RKC Waalwijk 1 – 1 AZ Alkmaar Youth | International Club Friendly | 4 July 2026

RKC Waalwijk and AZ Alkmaar Youth played out a 1-1 draw in a pre-season friendly on Saturday evening. The match served as useful preparation for both sides, with RKC using the game to build fitness ahead of the new Eredivisie campaign and AZ’s young prospects keen to impress.

Match Summary

AZ Alkmaar Youth started brightly, moving the ball quickly and pressing high. Their efforts paid off in the 22nd minute when a well-worked move ended with a composed finish from inside the area. RKC, however, grew into the contest and equalised just before the break through a header from a corner.

The second half saw plenty of substitutions as both coaches rotated their squads. Chances were few and far between, but RKC hit the post late on, while AZ’s goalkeeper made a sharp save to preserve the draw.

What We Learned

• RKC’s set-piece threat: Their equaliser came from a corner, a weapon they will rely on in the Eredivisie.
• AZ youth talent: The visitors showed good technical ability, particularly in midfield, suggesting a bright future for the club’s academy graduates.

Friendly Context

This match was part of a series of pre-season friendlies for both clubs. For RKC, it was their third outing of the summer, with head coach focused on integrating new signings. AZ Alkmaar Youth are using these games to give young players senior experience before the start of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie or potential loans.

Next up for RKC is a meeting with FC Utrecht, while AZ Youth face a test against FC Twente’s second string.