NAC Breda vs NEC Nijmegen Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 17 January

NAC Breda are set to take on NEC Nijmegen in a compelling Eredivisie fixture this Saturday, 17 January. The match will be played at the Rat Verlegh Stadion, offering NAC Breda the advantage of familiar surroundings as they seek to capitalise on their home support. Both sides are eager to claim valuable points in the league standings, making this clash particularly significant for their respective campaigns.

Historically, encounters between NAC Breda and NEC Nijmegen have been fiercely competitive, and this fixture promises to be no different. With both teams aiming to climb the Eredivisie table, there is plenty at stake. Supporters can expect a tightly contested match as each side looks to play to its strengths. The result could have lasting consequences for their league positions, adding extra intrigue to this weekend’s action.

NAC Breda vs NEC Nijmegen: Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
NEC Nijmegen to Win	2.2

Based on recent form and statistical analysis, our recommended betting tip is to back NEC Nijmegen to win. NEC Nijmegen have demonstrated consistency with two wins and two draws in their last five matches, including an impressive 3-1 victory over Sparta Rotterdam. In contrast, NAC Breda have struggled, failing to secure a win in their previous five outings.

• NEC Nijmegen have scored in 88% of their matches this season, underlining their attacking strength.
• NAC Breda have found it difficult to score, as shown by their recent performances, including a 1-0 defeat to PSV Eindhoven.
• NEC Nijmegen have won the last two head-to-head meetings against NAC Breda by a comfortable 3-0 margin, highlighting their dominance in this fixture.

Betting Odds

For this Eredivisie encounter, NAC Breda are considered underdogs with odds of 2.99, while NEC Nijmegen are slight favourites at 2.2. The draw is priced at 3.57, reflecting expectations of a closely fought contest.

Betting Tip	Odds
NAC Breda to win	2.99
Draw	3.57
NEC Nijmegen to win	2.2

If you are considering a bet, the over 2.5 goals market could be appealing, as both teams have shown attacking intent in recent fixtures. Additionally, the odds for both teams to score may offer value, given their offensive capabilities.

NAC Breda: Analysis & Recent Performance

NAC Breda’s recent form has been worrying, with the side failing to register a win in their last five matches. Their record consists of two draws and three defeats, illustrating a difficult period for the club. Their most recent outing ended in a 0-0 draw against FC Groningen, highlighting ongoing issues in attack as they managed just 10 shots during the match.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Groningen	NAC Breda	0 – 0 (Draw)	Eredivisie	10 Jan 2026
NAC Breda	Telstar	0 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	20 Dec 2025
NAC Breda	FC Utrecht	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	14 Dec 2025
Sparta Rotterdam	NAC Breda	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	7 Dec 2025
Excelsior	NAC Breda	1 – 0 (Loss)	Eredivisie	29 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
The team’s attacking statistics are underwhelming, with NAC Breda averaging only 0.20 goals per game over their last five fixtures. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 0.80 goals per match, managing just one clean sheet in this period. Home form is slightly improved, with a 20% win ratio, but still leaves much to be desired. Sydney van Hooijdonk remains their main attacking threat, having scored five goals this season, but the team overall has struggled to convert chances.

Currently sitting 16th in the league table with 14 points, NAC Breda must address their attacking shortcomings to move out of the relegation zone. Their tactical approach appears to prioritise defence, but without effective transitions to attack, they risk dropping further points.

• DLDLL

NAC Breda: Suspensions & Injuries

NAC Breda are facing a challenging situation ahead of their match against NEC Nijmegen, with several important players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of Cherrion Valerius, suspended for accumulating yellow cards, is a significant blow to their defence. His suspension leaves a gap that manager Carl Hoefkens will likely fill with Denis Odoi stepping into the backline, which could impact their defensive stability.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Cherrion Valerius	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

Regarding injuries, Leo Greiml, Fredrik Jensen, and Terence Kongolo are all doubtful, which could severely affect NAC Breda’s defensive and midfield depth. With both Greiml and Kongolo injured, the team may struggle to maintain their usual defensive structure and could be forced to adopt a more conservative approach.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Leo Greiml	Unknown	Doubtful
Fredrik Jensen	Unknown	Doubtful
Terence Kongolo	Illness	Doubtful

The tactical ramifications of these absences may prompt NAC Breda to take a more cautious approach. Fredrik Jensen’s potential absence in midfield could necessitate a change in formation or the inclusion of a less experienced player, potentially affecting their ability to control the game. With these players unavailable, betting markets may view NAC Breda as underdogs, which could shift the odds further in NEC Nijmegen’s favour.

