Excelsior '31 vs Purmersteijn - Derde Divisie

The Derde Divisie returns to the home ground on September 12, 2026, where Excelsior '31 and Purmersteijn will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Manchester United drew 1-1 with Paris Saint-Germain in their fourth pre-season fixture of the summer on Saturday.

Positionally there is a clear hierarchy: Excelsior '31 sit 4th, Purmersteijn lie 7th, but the Derde Divisie has a habit of defying such logic. Excelsior '31 have found a groove, DLWWW across their last five and operating at a win rate of 60% this season. Purmersteijn have travelled reasonably well, D over their last five with a season win rate of 40%. The contrast in attacking output — 2.8 versus 1.8 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. The midfielder faces a significant period on the sidelines after being stretchered off during Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the recent FIFA World Cup.

The tactical subplot is compelling: Excelsior '31 favour a possession-based game built on patience and control, while Purmersteijn are happiest sitting deep and exploding forward on the counter — a classic contrast of philosophies. Schalke were third bottom for possession in winning the second tier, let alone facing Bayern.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. Discipline at the back and sharpness in front of goal will likely tilt the balance one way or the other. In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson says he would be worried by Roberto De Zerbi's post-match comments criticising Spurs' forward players and medical staff.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. On balance, Excelsior '31 look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 3-2 home win would not come as a surprise. Whatever the outcome, the Derde Divisie fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.