and dynamic attacking play.

FC Utrecht Tactics and Formation

FC Utrecht Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Unconfirmed
• Key Forward: Sébastien Haller
• Midfield Control: Dani de Wit and Gjivai Zechiël
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Focus on ball retention and attacking through the wings.

FC Utrecht’s recent performances have featured a flexible formation that adapts to their opponents. With Sébastien Haller leading the line, Utrecht focus on using his physical presence to disrupt defensive lines and create scoring opportunities. The midfield, anchored by Dani de Wit and Gjivai Zechiël, is tasked with maintaining possession and transitioning play effectively.

Defensively, Utrecht have struggled to keep clean sheets, with none in their last five matches, indicating potential vulnerabilities at the back. The backline, which includes players such as Siebe Horemans and Souffian El Karouani, will need to improve their defensive coordination to avoid conceding goals.

Offensively, Utrecht aim to exploit the flanks, utilising the pace and creativity of Yoann Cathline and Miguel Rodríguez. Their strategy often involves quick transitions from defence to attack, seeking to catch opponents off guard.

NAC Breda vs FC Utrecht Head-to-Head Record

The head-to-head record between NAC Breda and FC Utrecht is competitive, with Utrecht slightly ahead with 16 wins to Breda’s 14, and 10 matches ending in draws. The last time these two met, Utrecht secured a narrow 1-0 victory at home in the Eredivisie earlier this year.

When Breda last hosted Utrecht in the Eredivisie, back in August 2024, they fell short with a 1-2 defeat. However, Breda fans may recall their thrilling 3-2 win in the KNVB Cup in December 2021, highlighting their potential to surprise at home.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Utrecht	NAC Breda	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-03-01
NAC Breda	FC Utrecht	1 – 2	Eredivisie	2024-08-24
NAC Breda	FC Utrecht	3 – 2	KNVB Cup	2021-12-14
NAC Breda	FC Utrecht	0 – 4	Eredivisie	2019-03-16
FC Utrecht	NAC Breda	2 – 1	Eredivisie	2018-10-05