NAC Breda: Key Players

Sydney van Hooijdonk is the focal point of NAC Breda’s attack, having scored five goals this season. His finishing ability and knack for finding space in the penalty area make him a constant threat. Van Hooijdonk’s clinical edge could be decisive in unlocking NEC Nijmegen’s defence. Supporting him up front is Moussa Soumano, whose pace and agility complement van Hooijdonk’s physical presence.

In midfield, Lewis Holtby stands out as the chief playmaker. His vision and passing range are vital for transitioning play from defence to attack, and his ability to dictate the tempo could shape the flow of the game. Kamal Sowah, another midfielder, brings dynamism and an eye for exploiting spaces, making him influential in both attack and defence.

At the back, Denis Odoi provides experience and leadership. His reading of the game and organisational skills are key for maintaining defensive solidity against NEC Nijmegen’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for NAC Breda

• Goalkeeper: Daniel Bielica
• Defence: Charles-Andreas Brym, Juho Talvitie, Denis Odoi, Rio Hillen, Boy Kemper
• Midfield: Max Balard, Lewis Holtby, Kamal Sowah
• Forward: Sydney van Hooijdonk, Moussa Soumano

NAC Breda: Tactics and Formation

NAC Breda Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 5-3-2
• Key Forward: Sydney van Hooijdonk
• Midfield Pivot: Lewis Holtby
• Defensive Structure: Clean sheet in the last match against FC Groningen
• Notable Strategy: Defensive resilience with quick counter-attacks.

NAC Breda’s 5-3-2 formation is set up to provide defensive security while enabling rapid transitions into attack. The five-man defence, anchored by Denis Odoi and Boy Kemper, ensures a compact backline, which is crucial for keeping clean sheets. This system allows them to absorb pressure effectively, as seen in their recent goalless draw with FC Groningen.

In midfield, Lewis Holtby plays a pivotal role in orchestrating play and linking defence with attack. His experience and vision are central to NAC Breda’s plan to control the tempo and exploit counter-attacking opportunities. Kamal Sowah and Maximilien Balard add further support, enhancing their ability to transition quickly.

Up front, Sydney van Hooijdonk remains a key figure, using his goal-scoring instincts to capitalise on counter-attacks. While NAC Breda have struggled for goals, van Hooijdonk’s presence is a focal point for their offensive efforts.

NEC Nijmegen: Analysis & Recent Performance

NEC Nijmegen have shown impressive form in recent weeks, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches across all competitions. This run includes notable victories such as a 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam and a hard-fought 3-2 triumph against FC Volendam.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
NEC Nijmegen	Ajax	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	20 Dec 2025
AFC	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 3 (Win)	KNVB Cup	16 Dec 2025
Telstar	NEC Nijmegen	2 – 2 (Draw)	Eredivisie	13 Dec 2025
FC Volendam	NEC Nijmegen	2 – 3 (Win)	Eredivisie	7 Dec 2025
NEC Nijmegen	Sparta Rotterdam	3 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	29 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

• DWDWW

NEC Nijmegen’s attack has been prolific, averaging 2.60 goals per game in their last five fixtures, with Kento Shiogai leading the way with seven goals this season. However, defensive solidity remains an issue, as they have conceded an average of 1.60 goals per match and have yet to keep a clean sheet in this period. Away from home, they have managed three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches, demonstrating a competitive edge on their travels.

NEC Nijmegen: Suspensions & Injuries

NEC Nijmegen’s preparations for their clash with NAC Breda are hindered by the absence of several key players due to injury. Bram Nuytinck, a crucial figure in defence, is sidelined with a knee injury and is listed as doubtful. His absence could leave a significant gap in the backline, possibly forcing manager Dick Schreuder to turn to a less experienced defender.

