In an international club friendly held on 11 July 2026, AZ Alkmaar edged out Almere City FC 2-1 in a competitive pre-season encounter. The Dutch Eredivisie side showed their class with an early goal and a late winner, though Almere City pushed them all the way.

Match Overview

The match, played in a neutral venue as part of summer preparations, saw AZ take the lead inside the first ten minutes through a clinical finish. Almere City equalised shortly after the half-hour mark with a well-placed header. The second half was more controlled by AZ, who eventually found the winning goal in the 73rd minute via a counter-attack.

Key Moments

• 7' Goal (AZ): Quick combination play on the right wing led to a low cross and a tap-in at the far post.
• 33' Goal (Almere): A looping cross from the left was headed back across goal and into the net.
• 73' Goal (AZ): A fast break saw the striker race through and slot past the onrushing keeper.
• 85' Almere shot off post: A long-range effort struck the upright, AZ’s escape.

Tactical Story

AZ dominated possession as expected, using their technical superiority to control the tempo. Almere City set up to counter, and their equaliser came from a rare foray forward. In the second half, AZ increased their pressing intensity, forcing mistakes and creating the winning goal.

Standout Players

AZ’s central midfielder orchestrated play with precise passing, while their striker took both goals well. For Almere, the goalscorer and the goalkeeper kept the score respectable.

Friendly Context

As a pre-season friendly, the result matters less for standings but gives both coaches valuable data ahead of the new season. AZ will be pleased with their sharpness, while Almere showed they can compete with top-tier opposition.