NEC Nijmegen vs PEC Zwolle Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 24 January

NEC Nijmegen vs PEC Zwolle Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 24 January. As the Eredivisie continues to heat up, NEC Nijmegen will host PEC Zwolle at Stadion De Goffert. This match is set to take place on Saturday, 24 January, and promises to be a compelling encounter between two Dutch sides looking to make their mark in the league. Both teams have displayed varying forms this season, making this clash an intriguing prospect for fans and bettors alike.

NEC Nijmegen, playing at their home ground, Stadion De Goffert, will aim to capitalise on familiar surroundings to secure a vital win. Meanwhile, PEC Zwolle will be eager to challenge their hosts and climb the Eredivisie standings. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams’ league positions, adding an extra layer of importance to this fixture. As the teams prepare to face off, all eyes will be on how they perform under the pressure of this crucial league matchup.

NEC Nijmegen vs PEC Zwolle Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
NEC Nijmegen to Win	1.45

Given NEC Nijmegen’s strong home form and their historical edge over PEC Zwolle, our recommended betting tip is to back NEC Nijmegen for a home win. NEC have shown consistent scoring ability and resilience, especially at home, making them the safer pick in this matchup.

• NEC Nijmegen have scored first in 86% of their last 7 matches against PEC Zwolle, indicating a strong start is likely.
• PEC Zwolle concede an average of 2.1 goals per game this season, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities.
• NEC Nijmegen have scored in 7 consecutive matches, showcasing their reliable attacking form.

Betting Odds

NEC Nijmegen are the clear favourites in this Eredivisie clash, with their odds reflecting a strong home advantage at Stadion De Goffert. PEC Zwolle, on the other hand, are seen as the underdogs, but there’s potential value in backing them if you’re feeling adventurous.

Betting Tip	Odds
NEC Nijmegen to Win	1.45
Draw	4.72
PEC Zwolle to Win	5.91

The draw is also an intriguing option, especially given the competitive nature of the league. For those looking at goal markets, considering NEC’s attacking prowess, over 2.5 goals could be a smart play.

NEC Nijmegen Analysis & Recent Performance

NEC Nijmegen have demonstrated solid form in recent fixtures, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches with three wins and two draws. This impressive run includes a thrilling 4-3 victory over NAC Breda and a 2-1 win against De Treffers in the KNVB Cup.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
De Treffers	NEC Nijmegen	1 – 2 (Win)	KNVB Cup	20 Jan 2026
NAC Breda	NEC Nijmegen	3 – 4 (Win)	Eredivisie	17 Jan 2026
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

Recent Form:
NEC Nijmegen’s attacking prowess is evident, with an average of 2.60 goals scored per match in their last five games. However, defensive vulnerabilities are apparent as they have conceded an average of 1.80 goals per match, with no clean sheets in this span. Their consistency in scoring across all fixtures suggests a robust offensive strategy, although defensive improvements are needed to solidify their standing.

Home Performance:

• WWDWD

At home, NEC Nijmegen maintain a strong record with three wins and two draws from their last five matches, reflecting a win ratio of 60%. Their home form is crucial as they aim to maintain their position in the upper echelons of the Eredivisie standings. The team’s ability to score consistently at home has been instrumental in their current league position, sitting 4th with 32 points.

NEC Nijmegen Suspensions & Injuries

NEC Nijmegen face a challenging situation with key players such as Bram Nuytinck, Freek Entius, and Youssef El Kachati listed as doubtful due to injuries. Nuytinck’s knee injury, in particular, could impact defensive solidity, as he is often a reliable figure at the back. Entius’s absence also raises concerns over midfield depth, potentially forcing tactical reshuffles.

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

With these injuries, NEC Nijmegen may need to rely more on available squad members such as Jetro Willems and Ahmetcan Kaplan to fill defensive gaps. In midfield, players like Dirk Proper and Kodai Sano could see increased responsibilities. The absence of El Kachati in the forward line means Bryan Linssen might be tasked with leading the attack, demanding a more dynamic approach.

These absences could influence the team’s formation and strategy against PEC Zwolle. The coach may opt for a more conservative setup to mitigate defensive vulnerabilities. This situation might also affect the betting markets, as the team’s chances could be perceived as diminished without these key players.

