De Graafschap’s pre-season preparations suffered a heavy setback on 1 August 2026 as Excelsior SBV ran out emphatic 5-1 winners in an International Club Friendly at De Vijverberg. The Superboeren, preparing for another challenging campaign in the Dutch second tier, were outplayed by a confident Excelsior side that looked sharp in all departments. The result underlined the gap in rhythm and cohesion between the two teams at this stage of the summer.

Excelsior’s attacking firepower proves decisive

Excelsior, who have made a habit of producing dangerous transitions in recent seasons, took control of the contest early. Their movement off the ball caused constant problems for the De Graafschap defence, and by the interval they had already built a lead that left the home side with a mountain to climb. The Rotterdam-based club showed clinical finishing in front of goal, converting their chances with composure and punishing every defensive lapse.

De Graafschap did manage to pull a goal back in the second half, briefly giving the home supporters something to cheer. However, any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished as Excelsior restored their multi-goal advantage and then added further gloss to the scoreline. The final 5-1 outcome reflected Excelsior’s overall dominance, though the home side will be keen to put the defeat down to pre-season experimentation and heavy squad rotation.

What the result means for both squads

For Excelsior, this was a statement performance. Facing a physically committed De Graafschap side, they combined high pressing with swift, direct passing and looked like a team ready for the competitive challenges ahead. The coaching staff will have taken plenty of positives from the way their forwards linked up and the efficiency in the final third.

De Graafschap, by contrast, will use the result as a wake-up call. Pre-season friendlies are about building fitness and sharpness, and while a heavy defeat is never welcome, it offers the coaching staff clear insight into defensive vulnerabilities and the need for better concentration. With the new season approaching, the Superboeren will be expected to tighten up significantly in their remaining fixtures.

Key observations

• Excelsior’s confidence in front of goal: Five different scoring routes kept De Graafschap guessing throughout.
• De Graafschap’s response: The home side showed character after the break but lacked sustained quality in possession.
• Pre-season context: Both clubs continue to use these matches to fine-tune tactics and integrate new players.

While the result carries no points, it serves its purpose as a demanding test. Excelsior will leave Doetinchem with momentum, while De Graafschap now know exactly what needs improvement before the serious business of the season gets underway.