The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as AZ Alkmaar and Go Ahead Eagles prepare to battle for the coveted TOTO KNVB Beker at De Kuip in Rotterdam. Scheduled for April 21, 2025, at 18:00, this final represents a significant moment for both clubs, with AZ chasing their fifth cup victory and Go Ahead Eagles aiming for their first-ever triumph.
AZ, a club with a rich history in this competition, has previously lifted the trophy in 1978, 1981, 1982, and 2013. The Alkmaarders have been a dominant force in Dutch football, but they face a challenging season this year, currently sitting sixth in the Eredivisie standings. A victory in the cup could redeem what has been a disappointing league campaign, as they are unlikely to secure a top-four finish.
On the other hand, Go Ahead Eagles find themselves in a similar situation, positioned just behind AZ in the league table. The Deventer club, under the guidance of debuting coach Paul Simonis, is hoping to replicate their previous success in the playoffs, having won them last season. However, the Eagles have never tasted success in this prestigious cup, and a win would mark a historic moment for the club.
Both teams come into this match with mixed form. AZ suffered a setback last week, losing 1-0 to Heracles in Almelo, a repeat of their semi-final encounter in February, which they won on penalties. Meanwhile, Go Ahead Eagles have also struggled recently, with a loss to Feyenoord and draws against FC Utrecht and NAC Breda. However, prior to those matches, they enjoyed a four-game winning streak, including two impressive victories over PSV.
Oliver Antman has been a standout performer for Go Ahead Eagles, contributing to nine of their last twelve league goals with five assists and four goals. With 14 assists, he leads the Eredivisie in that category, and his form will be crucial in the final. Fans are eager to see if he can replicate his success on the big stage, with betting odds favoring him to score or provide an assist during the match.
In the lead-up to the final, excitement is palpable among supporters. Long queues formed outside De Kuip as fans from both clubs made their way to the stadium, eager to witness this historic clash. However, the journey to the final was not without its challenges. Earlier on the day of the match, two buses carrying AZ fans collided in the Wijkertunnel, resulting in five injuries. Fortunately, replacement buses were dispatched to ensure that fans could still reach the stadium in time.
As the players arrived at De Kuip, the atmosphere was electric. The absence of experienced midfielder Jordy Clasie for AZ raised some eyebrows, as the club's 19-year-old Kees Smit took his place in the starting lineup. Clasie’s leadership and experience would have been invaluable, but AZ remains confident in their squad's depth and capability.
AZ's confidence is echoed in their locker room, where a motivational quote hangs on the wall: "I think everyone in our team thinks we are the favorites." This sentiment, expressed by Go Ahead's own Oliver Antman, highlights the competitive spirit that both teams carry into the match. AZ's Sven Mijnans acknowledged that while Go Ahead is in good form, the match is an open contest where anything can happen.
For Go Ahead Eagles, this final is a chance to make history. Having lost their only previous appearance in the KNVB Beker final in 1965 against Feyenoord, the team is determined to rewrite that narrative. Mats Deijl, the club captain, emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment while remaining focused on the task at hand. "We have to enjoy it, but it should not turn into a school trip," he stated, highlighting the balance between celebration and professionalism.
The stakes are high for both teams, as the winner of the KNVB Beker not only secures a trophy but also qualifies for the league phase of the Europa League. This opportunity opens the door to eight European matches, making it a financially lucrative endeavor as well. The starting bonus for participating in the Europa League is a hefty 4.31 million euros, a significant sum for either club.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds. The final is notable not only for the teams involved but also for the absence of traditional powerhouses like Ajax, Feyenoord, and PSV, marking it the sixth time since 2000 that the KNVB Beker final will not feature these giants. This shift in dynamics has opened the door for clubs like AZ and Go Ahead Eagles to shine on the national stage.
With both teams evenly matched in terms of points in the Eredivisie, the cup final promises to be a thrilling encounter. AZ has historically dominated their recent meetings, winning six times since Go Ahead's promotion in 2021, but the Eagles managed to secure a draw in their most recent encounter earlier this season.
As fans fill the stands and the players take to the pitch, the atmosphere in De Kuip will be electric. The iconic stadium, known for hosting significant matches, will witness this clash of ambition and history. Who will emerge victorious? Will AZ claim their fifth KNVB Beker title, or will Go Ahead Eagles finally lift the trophy for the first time in their history? Only time will tell as the final unfolds.
The match can be viewed live on ESPN, with kick-off set for 18:00. Fans are encouraged to tune in and support their teams as they battle for glory in one of Dutch football's most prestigious competitions.
