AZ Alkmaar 3 – 2 Olympiacos Piraeus

International Club Friendly – High‑Quality Contest
Date: 25 July 2026 | Venue: AFAS Stadion, Alkmaar

AZ Alkmaar edged out Greek giants Olympiacos Piraeus 3‑2 in a thrilling pre‑season encounter. The Eredivisie side showcased their attacking flair, but Olympiacos fought back twice, making for an open and entertaining game with plenty of goal‑mouth action.

Match Overview

The match started at a frantic pace. AZ took an early lead through a clinical finish, only for Olympiacos to level with a stunning long‑range effort. The hosts regained the advantage before halftime with a well‑worked team goal. Olympiacos again equalised early in the second half, leaving the game finely poised. The winner came midway through the second period, when AZ’s winger cut inside and unleashed a deflected drive that beat the goalkeeper. Both teams had chances to add to the tally, but the score remained 3‑2.

Key Moments

• 6’ Goal (1‑0): AZ’s striker latched onto a through ball and slotted low into the far corner.
• 17’ Goal (1‑1): Olympiacos’s midfielder received a pass 25 yards out and hammered a shot into the top corner.
• 38’ Goal (2‑1): A quick one‑two on the edge of the box freed AZ’s forward, who finished with composure.
• 52’ Goal (2‑2): Olympiacos’s winger headed home from a cross after a corner was partially cleared.
• 67’ Goal (3‑2): AZ’s winger drove infield from the right and his shot took a wicked deflection, sending the keeper the wrong way.

Tactical Battle

AZ pressed high and moved the ball quickly in transition, exploiting the spaces behind Olympiacos’s advanced full‑backs. The Greek side, however, showed excellent passing ability and created chances through quick combinations in central areas. Defensive lapses on both sides kept the game open. AZ’s willingness to take risks in possession was ultimately rewarded.

Standout Performers

• AZ’s Winger: Scored the winner and provided an assist, constantly troubling the Olympiacos defence with his dribbling.
• Olympiacos’s Midfield General: Scored a wonder goal and controlled the midfield for large spells, showing why he is a key player.

What It Means

AZ Alkmaar will be delighted with their attacking output, though defensive concerns remain as they prepare for the new Eredivisie season. Olympiacos, in the midst of their pre‑season build‑up, can take positives from their resilience and ability to create chances. Friendlies of this calibre provide excellent preparation for the demands of UEFA club competitions later in the season.