NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior - Eredivisie

The Eredivisie returns to the home ground on September 8, 2026, where NEC Nijmegen and Excelsior will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. The 25-year-old suffered the injury after an inadvertent clash with his own team-mate as he and Mathias Olivera both challenged for possession late in the first half.

The standings paint a clear picture: NEC Nijmegen in 10th, Excelsior in 6th, and both keen to climb. NEC Nijmegen have blown hot and cold, LDLWL across their last five and a win rate of 33.33% that leaves room for improvement. Excelsior have travelled reasonably well, LDWWL over their last five with a season win rate of 50%. Where NEC Nijmegen have leaned on defensive discipline, Excelsior have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. In his latest column, Paul Merson predicts the 2026/27 Premier League season at both ends of the table.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. NEC Nijmegen may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Excelsior have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. The Germany club were said to be looking for an out-and-out striker to allow Harry Kane to play a deeper role, and made an approach for Sesko in 2024.

When G. Zechiël is on the pitch — 5 goals to his name this term — moments of magic are never far away, and the Eredivisie's top scorer will be central to how this one unfolds. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. Newcastle United have started searching for a new midfielder as Bruno Guimarães moves closer to joining Arsenal.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Excelsior look well-equipped to take the points on the road, with a 2-3 victory well within their reach. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Eredivisie picture. Fulham's Antonee Robinson could be one of those, who would likely be a cheaper alternative to Hall, who has just enjoyed a breakout season with the Magpies.