Sparta Rotterdam vs Willem II - Eredivisie

There is a notable edge to this Eredivisie fixture. When Sparta Rotterdam meet Willem II at Sparta-Stadion Het Kasteel on October 17, 2026, both will sense an opportunity to land a telling blow. Manchester United drew 1-1 with Paris Saint-Germain in their fourth pre-season fixture of the summer on Saturday.

Sparta Rotterdam head into the contest positioned 14th in the Eredivisie standings, while Willem II arrive sitting 18th. The hosts have mirrored the form of a side still searching for rhythm — DLLDL over their last five, a win rate of 26.47%. Willem II have found wins elusive, LLLDL in their last five underscoring a win rate of 8.82%. The contrast in attacking output — 1.24 versus 1.09 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Central midfield remains a position Leeds are keen to add in despite so far failing to reach an agreement with Southampton for Shea Charles.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Sparta Rotterdam will look to impose their style on home soil, while Willem II are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Their press is quick and co-ordinated in some areas of the pitch and not others.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman S. Tengstedt — 6 goals this term — will be one to watch. Whoever wins the individual duel between the two sides' chief playmakers is likely to dictate the rhythm and, ultimately, the destination of the points. United's interest has reportedly cooled, with Dortmund reportedly demanding €100million (£85.8m) for the midfielder.

The bookmakers make Sparta Rotterdam the favourites at 1.5200, with the draw priced at 4.4000 and an Willem II win at 5.2500. The bookmakers' pricing points firmly towards Sparta Rotterdam, whose home record and form make them the side to beat. The evidence overwhelmingly favours Sparta Rotterdam, and a comfortable 1-1 home win looks the most likely outcome. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.