SC Heerenveen - Excelsior

Dylan Vente spearheads the SC Heerenveen attack as they return to the Abe Lenstra Stadion for this matchday 9 Eredivisie encounter on 16 October 2026. The hosts look to regain their momentum after a difficult result against PSV Eindhoven, though they will have to manage without the injured Dirk Proper in midfield. With Levi Smans and Jacob Trenskow expected to anchor the center, the side aims to replicate the clinical form they displayed during their 4-0 away victory against Sparta Rotterdam last month.

Excelsior arrive looking to stabilize their defensive structure following a heavy defeat to FC Groningen. While their recent campaign has been defined by high-scoring draws and a notable 3-0 win over Willem II, they face a stern test against a Heerenveen side that has historically held the upper hand in recent head-to-head meetings. With Stijn van Gassel expected to start in goal, the visitors must contain the movement of Maxence Rivera to secure a result.