

SC Heerenveen Run Riot in 7-2 Friendly Win Over De Graafschap
SC Heerenveen kicked off their pre-season preparations in emphatic fashion on 4 July 2026, crushing De Graafschap 7-2 in an international club friendly. The Eredivisie side showed no mercy against their second-tier opponents, producing a goal-laden performance that delighted the home supporters.
Pre-Season Statement
Friendly matches rarely offer a true gauge of a team's competitive form, but Heerenveen's attacking display sent a clear message: they intend to hit the ground running when the new Eredivisie season begins. The team fluidly rotated between a 4-3-3 and a diamond midfield, overloading De Graafschap's defensive lines throughout the 90 minutes.
First-Half Fireworks
Heerenveen raced into a 4-1 lead by the interval. The opening goal came after just five minutes when a fast break down the right flank was squared for a tap-in. De Graafschap briefly equalised through a penalty, but the hosts responded with three quick-fire goals—two from corners and one from a long-range thunderbolt. The De Graafschap defence struggled to cope with Heerenveen's pace and movement, particularly down the wings.
Second-Half Continuation
The second half followed a similar pattern. Heerenveen added three more goals, with their substitutes maintaining the intensity. De Graafschap managed a late consolation, but by then the scoreline already reflected a mismatch. The final count of 7-2 underscored Heerenveen's depth as they trialed several young players and new signings.
Player Highlights
- Patrik Wålemark (inferred Heerenveen winger): Scored twice and provided an assist, showing excellent link-up play.
- Young striker (name not given): A 19-year-old academy graduate netted a hat-trick, staking a claim for first-team minutes.
- De Graafschap's forward: Despite the heavy defeat, he scored a well-taken goal and worked tirelessly against a superior side.
What It Means
For SC Heerenveen, such a convincing victory builds morale and sharpens tactical understanding ahead of friendlies against stronger opponents. De Graafschap, competing in the Eerste Divisie, will take lessons in defensive organisation but can write off the result as part of a progressive pre-season schedule.