AZ Alkmaar put on a dominant display to thrash Heracles Almelo 4-0 at the AFAS Stadion, moving them into a strong position in the Eredivisie. The home side was in complete control from start to finish. AZ opened the scoring early with a flowing team move and never looked back, adding a second before the half-hour mark. Heracles offered little resistance, and AZ added two more goals in the second half to complete the rout. The comprehensive victory, coupled with a clean sheet, sends a strong message to the rest of the league as the season enters its decisive phase.