AZ Alkmaar’s knockout record shows they are capable of causing an upset against Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Tottenham Hotspur’s round of 16 opponent in the Europa League has long been confirmed as Dutch side AZ Alkmaar.
This is not the first time the two teams will be locking horns, as they previously met in the League phase on matchday three. Spurs secured victory on that occasion, edging the contest through a Richarlison penalty.
While Ange Postecoglou’s side will be confident of progressing over two legs, history suggests this tie will not be as straightforward as it might seem.
AZ Alkmaar have won eight from their last nine
According to stats shared by the official Europa League X account, AZ Alkmaar have been formidable in their recent European knockout ties – enough to send a warning to Tottenham Hotspur.
In their last nine two-legged encounters, the Dutch side have triumphed in eight—a record that underlines their ability to navigate these situations successfully.
On Thursday, they will be looking to pull off another shock, much like they did against Galatasaray in the play-off round.
That tie saw AZ dismantle the Turkish giants 6-3 on aggregate, including a dominant 4-1 home leg victory that all but sealed their progression.
Tottenham must remain alert against AZ Alkmaar
Ange Postecoglou’s men will need to be switched on from the first whistle, as a sluggish start could see them needing to overturn a deficit in the second leg—something they will want to avoid.
Of course, Spurs do hold the advantage, having had ample rest ahead of the clash, whereas Alkmaar were pushed to extra time in their recent cup match.
That extra freshness could be a decisive factor, but only if Tottenham make it count on the night. The first-leg tie is set to take place at the AFAS Stadium on Thursday, 6 March 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:45 UK time.