Cambuur - AZ Alkmaar

Cambuur arrive at this matchday 9 fixture with renewed confidence following a hard-fought 1-0 victory against PEC Zwolle. The hosts, who are expected to field Fabian Kvam in attack, have shown signs of stabilizing their defensive structure after a difficult start to the campaign. Hosting at Kooi Stadium on 18 October 2026, they face a stern test against an AZ Alkmaar side juggling domestic duties with European commitments. The home side will be eager to prove that their recent upturn in form is sustainable against established top-flight opposition.

AZ Alkmaar travel to the Kooi Stadium fresh from a midweek Europa League win over Hapoel Beer Sheva, though they must manage without the injured Kees Smit. While their recent domestic form has been inconsistent, including a 2-0 defeat to Feyenoord, the visitors have historically dominated this fixture. Previous encounters have often favoured the away side, and with Calvin Stengs expected to lead the line, they will look to control the tempo from the opening whistle.