NEC Nijmegen Key Players

NEC Nijmegen will undoubtedly rely on their top scorer, Kento Shiogai, who has netted 7 goals this season. Shiogai’s presence in the forward line is instrumental, as his sharp finishing and ability to exploit defensive gaps could be pivotal against PEC Zwolle. His partnership with Koki Ogawa in attack promises to be a significant threat, with Ogawa’s movement creating space for Shiogai to operate.

In the midfield, Tjaronn Chery’s experience and vision make him a key player. He orchestrates play from the centre, linking defence and attack with his precise passing. His ability to dictate tempo and deliver set-pieces could provide NEC Nijmegen with vital scoring opportunities. Defensively, Philippe Sandler’s solid presence in the backline ensures stability, as his tackling and aerial prowess are crucial for maintaining a clean sheet.

Expected lineup for NEC Nijmegen

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

With these key players, NEC Nijmegen’s tactical approach will likely focus on sharp counter-attacks and exploiting set-piece situations. The combination of Shiogai’s goal-scoring prowess, Chery’s playmaking ability, and Sandler’s defensive strength could shape the dynamics of the match, giving them a competitive edge.

NEC Nijmegen Tactics and Formation

NEC Nijmegen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Bryan Linssen
• Midfield Pivot: Dirk Proper and Kodai Sano
• Defensive Strength: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession with an emphasis on midfield control.

NEC Nijmegen are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on maintaining high possession and controlling the game through the midfield. Dirk Proper and Kodai Sano will play pivotal roles in the midfield, tasked with both breaking up opposition attacks and transitioning the ball forward to the attacking trio.

Offensively, Bryan Linssen leads the line as the primary striker, supported by Roberto González and Noé Lebreton on the wings. This setup allows for flexibility in attack, with Linssen’s movement and finishing ability being key to NEC’s offensive output.

Defensively, NEC have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding in all of their last five matches. The defensive line, including Jetro Willems and Ahmetcan Kaplan, must tighten up to reduce goals conceded, particularly against a team like PEC Zwolle.

PEC Zwolle Analysis & Recent Performance

PEC Zwolle’s recent form has been inconsistent, with their last five matches yielding two wins, one draw, and two losses. Their recent win against AZ Alkmaar (3-1) at home was a highlight, showcasing their attacking potential.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
PEC Zwolle	AZ Alkmaar	3 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	17 Jan 2026
Twente	PEC Zwolle	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	10 Jan 2026
Excelsior	PEC Zwolle	2 – 1 (Defeat)	Eredivisie	20 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	Fortuna Sittard	1 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	13 Dec 2025
Feyenoord	PEC Zwolle	6 – 1 (Defeat)	Eredivisie	6 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WDLWL

In the last five games, PEC Zwolle have averaged 1.40 goals per match while conceding 2.00 goals on average. Their defensive line has shown vulnerabilities, having conceded in four of these encounters, and they’ve managed to keep just one clean sheet. Away from home, Zwolle have struggled, failing to secure a win in their last five away matches, drawing twice and losing three times. Their away win ratio stands at a low 0.00, indicating challenges on the road. Despite their mid-bottom standing at 11th place with 23 points, Koen Kostons has been a bright spot with eight goals, underlining Zwolle’s reliance on him for offensive output.

PEC Zwolle Suspensions & Injuries

PEC Zwolle are facing a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. The absence of Odysseus Velanas and Jasper Schendelaar, both listed as doubtful due to an ankle and hip injury respectively, could significantly impact the team’s dynamics. Velanas, known for his creative play in midfield, will be particularly missed, potentially forcing the team to adjust their attacking strategies.

Further complicating matters, Samir Lagsir and David Voute are also sidelined, which limits the depth of the squad. With these players out, the pressure falls on the likes of Thijs Oosting and Younes Namli to step up and fill the creative void in midfield. The absence of Schendelaar in goal means that Tom de Graaff is likely to continue as the starting goalkeeper, a role he has assumed in recent matches.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Odysseus Velanas	Ankle injury	Doubtful
Jasper Schendelaar	Hip injury	Doubtful

Tactically, PEC Zwolle may need to adopt a more conservative approach given the weakened squad. The lack of Velanas’ presence could see the team rely more heavily on counter-attacks and set-pieces to create scoring opportunities. Coach Henry van der Vegt will have to carefully consider his options and may need to promote some youth players to the bench to ensure adequate cover.

