Groningen vs PEC Zwolle - Eredivisie

When Groningen and PEC Zwolle clash at the home ground on September 18, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Eredivisie fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Ahead of the first leg of the UEFA Conference League play-off tie against Czech side Jablonec at Ibrox on Thursday, McInnes said: "I said that when I spoke to Lawrence.

In the Eredivisie table, Groningen currently occupy 9th and PEC Zwolle sit 16th, and the context adds genuine weight to what is already an intriguing fixture. The hosts have struggled for consistency, D in their last five pointing to a win rate of 33.33%. The visitors arrive short of confidence, LDLWL in their last five and a season win rate of just 16.67%. Where Groningen have built their campaign on solidity, PEC Zwolle have often chased flair, and that fundamental difference should make for compelling viewing. If he finds a way of those three players gelling and playing together - making one of them run in beyond - then Chelsea will have a very good season.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Groningen will look to impose their style on home soil, while PEC Zwolle are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Moving the Dane on frees up space and gives the Partenopei greater room to press ahead with their incoming transfer plans.

Individual quality could tip the balance. The league's leading scorer S. Tengstedt, with 5 goals to his name this season, is a reminder of the firepower on display. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. They are also interested in adding yet another midfielder and some competition for Benjamin Sesko up front.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. The weight of evidence points to Groningen, and a 2-1 win for the hosts feels like the most probable outcome. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. The 22-year-old was likely quite high up on the list of United's midfield targets and potentially even higher after Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga blows.