RKC Waalwijk vs. Go Ahead Eagles Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 18 May 2025

This Sunday afternoon, all eyes will be on Mandemakers Stadion as RKC Waalwijk hosts Go Ahead Eagles in the final round of the Eredivisie. Kicking off at 13:30, this match holds immense significance for both sides, although they’re fighting for vastly different stakes.

RKC Waalwijk find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 17th with 22 points. Their recent form of LWLLL adds to the drama, especially given their slim hope of survival hinging on an improbable goal difference turnaround.

On the flip side, Go Ahead Eagles, under coach Paul Simonis, are riding in 7th place with 51 points. Fresh off a 1-0 win against SC Heerenveen, they’re clear bookmaker favourites at 2.16 odds.

Matches between these teams have historically been tight, averaging 1.5 goals per game. Our prediction tips towards a draw, considering Go Ahead Eagles’ recent form and RKC’s desperate push for survival.

Expect intense action as both sides look to finish the season on a high.

RKC Waalwijk vs Go Ahead Eagles Prediction & Betting Tip

Considering the intricate details and the tightness of past encounters, our recommended betting tip is a draw. The historical data, current form of both teams, and the tension of the final round stack the odds for this to be a close affair.

• Recent History: Matches between these sides have been closely contested, with an average of 1.5 goals per encounter.
• Go Ahead Eagles’ Defence: Go Ahead Eagles have shown strength, keeping 2 clean sheets in their last 5 games.
• RKC’s Desperation: RKC Waalwijk, despite their position, will leave everything on the field to avoid relegation.

Overall, it should be a fascinating watch as both teams aim to close their seasons with a positive result.

RKC Waalwijk vs Go Ahead Eagles Odds

The odds are in favor of Go Ahead Eagles, who are the bookmaker’s favorites. Let’s take a look at the betting odds for this match:

These odds reflect the standings and recent form of both teams. RKC Waalwijk, positioned lower in the table, face an uphill battle.
Meanwhile, Go Ahead Eagles, sitting comfortably in 7th, are in the driver’s seat with favorable odds.
This matchup promises intrigue as both sides aim to finish the season on a high note.

RKC Waalwijk Team Analysis

RKC Waalwijk Recent Performance

RKC Waalwijk’s recent form has been shaky, recording one win and four losses in their last five games. Their lone victory came against SC Heerenveen, but they have struggled defensively, keeping zero clean sheets in the last five matches. On average, RKC Waalwijk scored 1.00 goals per match in this period, highlighting their attacking struggles. With the team positioned 17th in the standings, earning 22 points, they are in dire need of a win to escape relegation.

RKC Waalwijk Key Players

RKC Waalwijk will rely heavily on their top scorer, Oskar Zawada, who has netted 9 goals this season. His partnership with winger Richonell Margaret, who opened the scoring in their recent win against SC Heerenveen, will be crucial.
In midfield, Mohammed Ihattaren and Yassin Oukili are expected to drive the team’s creativity and provide crucial support to the forwards.
Defensively, Faissal Al Mazyani and Juan Familia-Castillo will have their hands full containing Go Ahead Eagles’ attacking threats.

Expected lineup for RKC Waalwijk:

• Goalkeeper: Mark Spenkelink
• Defenders: Julian Lelieveld, Faissal Al Mazyani, Roshon van Eijma, Liam van Gelderen, Juan Familia-Castillo
• Midfielders: Tim van de Loo, Mohammed Ihattaren, Yassin Oukili
• Forwards: Oskar Zawada, Richonell Margaret

RKC Waalwijk Suspensions & Injuries

RKC Waalwijk has several key players struggling with injuries ahead of their crucial matchup against Go Ahead Eagles.

The absence of these players could hamper the squad’s depth and flexibility, putting additional pressure on the existing lineup. Goalkeeper Yannick Van Osch’s unavailability might particularly affect their defensive solidity, given their current struggle to keep clean sheets. Forward options like Oskar Zawada and Richonell Margaret will need to step up even more to compensate for the missing personnel.

RKC Waalwijk Tactics and Formation

RKC Waalwijk Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Oskar Zawada
• Midfield Trio: Tim van de Loo, Mohammed Ihattaren, Yassin Oukili
• Defensive Strength: The team struggles, having kept zero clean sheets in their last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Early attacking intent as showcased in their vital win against SC Heerenveen.

Coach Henk Fraser is expected to field his team in a 4-3-3 formation, aiming for a well-rounded but attack-focused approach to make the most of their home advantage. With Zawada leading the forward line, supported by Margaret, RKC will aim to break down Go Ahead Eagles’ defense early on, hoping to capitalize on any potential slip-ups.

Go Ahead Eagles Team Analysis

Go Ahead Eagles Recent Performance

Go Ahead Eagles have been in mixed form recently, encapsulated by a run of results: WDLDW. Their solid performance has seen them secure a respectable 7th position with 51 points. Over their last five games, they have managed two clean sheets, indicating a relatively stable defense. The team has an average goals scored of 1.40 in these matches.
Here are their last five results:

Their recent performance indicates a relatively stable backline, despite conceding an average of 1.5 goals across their matches this season. Coach Paul Simonis will be looking to continue this trend of steady performances as they travel to the Mandemakers Stadion.

Go Ahead Eagles Key Players

Go Ahead Eagles’ key players will play a crucial role in their matchup against RKC Waalwijk. Top scorer Jakob Breum, with 9 goals this season, will be the main threat up front. Victor Edvardsen, featuring as the center forward, will also be someone to watch, as his presence in the box can create opportunities. Oliver Antman and Mathis Suray will provide width and creativity from the wings and attacking midfield. In defense, Gerrit Nauber and Joris Kramer form a solid central partnership, while Jari De Busser is expected to protect the goal.

Expected lineup for Go Ahead Eagles:

• Goalkeeper: Jari De Busser
• Defenders: Mats Deijl, Gerrit Nauber, Joris Kramer, Aske Adelgaard
• Midfielders: Robbin Weijenberg, Evert Linthorst, Oliver Antman, Mathis Suray
• Forwards: Oskar Sivertsen, Victor Edvardsen

Go Ahead Eagles Suspensions & Injuries

The Go Ahead Eagles will have to navigate their fixture against RKC Waalwijk with a few injury concerns. Julius Dirksen and Calvin Twigt are both doubtful, which could impact defensive and midfield options. Additionally, Sören Tengstedt is expected to return in late May, leaving Go Ahead Eagles short of attacking depth.

These absences might compel Paul Simonis to adjust his tactics and reliance on bench players, highlighting the necessity for resilience and squad depth in this fixture.

Go Ahead Eagles Tactics and Formation

Go Ahead Eagles Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Victor Edvardsen
• Midfield Trio: Robbin Weijenberg, Evert Linthorst, Mathis Suray
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on strong attacking wings with Oskar Sivertsen and Oliver Antman providing width.

Paul Simonis’s side typically sets up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, placing importance on balanced play and defensive solidity. The double pivot of Weijenberg and Linthorst aims to protect the back four, while Suray as the attacking midfielder provides a creative spark.

The pace and dribbling skills of their wingers, Sivertsen and Antman, are crucial in breaking down opposition defences. De Busser, their reliable goalkeeper, ensures composure at the back.

RKC Waalwijk vs Go Ahead Eagles Head-to-Head Statistics

Go Ahead Eagles have dominated the recent head-to-head meetings, winning four out of the last five encounters. The matches have generally been tightly contested, with fewer goals scored on average. This historical edge may give the Eagles an added psychological advantage going into this clash.

Odds accurate as of 16.05.2025 13:31, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.