Twente vs PEC Zwolle Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 10 January

Twente will host PEC Zwolle at De Grolsch Veste in a highly anticipated Eredivisie clash on Saturday, 10 January. This match is crucial for both teams as they look to secure vital points in the league standings. Twente, playing at home, will aim to capitalise on their familiar surroundings and fan support to gain an edge over their opponents. Meanwhile, PEC Zwolle will be eager to challenge their hosts and improve their position in the league.

The Eredivisie encounter at De Grolsch Veste promises to be an exciting battle between two Dutch sides with different aspirations. Twente will be looking to strengthen their hold in the top half of the table, while PEC Zwolle seek to climb out of the lower ranks. With both teams having much to play for, this fixture could offer intriguing betting opportunities for those looking to make informed predictions.

Twente vs PEC Zwolle Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Over 3.5 goals	2.14

Given the recent form and defensive frailties of PEC Zwolle, our recommended betting tip is to back Over 3.5 goals in this match. Both teams have shown tendencies towards high-scoring games, and with Twente’s strong home performances, we can expect plenty of action.

• Twente have a solid home record, scoring consistently, which suggests they are likely to find the net multiple times.
• PEC Zwolle have the second-weakest defence on the road, conceding an average of 3 goals per away match.
• The previous encounter between these two teams ended with goals, and we expect a similar outcome in this game.

Betting Odds

Twente are strong favourites in this Eredivisie clash, with the betting odds reflecting their superior form and home advantage. At 1.27, a win for Twente seems likely, but for those looking for a bigger payout, the draw is priced at 5.74, while PEC Zwolle’s odds stand at a hefty 9.4.

Betting Tip	Odds
Twente to win	1.27
Draw	5.74
PEC Zwolle to win	9.4

Given Twente’s impressive home record, punters might find value in betting on a comfortable winning margin. However, PEC Zwolle could surprise, making the draw or even a shock away win intriguing options for risk-takers.

Twente Analysis & Past Performance

Twente have been in robust form recently, maintaining an unbeaten streak in their last five matches, with three wins and two draws. Their latest encounter was a 1-1 draw against Feyenoord, showcasing their resilience against top-tier opposition.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Feyenoord	Twente	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	Dec 21, 2025
Spakenburg	Twente	3 – 6 (Win)	KNVB Cup	Dec 18, 2025
Twente	Go Ahead Eagles	2 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	Dec 14, 2025
FC Utrecht	Twente	1 – 1 (Draw)	Eredivisie	Dec 7, 2025
Twente	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	Nov 30, 2025

Recent Form:
Offensively, Twente have been consistent, averaging 2.20 goals per match in their last five fixtures, and have scored in every game during this period. Defensively, they have conceded just five goals, achieving two clean sheets along the way, indicating a solid backline. Their home form has been particularly strong, with a 60% win ratio and a recent three-game winning streak at De Grolsch Veste.

Ricky van Wolfswinkel stands out as a key player, leading the scoring charts with six goals this season. Twente’s tactical approach, characterised by high possession play and aggressive pressing, has been effective, as evidenced by their 54% possession against Feyenoord and an impressive total of 27 shots, reflecting their attacking intent. Currently sitting 7th in the Eredivisie with 25 points, Twente’s consistency at home and ability to secure results against challenging opponents could prove decisive in their push for higher standings.

• DWWDW

Twente Suspensions & Injuries

Twente face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. The absence of Mees Hilgers, who is out with a long-term cruciate ligament injury, significantly weakens their defensive options. Hilgers’ experience and defensive skills will be sorely missed, necessitating a reshuffle in the backline. Meanwhile, Naci Ünüvar, Max Bruns, and Taylor Booth are all doubtful with muscle injuries, which could disrupt Twente’s midfield dynamics. The muscle injuries to these players create uncertainty in their availability, potentially affecting the team’s creative and defensive midfield capabilities.