Freek Entius, also suffering from a knee injury, remains doubtful for the upcoming fixture. His absence may disrupt the team’s midfield balance, requiring tactical adjustments from Schreuder to maintain control in the centre of the pitch.

Youssef El Kachati’s availability is also uncertain due to an unspecified injury. This could limit NEC Nijmegen’s attacking options, especially if El Kachati’s versatility and creativity are missing on the pitch.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Bram Nuytinck	Knee injury	Doubtful
Freek Entius	Knee injury	Doubtful
Youssef El Kachati	Unknown	Doubtful

NEC Nijmegen: Key Players

NEC Nijmegen’s attacking threat will largely depend on the contributions of their top scorer, Kento Shiogai, who has found the net seven times this season. Shiogai’s ability to score from a variety of positions makes him a constant danger, and his clinical finishing will be vital against NAC Breda’s defence. His partnership with fellow forward Koki Ogawa could be crucial in breaking down the opposition’s backline.

In midfield, Tjaronn Chery and Brian Linssen are central to NEC Nijmegen’s creativity and tactical approach. Chery’s vision and range of passing allow him to orchestrate play, while Linssen’s dynamism and late runs into the box add another dimension to their attack. At the back, Philippe Sandler’s presence provides stability and resilience, which is essential for maintaining a solid defensive unit.

Expected lineup for NEC Nijmegen

• Goalkeeper: Gonzalo Crettaz
• Defence: Eli Dasa, Philippe Sandler, Ahmetcan Kaplan
• Midfield: Sami Ouaissa, Darko Nejasmic, Kodai Sano, Basar Onal, Tjaronn Chery, Brian Linssen
• Forward: Koki Ogawa

The interplay between these key players is likely to shape NEC Nijmegen’s tactical approach, with an emphasis on quick transitions and exploiting spaces in the opposition’s defence. The blend of strong defensive capabilities and attacking flair makes NEC Nijmegen a formidable side, capable of dictating the tempo and flow of the match.

NEC Nijmegen: Tactics and Formation

NEC Nijmegen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Koki Ogawa
• Midfield Pivot: Sami Ouaissa and Kodai Sano
• Defensive Strength: Yet to secure a clean sheet in recent matches
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and rapid transitions in attack.

NEC Nijmegen typically utilise a 4-2-3-1 formation, which offers a balanced approach between defence and attack. The midfield pivot of Sami Ouaissa and Kodai Sano is vital for controlling the tempo and transitioning play from defence to attack. Tjaronn Chery provides the creative spark in the attacking midfield role, supporting the lone striker, Koki Ogawa.

Defensively, NEC Nijmegen have struggled to keep clean sheets, which is a concern as they prepare to face NAC Breda. The backline, led by Philippe Sandler and Ahmetcan Kaplan, will need to be particularly alert to prevent conceding goals, especially given their recent defensive record.

In attack, NEC Nijmegen rely on high pressing and swift transitions. This approach has paid dividends, with the team averaging 2.6 goals per game recently. Bryan Linssen and Basar Onal on the wings play a crucial role in stretching opposition defences and delivering service to Ogawa.

NAC Breda vs NEC Nijmegen: Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head history, NAC Breda and NEC Nijmegen have met 41 times, with NAC Breda winning 15 matches, NEC Nijmegen claiming 14 victories, and 13 games ending in a draw. The most recent meeting saw NEC Nijmegen secure a dominant 3-0 victory at home in the Eredivisie. Notably, the last time these sides met in this competition at the Rat Verlegh Stadion, NAC Breda emerged victorious with a 1-0 win.

The Eredivisie head-to-head record shows a finely balanced rivalry, with both teams enjoying periods of success. NAC Breda will be hoping to make the most of their home advantage, having managed to keep NEC Nijmegen at bay in recent home fixtures.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
NEC Nijmegen	NAC Breda	3 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-08-24
NEC Nijmegen	NAC Breda	3 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-05-14
NAC Breda	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2024-10-05
NAC Breda	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 2	Eredivisie Playoff	2021-05-23
NEC Nijmegen	NAC Breda	0 – 2	Eerste Divisie	2021-05-03