Twente vs. NEC Nijmegen Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 22 May 2025 - bettingexpert

As we head into the Eredivisie semi-finals, Twente and NEC Nijmegen will clash at De Grolsch Veste on 22 May 2025 at 20:00. This promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams vying for a spot in the final. Sander van der Eijk will officiate the match.

Twente, coached by Joseph Oosting, boasts superior odds at 1.60. They have a solid track record against NEC, winning their last encounter 2-0. Although they recently fell to Ajax 2-0, they remain a formidable team, netting regularly with an average of 1.40 goals per game in recent outings.

NEC Nijmegen, led by Rogier Meijer, are in promising form, highlighted by a 3-0 victory over NAC Breda. They have scored in 79% of their matches this season and come into this game with impressive attacking stats, averaging 1.80 goals per game.

Interestingly, both teams have struggled defensively, which makes a "Both teams to score" bet seem wise. Given their recent scoring forms and defensive weaknesses, expect an exciting, high-scoring game.

Twente vs NEC Nijmegen Prediction & Betting Tip

Recommending a "Both teams to score" bet for this exciting semi-final. Both sides have shown a strong attacking form recently, with Twente scoring in 62% of their matches and NEC Nijmegen netting 9 goals in their last 5 games. Add to the mix their defensive frailties, and this tip appears promising.

Twente vs NEC Nijmegen Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
Both teams to score (Yes)	1.60

• Twente have scored in 62% of their matches this season.
• NEC Nijmegen has netted 9 goals in their last 5 matches, showing good scoring form.
• Both teams have shown defensive weaknesses recently.

Expect a match with plenty of action and goals from both sides.

Twente vs NEC Nijmegen Odds

The odds favor Twente for this semi-final clash at De Grolsch Veste. Let’s take a look at the numbers:

Twente vs NEC Nijmegen Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Twente	1.60
Draw	4.17
NEC Nijmegen	4.87

Twente’s home advantage and solid defensive record in recent matches make them the bookmaker’s favorite. NEC Nijmegen, despite showing impressive recent form, come in as the underdog.

Interestingly, both teams have scored consistently, suggesting there could be value in alternative bets like "Both teams to score." This could be an exciting and high-stakes match for both sides.

Twente Team Analysis

Twente Recent Performance

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Ajax	Twente	2025-05-18	Eredivisie	2-0 (Loss)
Twente	AZ Alkmaar	2025-05-14	Eredivisie	2-3 (Loss)
Twente	FC Utrecht	2025-05-11	Eredivisie	2-0 (Win)
Sparta Rotterdam	Twente	2025-05-04	Eredivisie	0-2 (Win)
Twente	PSV	2025-04-24	Eredivisie	1-3 (Loss)

Twente’s recent performances have seen a mixture of highs and lows, characterised by a recent form of LLWWL. They managed to secure two clean sheets in their last five games, showing glimpses of solid defence. Moreover, they scored an average of 1.40 goals per match, which highlights their attacking capabilities.
Their focus will be on refining their defence while maintaining their scoring prowess in this crucial semi-final.

Twente Key Players

Twente will rely heavily on their experienced forward Ricky van Wolfswinkel, who leads the attacking line. His proficiency in finding the back of the net could tip the scales in Twente’s favour.
Sem Steijn is another vital cog in the team’s midfield, known for his creative playmaking abilities. Michel Vlap on the left wing adds pace and an attacking threat, while Younes Taha on the right flank can exploit any defensive lapses by NEC Nijmegen.
Defensively, Bart van Rooij and Mees Hilgers are crucial in maintaining solidity at the back.

Expected lineup for Twente:

• Goalkeeper: Przemyslaw Tyton
• Defenders: Bart van Rooij, Mees Hilgers, Max Bruns, Bas Kuipers
• Midfielders: Mathias Kjölö, Michal Sadilek, Younes Taha, Sem Steijn, Michel Vlap
• Forward: Ricky van Wolfswinkel

Twente Suspensions & Injuries

Twente is dealing with a few injury concerns that could impact their performance in this crucial semi-final clash. Here’s the latest on their injuries:

Player	Injury	Expected return
Sam Lammers	Dislocated shoulder	Doubtful
Naci Ünüvar	Unknown	Late May 2025

These injuries could leave Twente with fewer options in attack and midfield. Sam Lammers’ absence is particularly concerning, as his presence upfront could have added diversity to Twente’s offensive gameplay. Naci Ünüvar’s unavailability also limits their creativity and depth in midfield. Twente needs to adapt and rely on their bench strength to cover these gaps.