In light of these injuries, coach John van den Brom may need to rely on alternative players to fill the gaps. The likes of Bart van Rooij and Mats Rots might be tasked with stepping up in defence, while Mathias Kjölø and Thomas van den Belt could see increased responsibilities in the midfield. These replacements will need to perform at their peak to maintain the team’s competitive edge.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Max Bruns	Muscle injury	Uncertain
Mees Hilgers	Cruciate ligament injury	End of May 2026
Taylor Booth	Muscle injury	Uncertain
Naci Ünüvar	Muscle injury	Uncertain

Tactically, Twente might have to adopt a more conservative approach given the absence of key players. The lack of depth in certain positions could force them to focus on a solid defensive structure, relying on quick counter-attacks to exploit any weaknesses in PEC Zwolle’s setup. This tactical shift could influence the betting markets, as the team’s reduced attacking options may lower expectations for a high-scoring match.

The injuries could also impact Twente’s overall squad depth, limiting their ability to rotate players effectively. This could be a crucial factor as the match progresses, especially if the game demands high physical exertion. The team will need to manage their resources carefully to avoid further injuries and maintain a competitive stance throughout the match.

Twente Key Players

Ricky van Wolfswinkel stands as Twente’s top scorer with 6 goals this season, playing a pivotal role in their attacking setup. His experience and ability to find the back of the net make him a constant threat to any defence. Van Wolfswinkel’s movement off the ball and clinical finishing will be crucial as Twente look to capitalise on any defensive lapses from PEC Zwolle.

In midfield, Thomas van den Belt is a key figure with his robust playmaking abilities, offering both defensive cover and forward momentum. His partnership with Mathias Kjölø and Kristian Hlynsson is expected to control the tempo of the game. At the back, Robin Pröpper provides stability with his leadership and aerial prowess, essential for Twente’s defensive resilience.

Expected lineup for Twente

• Goalkeeper: Lars Unnerstall
• Defenders: Bart van Rooij, Stav Lemkin, Robin Pröpper, Mats Rots
• Midfielders: Mathias Kjölø, Thomas van den Belt, Kristian Hlynsson
• Forwards: Daan Rots, Sondre Ørjasæter, Sam Lammers

The tactical impact of these players is significant; van Wolfswinkel’s goal-scoring prowess combined with van den Belt’s midfield dynamism could dictate Twente’s approach. The defensive solidity offered by Pröpper is vital in maintaining a strong backline, crucial for Twente’s overall strategy against Zwolle.

Twente Tactics and Formation

Twente Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Sam Lammers
• Midfield Pivot: Mathias Kjölø and Thomas van den Belt
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession and numerous shots on goal.

Twente’s anticipated 4-2-3-1 formation allows them to maintain control in the midfield, with Mathias Kjölø and Thomas van den Belt anchoring the centre. This setup provides a balance between defensive stability and attacking support, crucial for transitioning the ball effectively to the forward line.

Offensively, Sam Lammers leads the attack, supported by creative midfielders like Daan Rots and Kristian Hlynsson. Twente’s offensive strategy focuses on high possession play, as evidenced by their 54% possession in the last game against Feyenoord, aiming to create numerous scoring opportunities with 27 shots.

Defensively, Twente have shown resilience, achieving two clean sheets in their last five matches. The backline, potentially led by Robin Pröpper, will need to adjust for the absence of Mees Hilgers, ensuring they continue their strong defensive record.

PEC Zwolle Analysis & Past Performance

PEC Zwolle’s recent form has been inconsistent, with the team securing two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five matches. Notably, they achieved a narrow 1-0 victory over Fortuna Sittard but suffered a heavy defeat against Feyenoord, losing 6-1.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Excelsior	PEC Zwolle	2 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	20 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	Fortuna Sittard	1 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	13 Dec 2025
Feyenoord	PEC Zwolle	6 – 1 (Loss)	Eredivisie	6 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	AZ Alkmaar	1 – 3 (Loss)	KNVB Cup	3 Dec 2025
PEC Zwolle	SC Heerenveen	2 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	28 Nov 2025

Recent Form:

• LWLLW

PEC Zwolle have shown attacking intent, averaging 1.40 goals per game over the last five fixtures. However, defensively, they appear vulnerable, conceding an average of 2.40 goals per match. Despite scoring in every game, they have managed only one clean sheet, indicating a need for defensive improvement. Their away form has been particularly challenging, with no wins in the last five away fixtures, which includes three losses and two draws.

