AZ vs Elfsborg: Europa League Match Prediction
AZ is confidently navigating the early part of the season, currently sitting in second place in the league without having lost a single match. In contrast, Elfsborg has managed just one victory in their last five games across all competitions and is clearly not at their best right now. Should we anticipate a strong home victory on September 25 in the opening round of the Europa League? Our expert provides insights in the upcoming prediction. What bets should you consider today?

Command Analysis

AZ Alkmaar

Current Form
Last season, AZ finished fourth in the Eredivisie, securing a direct spot in the group stage of the UEFA Europa League. This allows the team to continue its consistent presence in European competitions dating back to the 2018/19 season. The new season has started exceptionally well for head coach Maarten Martens’ squad, remaining unbeaten in six league matches. Their only setback was a goalless draw away against Groningen. Currently, AZ is in second place in the standings, just two points behind PSV. It's worth noting their dominant 9-1 victory over Heerenveen, highlighting their attacking prowess. If given space, AZ's offense can overwhelm any opponent.
Disciplinary and Injury Updates
It's impressive that AZ continues to achieve success despite a number of players sidelined with injuries. Today, Lahdo, de Wit, Martins Indi, Vitesse, Poku, and Schouten will not be available to aid their team.
Interesting Betting Trends
- In their last six Europa League matches, AZ has scored no more than three goals.
- AZ has won seven of their last eight home games.
Projected Lineup: Ovusso-Oduro – Maikuma, Gus, Penetra, Wolfe – Klaas, Koopmeiners – Sadik, Mijnans, van Bommel – Parrott.

Elfsborg

Current Form
Elfsborg successfully navigated four qualifying rounds to reach the main stage of the Europa League. Their toughest challenge came in the decisive match against Molde, where they overcame the Norwegian side only after a penalty shootout. In the Swedish league, Oscar Hiljemark's squad currently sits fifth and heads into their upcoming European clash after two consecutive draws against Norrköping (2-2) and Hammarby (0-0). Overall, Elfsborg has secured just one victory in their last five matches.
Disqualifications and Injuries
The team has no problems with their squad.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Elfsborg has remained unbeaten in their last eight away matches
- In their last eight away games, Elfsborg has consistently found the back of the net
Probable Starting XI: Pettersson – Holmen, Buchari, Jegbe – Hedlund, B. Zeneli, Ouma, Hult – A. Zeneli, Baidu, Kasem.
Trends
Bet AZ to score in the first half
In the last three matches, the hosts scored goals in the first 45 minutes
1.62Bet 1st half: total under 1.5 goals
This bet has paid off in the last three matches of Elfsborg
1.65Bet Exact score 3:1
AZ secured their last two victories by exchanging goals with their opponents
11.00Tip and bets
Currently, AZ is performing at an exceptional level, making it unlikely they will hand points to an opponent of lower caliber. The team, under the leadership of Martens, showcases a balanced style of play across all positions, with players fully aware of their roles in various situations. When given space, the attacking force of the hosts can frequently find the back of the net. Elfsborg is known for its bold and open play, making it an ideal matchup for AZ.
Our prediction is an AZ victory with an Asian handicap of (-1) at odds of 1.77.
Total Bet
When considering bets for the match, it's important to note that Elfsborg has scored in their last eight away games. Meanwhile, AZ is unlikely to finish the game without scoring on their home turf, given their formidable attacking strength.
The second bet is both teams to score with odds of 1.75.
Corners Bet
We believe Elfsborg should not be underestimated when it comes to corners. The Swedes have secured more corners in their last six matches.
Prediction - Elfsborg to win on corners with a handicap (+3.5) at odds of 1.63.