AZ Alkmaar vs. Tottenham Hotspur: Game Analysis, Betting Tips – Europa League

Introduction

The Europa League Round of 16 heats up as AZ Alkmaar hosts Tottenham Hotspur at the AFAS Stadion on March 6, 2025. With both teams vying for a spot in the quarterfinals, this encounter promises to be an exciting battle.

Tottenham, struggling to find consistency in the Premier League, views this competition as a golden opportunity to secure silverware and a Champions League spot. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar, known for their attacking football and strong home form, will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Spurs’ defense.

Bettors can expect an intense, high-scoring game with both teams bringing firepower. Let’s break down the latest team news, key insights, betting odds, and expert tips.

Team News & Key Insights

Recent Form:

• AZ Alkmaar: Unbeaten in 14 of their last 16 home games across all competitions, AZ has turned the AFAS Stadion into a fortress. They secured an emphatic 4-1 win over Galatasaray in the previous Europa League round, showcasing their attacking strength.
• Tottenham Hotspur: Despite their inconsistent domestic form, Spurs have won five of their last eight Europa League fixtures. They edged past AZ 1-0 earlier in the competition, but their away record remains shaky.

Head-to-Head:

• The only recent meeting between these two sides ended in a 1-0 victory for Tottenham, with Richarlison netting the winner.
• AZ has historically struggled against English sides but will be eager to turn things around in front of their home crowd.

Injuries & Suspensions:

• AZ Alkmaar:
  • Out: Ruben van Bommel, Mexx Meerdink, Jayden Addai, and Sven Mijnans (all injured).
  • Key player: Former Spurs striker Troy Parrott (17 goals this season) will lead the line against his former club.
• Tottenham:
  • Out: Dejan Kulusevski (foot injury).
  • Returning: Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero bolster Spurs’ defense, while Dominic Solanke is back in attack.

Expert Betting Tips

For those looking to place bets, here are our top recommendations:

• Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes @ 1.60
  • AZ has scored in 14 of their last 16 home games, while Spurs have conceded in 9 of their last 12 away matches.
• Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.70
  • With both teams possessing attacking threats, a goal-fest is highly possible.
• AZ Alkmaar +0.75 Asian Handicap @ 1.85
  • AZ has been strong at home and could either win or draw, covering this bet.
• Son Heung-min to Score Anytime @ 2.50
  • The Spurs forward remains their biggest goal threat, especially with Kulusevski out.
• Match Draw @ 3.40
  • Tottenham’s inconsistency away from home makes a stalemate a realistic outcome.

Final Prediction & Verdict

This Europa League showdown is shaping up to be a thrilling encounter. AZ Alkmaar’s home advantage and attacking quality will trouble Spurs, but the return of key players in defense gives Tottenham a slight edge.

Predicted Score: AZ Alkmaar 2 – 2 Tottenham Hotspur

Expect goals, drama, and an open contest as both teams push for a favorable result. Bettors should focus on goal-related markets for the best value.