AZ Alkmaar Women Edge Past ADO Den Haag in Eredivisie Vrouwen Classic

The Eredivisie Vrouwen served up a captivating encounter on 16 August 2026 as AZ Alkmaar Women battled to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over ADO Den Haag Women. Played in the evening at the AZ training complex, the match had a little bit of everything: an early goal, a spirited comeback attempt, and a winner that showcased AZ’s attacking ambition. The result saw AZ continue their encouraging start to the season and underlined their growing credentials as contenders in the Dutch top flight.

Match Overview

AZ made a lightning start, taking the lead inside the opening ten minutes when a sweeping left-wing attack ended with a low drive into the far corner. The home side controlled the early exchanges, pressing ADO high up the pitch and forcing passes to go astray. ADO, however, grew into the game as the first half progressed. Their defensive discipline kept AZ at bay, and they posed a genuine threat from set pieces. Just before the break, the visitors equalised with a powerful header from a corner, leaving the teams level at half-time.

The second half was a more tense affair. Both teams battled fiercely in midfield, with clear-cut chances at a premium. AZ’s superior fitness and bench depth began to tell, and the winners arrived in the 78th minute. A quick switch of play found the substitute full-back in space, and her dangerous low cross was turned in at the near post by a forward making a well-timed run. ADO pushed forward in search of a second equaliser, but AZ held firm in the closing stages, securing all three points with a professional defensive display.

Key Moments

• 9' – AZ strike early: A well-weighted through ball split the ADO defence and the finish was cool and composed.
• 42' – ADO level from a corner: A towering header at the near post gave the AZ goalkeeper no chance.
• 78' – AZ win it: A brilliant cross-field pass opened up the visitors and the subsequent cross was converted at full stretch.
• 90+3' – Brave save: AZ's keeper made a superb stop from a late ADO free-kick to preserve the lead.

Tactical Story

AZ’s coach set his team up in an aggressive 4-3-3 shape, designed to dominate possession and press ADO’s build-up play high up the pitch. The tactic worked well in the early stages, but AZ began to lose control as the first half wore on. The introduction of a fresh striker and a quicker tempo in midfield changed the game after the hour mark, giving AZ renewed energy. ADO, meanwhile, were content to sit deep after their equaliser, searching for another set-piece opportunity. But after conceding the second goal, they struggled to create open play chances against an organised AZ back line.

Standout Players

AZ’s central midfield pairing was outstanding all evening, controlling the rhythm of the game and winning second balls against a stubborn ADO midfield. The player booked in for a key role was the left-winger, whose direct running caused concerns all night and who notched an assist as well as hitting the post in the second half. ADO’s goalkeeper also impressed, producing several smart saves to keep her team in contention until the late stages.

Season Impact

With this victory, AZ Alkmaar Women keep their Eredivisie Vrouwen title ambitions on track, earning a valuable three points that could prove significant in the race for the championship. ADO Den Haag Women will take heart from their performance, although they will be disappointed to leave with nothing after a spirited display. The result tightens the standings and promises a compelling season of women’s football in the Netherlands.