GO Ahead Eagles vs AZ Alkmaar - Eredivisie

A fascinating Eredivisie chapter awaits on April 23, 2026 when GO Ahead Eagles take on AZ Alkmaar at the home ground — two sides with plenty to play for and everything to prove. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

There is little to choose between GO Ahead Eagles and AZ Alkmaar on paper, and the Eredivisie encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts have struggled for consistency, D in their last five pointing to a win rate of 33.33%. The visitors have been a force on their travels, D in their last five and a campaign win rate of 83.33% that demands respect. The contrast in attacking output — 2.5 versus 2.83 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. One position every Premier League club still needs to strengthen in before the transfer window closes.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. GO Ahead Eagles will look to impose their style on home soil, while AZ Alkmaar are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. But this approach also takes something that is almost anonymous in football - time.

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. 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. United are keen on signing the Newcastle United defender, but will move to sign the United States international if they're unable to sign the England full-back.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 3-3. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Eredivisie standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.