PEC Zwolle Suspensions & Injuries

PEC Zwolle face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries. The absence of Odysseus Velanas, who is nursing an ankle injury and remains doubtful for the match, could significantly impact their creative midfield options. Velanas has been instrumental in linking up play and providing attacking thrust, and his absence will likely necessitate tactical adjustments from coach Henry van der Vegt. Jasper Schendelaar’s hip injury also leaves the team with a potential gap in goalkeeping options, adding to the defensive concerns.

The injuries to Samir Lagsir and David Voute further compound the team’s difficulties, as both players contribute depth and versatility to the squad. With these players sidelined, PEC Zwolle will need to rely on their bench strength and potentially adjust their formation to accommodate the available personnel. This could lead to a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive solidity to counterbalance the missing creative spark.

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

In terms of replacements, Tom de Graaff is expected to step in as the goalkeeper, a role he has filled in recent matches. His performance will be crucial in maintaining defensive stability. In midfield, the likes of Ryan Thomas and Zico Buurmeester may be tasked with filling the creative void left by Velanas, though replicating his impact will be challenging. The absence of these key players could influence the betting markets, potentially increasing the odds against PEC Zwolle securing a positive result against Twente.

With no suspensions adding to their woes, PEC Zwolle’s primary concern remains the injuries affecting their squad depth and tactical flexibility. The coaching staff will need to strategise effectively to mitigate these challenges and optimise the available resources. This situation underscores the importance of squad rotation and the ability of fringe players to step up in crucial matches.

PEC Zwolle Key Players

Koen Kostons stands out as PEC Zwolle’s top scorer, having netted 8 goals this season. His role as a forward is pivotal, offering both a finishing touch and the ability to exploit spaces behind the defence. Kostons’ clinical nature and movement off the ball make him a constant threat to Twente’s backline, and his performance could be decisive in this match.

Another key player in the lineup is Shola Shoretire, whose agility and creativity on the wing have been instrumental in breaking down opposition defences. In midfield, Ryan Thomas is expected to orchestrate play, using his vision to link defence and attack efficiently. Defensively, Anselmo García MacNulty provides stability, with his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions.

Expected lineup for PEC Zwolle

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

PEC Zwolle Tactics and Formation

PEC Zwolle Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Koen Kostons
• Midfield Pivot: Ryan Thomas and Zico Buurmeester
• Defensive Concerns: Conceded 12 goals in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession and quick midfield transitions.

PEC Zwolle typically line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which allows them to maintain a balance between attack and defence. Ryan Thomas, alongside Zico Buurmeester, forms a crucial midfield pivot, providing defensive cover and facilitating quick transitions to attack. Shola Shoretire, Kaj de Rooij, and Thijs Oosting will support Koen Kostons, the key forward, who has been pivotal with eight goals this season.

Defensively, PEC Zwolle face challenges, having conceded 12 goals in their last five matches. The backline, including Tristan Gooijer and Simon Graves Jensen, needs to tighten up to avoid further defensive frailties. The absence of key players such as Odysseus Velanas and Samir Lagsir due to injuries might necessitate tactical adjustments by coach Henry van der Vegt.

Offensively, PEC Zwolle emphasise maintaining possession and quick transitions through the midfield. This strategy is designed to exploit defensive gaps and create goal-scoring opportunities, although their effectiveness has been inconsistent, as reflected in their recent results.

Twente vs PEC Zwolle Head-to-Head Record

Twente and PEC Zwolle have faced off 31 times, with Twente leading the head-to-head record with 16 wins compared to Zwolle’s 6, and 11 matches ending in a draw. In their last meeting, PEC Zwolle managed a narrow 1-0 victory at home in the Eredivisie, showcasing their ability to challenge Twente.

The last time these two met at De Grolsch Veste, Twente secured a convincing 3-1 win in August 2023. This venue has been somewhat of a fortress for Twente, where they’ve consistently outperformed Zwolle, making them favourites when playing at home.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
PEC Zwolle	FC Twente	1 – 0	Eredivisie	2025-08-10
PEC Zwolle	FC Twente	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2025-04-13
FC Twente	PEC Zwolle	1 – 1	Eredivisie	2024-09-14
PEC Zwolle	FC Twente	1 – 2	Eredivisie	2024-05-19
FC Twente	PEC Zwolle	3 – 1	Eredivisie	2023-08-20