On Monday evening, April 21, 2025, the stage is set for an exhilarating cup final as AZ Alkmaar takes on Go Ahead Eagles in the prestigious TOTO KNVB Cup. The match is scheduled to kick off at 18:00 in the iconic De Kuip stadium in Rotterdam, where both teams will vie for the coveted trophy and a ticket to the competition phase of the UEFA Europa League.
This final is particularly thrilling as it features two teams from the Eredivisie, with both clubs finishing the regular season closely matched, each amassing 46 points. AZ, who finished sixth, will be looking to assert their dominance against the seventh-placed Go Ahead Eagles, a team that has captured the hearts of many with their underdog spirit.
However, AZ comes into this match with some concerns following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Heracles Almelo in their last outing. Coach Maarten Martens is expected to make several changes to the lineup in hopes of turning their fortunes around. Notably, Wouter Goes will return to the starting eleven after recovering from hamstring issues, while Alexandre Penetra will miss the final due to suspension after receiving two yellow cards in the semi-final against Heracles.
Bruno Martins Indi is set to step in for Penetra, while David Møller Wolfe returns from his own suspension, likely replacing Mees de Wit at left-back. Midfield dynamics will also shift with Sven Mijnans expected to start, pushing Kees Smit to the bench. Unfortunately for AZ, captain Jordy Clasie has been ruled out after failing to train all week, and Troy Parrott remains a doubt due to groin complaints. If deemed fit, Parrott could reclaim his spot in the starting lineup, which would mean Mexx Meerdink would return to the bench.
On the other side, Go Ahead Eagles are riding a wave of momentum and excitement. Their last training session before the final drew thousands of fans, showcasing the passionate support for the club. Coach Paul Simonis is likely to field the same eleven that drew 1-1 with NAC Breda in their last match. However, they will be without Jakob Breum, who is unavailable, and Dean James, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Aske Adelgaard is expected to take James’s place in the starting lineup, while Victor Edvardsen, Enric Llansana, and Evert Linthorst will comprise the midfield.
Fans of Go Ahead Eagles are buzzing with anticipation, with around 18,000 supporters expected to travel to De Kuip for the match. Stadium speaker Rob de Jong expressed his excitement about addressing the crowd in such a significant venue for the first time, saying, "There’s nothing like it. It’s a dream come true to announce the names of these players in front of a packed house."
Club analysts are also feeling the excitement, with Jan van Staa noting the growing enthusiasm around the club: "The madness surrounding the club and the confidence from recent performances will fuel the atmosphere tomorrow. It’s going to be a wild day." Former player and club legend Adrie Steenbergen echoed these sentiments, stating, "The closer we get to the final, the more the tension rises. Look at how many people showed up today; the club is alive and thriving!"
The 2024/25 KNVB Cup final marks the 106th edition of this historic tournament, and it’s a significant moment for both teams. AZ, with their rich history and experience, are favorites, but Go Ahead Eagles are determined to make a statement and potentially upset the odds.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, fans are eager to see whether AZ can reclaim their status or if Go Ahead Eagles can write a new chapter in their club’s history. The winner will not only take home the trophy but will also qualify for the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 and the Johan Cruijff Schaal 2025, adding even more stakes to this already thrilling encounter.
For those unable to attend, the match will be broadcast live on ESPN and Star Channel, with options available for streaming through the ESPN Watch app. Fans across the globe can use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions and join in on the excitement of this monumental match.
As the players prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable final, the anticipation is palpable. Will AZ assert their dominance, or will Go Ahead Eagles pull off a stunning victory? The stage is set, and the footballing world is watching closely.
