De Graafschap W vs AZ W - Eredivisie Women

All eyes turn to the home ground on October 4, 2026 as De Graafschap W welcome AZ W in a Eredivisie Women encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. The 18‑year‑old midfielder featured off the bench in the Foxes’ Carabao Cup first‑round tie last weekend, but could still depart before the window closes.

A glance at the Eredivisie Women table tells the story: De Graafschap W in 5th and AZ W in 2nd, with positions to defend and places to climb. De Graafschap W have blown hot and cold, LLWL across their last five and a win rate of 25% that leaves room for improvement. On the road, AZ W have been equally impressive — WWWWW in their last five and a win rate of 100% for the campaign. Where De Graafschap W have leaned on defensive discipline, AZ W have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. It remains to be seen if Leeds will target a No 10 or a winger capable of playing inside now that Brandt is off the table.

The tactical subplot is compelling: De Graafschap W favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while AZ W are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. No wonder the skipper had talked of a 'new Aston Villa' in the pre-match press conference with what seemed like genuine excitement.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Against Leverkusen, what turned out to be the winning goal was scored by David Mokwa, a young striker plucked from Hoffenheim's reserves in January.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Given the balance of the numbers, AZ W look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-2 away victory is a distinct possibility. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.