With these injuries, betting markets might swing slightly in favour of NEC Nijmegen, as PEC Zwolle’s diminished squad depth could influence their ability to perform at their usual level. The team’s ability to adapt to these absences will be crucial in determining the match outcome.

PEC Zwolle Key Players

PEC Zwolle will heavily rely on Koen Kostons, the team’s top scorer with 8 goals this season, to spearhead their attack. Kostons’ ability to find the back of the net has been instrumental for Zwolle, and his presence in the forward line is expected to pose significant challenges to NEC Nijmegen’s defence. His sharp positioning and clinical finishing make him a constant threat in the attacking third.

In midfield, Ryan Thomas brings creativity and experience, providing the necessary link between defence and attack. His vision and passing ability could be crucial in breaking down NEC Nijmegen’s defensive setup. Thijs Oosting, another key midfielder, is known for his work rate and ability to disrupt opposition plays, which could be vital in controlling the midfield battle.

Expected lineup for PEC Zwolle

• Goalkeeper: Tom de Graaff
• Defence: Tristan Gooijer, Simon Graves Jensen, Anselmo Garcia MacNulty, Sherel Floranus
• Midfield: Thijs Oosting, Ryan Thomas, Zico Buurmeester
• Forward: Younes Namli, Koen Kostons, Shola Shoretire

Defensively, Simon Graves Jensen’s role as a centre-back will be pivotal in organising the backline and ensuring defensive solidity. Alongside him, Sherel Floranus’ pace and tackling ability on the flanks are expected to keep NEC Nijmegen’s wingers in check. Collectively, these key players form the backbone of PEC Zwolle’s tactical approach, aiming to balance offensive prowess with defensive resilience.

PEC Zwolle Tactics and Formation

PEC Zwolle Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Koen Kostons
• Midfield Pivot: Thijs Oosting and Zico Buurmeester
• Defensive Challenge: No clean sheets in last five away games
• Notable Strategy: Dynamic midfield play and reliance on Koen Kostons for goals.

PEC Zwolle often utilise a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to balance defensive responsibilities with attacking flair. The midfield pivot of Thijs Oosting and Zico Buurmeester is pivotal, as they are tasked with breaking up opposition play and launching counter-attacks.

Koen Kostons is the focal point in the attack, having scored 8 goals this season. His role is crucial, especially with the team struggling for clean sheets away from home, putting pressure on their offensive unit to deliver.

Defensively, the team have seen challenges, as evidenced by their lack of clean sheets in the last five away matches. The back four, featuring Tristan Gooijer and Simon Graves Jensen, must be more cohesive to prevent conceding early goals, which has been a recurring issue.

NEC Nijmegen vs PEC Zwolle Head-to-Head Record

In their 27 encounters, PEC Zwolle have a slight edge with 10 wins compared to NEC Nijmegen’s 8, while they’ve drawn 10 times. Their last meeting ended in a 2-2 draw at PEC Zwolle’s home ground in the Eredivisie, showcasing how closely matched these sides are.

The last time NEC Nijmegen hosted PEC Zwolle in the Eredivisie was on 24 August 2024, where NEC secured a narrow 1-0 victory. This suggests that playing at Stadion De Goffert might give NEC a slight advantage, especially considering their ability to grind out results at home.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	Competition	Date
PEC Zwolle	NEC Nijmegen	2 – 2	Eredivisie	2025-10-25
PEC Zwolle	NEC Nijmegen	0 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-01-11
NEC Nijmegen	PEC Zwolle	2 – 2 (After extra time: 2 – 1)	KNVB Cup	2024-10-29
NEC Nijmegen	PEC Zwolle	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2024-08-24
NEC Nijmegen	PEC Zwolle	2 – 2	Eredivisie	2024-04-14