Twente Tactics and Formation

Twente Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Ricky van Wolfswinkel
• Midfield Trio: Michal Sadílek, Sem Steijn, Michel Vlap
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on solid midfield control and tactical pressing.

Twente typically lines up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under coach Joseph Oosting. This setup allows them to maintain a balanced approach with a strong midfield presence.

Ricky van Wolfswinkel, the centre-forward, is crucial for their goal-scoring efforts. The midfield trio, consisting of Sadílek, Steijn, and Vlap, provides both defensive cover and creative options. The team has successfully kept two clean sheets in their past five matches, showcasing their defensive resilience.

Twente’s strategy revolves around controlling the midfield and applying tactical pressure, making them a formidable opponent.

NEC Nijmegen Team Analysis

NEC Nijmegen Recent Performance

NEC Nijmegen have been in excellent form recently, winning three of their last five games.
Recent Form: WWWDL

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Heracles	NEC Nijmegen	2025-05-18	Eredivisie	1-2 (Win)
NEC Nijmegen	NAC Breda	2025-05-14	Eredivisie	3-0 (Win)
Ajax	NEC Nijmegen	2025-05-11	Eredivisie	0-3 (Win)
NEC Nijmegen	Willem II	2025-05-03	Eredivisie	1-1 (Draw)
SC Heerenveen	NEC Nijmegen	2025-04-27	Eredivisie	1-0 (Loss)

NEC Nijmegen have scored an impressive average of 1.80 goals per game in their last five matches. They have managed to keep two clean sheets during this period, showcasing both their offensive and defensive capabilities. Their recent winning streak indicates strong momentum heading into this semi-final clash.

NEC Nijmegen Key Players

Expected lineup for NEC Nijmegen:

• Goalkeeper: Robin Roefs
• Defenders: Brayann Pereira, Philippe Sandler, Ivan Marquez, Calvin Verdonk
• Midfielders: Kodai Sano, Sami Ouaissa, Vito van Crooij
• Attackers: Sontje Hansen, Bryan Linssen, Thomas Ouwejan

NEC Nijmegen boasts a robust lineup with standout performers across the pitch. One to watch is Vito van Crooij, who provides creativity and flair up front.

Defenders like Philippe Sandler and Ivan Marquez will aim to keep Twente’s attack at bay, a key individual battle against Twente’s striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel.

Bryan Linssen and Thomas Ouwejan are also crucial in breaking down Twente’s defense, looking to maintain NEC’s scoring streak. With their recent form, these players are pivotal in this crucial semi-final clash.

NEC Nijmegen Suspensions & Injuries

Player	Injury	Expected return
Kas de Wit	Unknown	Doubtful
Bram Nuytinck	Unknown	Doubtful

Injuries to Kas de Wit and Bram Nuytinck might impact NEC Nijmegen’s squad depth and defensive stability. With both players doubtful, Coach Rogier Meijer may need to rely on his bench and make adjustments to the defensive setup.

These absences could be a challenge against a strong Twente side, putting extra pressure on the remaining defenders like Philippe Sandler and Ivan Marquez to maintain solidity at the back.

NEC Nijmegen Tactics and Formation

NEC Nijmegen’s Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Thomas Beekman
• Midfield Duo: Kodai Sano, Sami Ouaissa
• Defensive Setup:
  • Right back: Brayann Pereira
  • Right center back: Philippe Sandler
  • Left center back: Ivan Marquez
  • Left back: Calvin Verdonk
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: High pressing game to disrupt Twente’s build-up play.
• Weakness to Watch: Potential defensive gaps due to injuries to key players like Cas Odenthal and Bram Nuytinck.

This structured setup aims to balance offensive pressure while sustaining defensive solidity, albeit with some vulnerabilities due to recent injuries.

Twente vs NEC Nijmegen Head-to-Head Statistics

Analyzing the past five meetings between Twente and NEC Nijmegen, it’s clear that Twente have had the upper hand overall. Here’s a detailed look:

Home team	Away team	Date	Competition	Result
Twente	NEC Nijmegen	2025-02-23	Eredivisie	2-0 (Win)
NEC Nijmegen	Twente	2024-08-10	Eredivisie	1-2 (Loss)
NEC Nijmegen	Twente	2024-01-20	Eredivisie	1-0 (Win)
Twente	NEC Nijmegen	2023-11-11	Eredivisie	3-3 (Draw)
Twente	NEC Nijmegen	2023-05-12	Eredivisie	4-0 (Win)

From these past encounters, Twente have won three games, drawn one, and lost one. This gives them a psychological edge, although NEC Nijmegen will look to flip the script.

Odds accurate as of 20th May 2025, 20:03, and are subject to change.
Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.