Almere City FC 2–1 Volendam
International Club Friendly, 15 July 2026 – 17:30 local time

Almere City FC edged past Eredivisie rivals Volendam 2-1 in a pre-season friendly that offered a glimpse of both sides’ preparations for the upcoming campaign. The match, played at a neutral training complex, saw Almere come from behind to secure a hard-fought victory.

Match Overview

Both teams used the friendly to test fitness and tactical setups, with plenty of substitutions in the second half. Volendam started brightly and took an early lead, but Almere responded with two quick goals before the interval and then managed the game effectively in the second period. The result gives Almere momentum as they gear up for the new Eredivisie season.

First Half – Quick exchanges

Volendam struck first in the 12th minute. A well-worked move down the left saw the ball crossed into the box, where forward Jordi van der Heijden arrived to head past the Almere goalkeeper. The visitors looked sharp in possession, but Almere gradually grew into the game.

Almere equalised in the 28th minute. A defensive mix-up in the Volendam backline allowed striker Thomas van den Berg to pounce, rounding the keeper and slotting into an empty net. The home side then completed the turnaround just before half-time: a free kick from the edge of the area was driven low through the wall by midfielder Ryan Koolwijk, giving the Volendam keeper little chance.

Second Half – Controlled approach

The second half was less eventful in terms of goals, as both managers made wholesale changes. Almere sat deeper, inviting Volendam to push forward, but the second-tier side lacked the cutting edge to find an equaliser. Volendam’s best chance came from a long-range shot that was tipped over the bar, while Almere hit the post on a counter-attack late on.

Despite the absence of high intensity, the friendly served its purpose: players gained minutes, new tactical patterns were rehearsed, and fitness levels were pushed. The 2-1 win will please Almere head coach Jeroen Rijsdijk.

Key Takeaways

• Almere’s resilience – After conceding first, they responded quickly and showed mental toughness.
• Volendam’s finishing – Dominated possession but lacked accuracy in front of goal, a concern ahead of the league season.
• Pre-season rotation – Multiple substitutions disrupted rhythm but gave valuable game time to squad players.

Season Implications

Almere City FC, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, will take confidence from a victory over an Eredivisie rival. Volendam, newly promoted back to the top flight, will need to sharpen their attack if they are to compete. Both teams have two more friendlies scheduled before the league begins.