AZ Alkmaar has secured its place in the Dutch Cup final after overcoming Heracles Almelo through a tense penalty shoot-out on February 27, 2025. After the match ended 2-2 following extra time, the teams went to penalties, where AZ emerged victorious, even though Troy Parrott missed their second shot.
The clash took place at the Erve Asito stadium, which was filled to capacity with 12,080 spectators. Fans were treated to thrilling football where both teams demonstrated their attacking prowess. While AZ Alkmaar is known for its rich history, having won the KNVB Cup four times, Heracles aimed to upset the odds under the guidance of coach Erwin van de Looi.
AZ started the match with its established offensive line-up, featuring Parrott, Ernest Poku, and Ibrahim Sadiq supporting top-scorer Vangelis Pavlidis, who has netted over 15 goals this season. The team opened the scoring before Heracles equalized, setting the stage for extra time and eventual penalties.
The rain-drenched pitch created challenging conditions for both teams, yet players adapted quickly to the synthetic turf, which is known for favoring fast-paced football. The weather, dropping to 5°C, posed additional challenges for the players, but both teams delivered an entertaining spectacle.
AZ’s run to the final involved convincing earlier rounds, including decisive victories over MVV Maastricht (4-0) and RKC Waalwijk (3-0). Heracles, on the other hand, advanced after edging past Almere City, Go Ahead Eagles, and Excelsior.
Reflecting on the build-up to the game, expectations varied among commentators, with many favoring AZ. Betting platforms listed AZ's odds at 1.60 for the win, compared to Heracles’s 5.00. Historical matchups between the two teams leaned heavily toward AZ, which has won 28 out of 39 official encounters. Despite this, Heracles has made it clear they could not be underestimated, having previously claimed victory against AZ at home.
The match unfolded with both teams presenting specific tactics. AZ opted for its usual formation, the 4-2-3-1, with Mathew Ryan guarding the goal and defensive stalwarts like Yukinari Sugawara and Bruno Martins Indi anchoring the backline. For Heracles, veteran players like Luka Kulenovic, the season's top scorer for the team, sought to exploit defensive lapses.
“Every game against AZ Alkmaar is special, and we know we can surprise them at home,” said Heracles' star player before the match. This proved to be the spirit the team needed, famously defeating AZ previously, but they fell short this time around.
The penalty shoot-out saw AZ calm under pressure. Even with Parrott missing, his teammates maintained composure, ensuring their advancement through the knockout. This resilience highlights AZ's fortitude, which will be important as they prepare for the finals, set for May at De Kuip.
The significance of this win for AZ Alkmaar cannot be understated. Its fans expect nothing less than lifting the trophy, having witnessed their team's smooth progression through the competition. The emotional highs and lows of today’s clash culminate not only this cup run but also the aspirations for greater accomplishments this season.
Both teams now look to their forthcoming league fixtures, focusing on building momentum. For Heracles, this defeat is painful but serves as motivation to challenge again next season. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar will bask briefly in their triumph before redirecting focus on the final match, drawing nearer to securing more silverware.
Overall, the gripping encounter between AZ Alkmaar and Heracles Almelo culminated from intense competition, expert strategies, and raw emotions. While AZ celebrates, Heracles is left to regroup, each team etching another chapter of history through the quick-paced rhythms of Dutch football.