In a thrilling end-of-season Eredivisie clash at the AFAS Stadion, AZ Alkmaar and NAC Breda played out a wild 3-3 draw that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. The match, played on 17 May 2026, featured six goals, dramatic momentum shifts, and late drama that ultimately saw both sides settle for a share of the spoils.

Match Overview

AZ Alkmaar entered the fixture looking to solidify their position in the upper half of the table, while NAC Breda were fighting for survival in the top flight. The game lived up to its billing, with both teams demonstrating attacking intent from the first minute. The hosts struck first, but the visitors responded with a resilient performance that showed why the Eredivisie is renowned for its unpredictability.

Key Moments

• 6' – AZ Alkmaar opened the scoring through a well-worked team move. A cross from the right found an unmarked forward who headed home past the NAC keeper.
• 23' – NAC Breda equalised against the run of play. A swift counter-attack caught the AZ defence off guard, with a clinical finish into the bottom corner.
• 38' – AZ regained the lead just before halftime, converting from a set piece. A corner was met powerfully at the near post, making it 2-1.
• 56' – The second half saw NAC Breda draw level again after a defensive lapse from AZ. A poorly cleared ball fell to an unmarked midfielder who fired home from 20 yards.
• 71' – NAC completed the turnaround, scoring their third goal to make it 3-2. A long ball over the top caught the AZ backline flat-footed, and the striker chipped the onrushing goalkeeper.
• 86' – AZ Alkmaar snatched a late equaliser in a dramatic finish. A penalty was awarded for a handball in the box, and the home side's top scorer stepped up to slot home the spot-kick.

Tactical Story

AZ Alkmaar dominated possession for large spells, but their high defensive line was repeatedly exposed by NAC's pace on the counter. The visitors employed a compact defensive shape and looked to break quickly through their wingers. AZ's midfield struggled to control the game after the break, allowing NAC to seize momentum. Both managers made attacking substitutions, leading to an open and frantic finale.

Standout Players

For AZ, the attacking midfielder was a constant threat with his passing range and movement. He was involved in two of the home side's goals. NAC's left winger was a constant menace, providing two assists and scoring the equaliser in the first half. The visitors' goalkeeper also made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game.

Season Impact

The draw left AZ Alkmaar in 5th place, missing out on European qualification by a narrow margin. For NAC Breda, the point was enough to secure their Eredivisie status for another season, sparking celebrations among their travelling fans. The match epitomised the excitement of Dutch football, with both teams leaving everything on the pitch.