AZ Alkmaar Women and FC Twente Enschede Women played out a hard-fought 1–1 draw in an international club friendly on Tuesday evening, July 14, 2026, at a pre-season training ground in the Netherlands. Both sides used the contest to test squad depth and tactical ideas ahead of the upcoming domestic campaign, with the result reflecting the close parity between two of the Eredivisie Vrouwen’s top clubs.

Match Overview

The friendly match, held behind closed doors as part of both teams’ summer preparations, saw AZ Alkmaar take the lead in the first half before FC Twente equalised after the interval. With neither side able to find a winner, the 1–1 scoreline offered a useful workout for players and coaching staff alike.

FC Twente, the reigning Eredivisie Vrouwen champions, came into the fixture as slight favourites, but AZ Alkmaar’s disciplined defensive organisation and quick transitions kept the game evenly balanced. The match was played at a high tempo, with both teams pressing aggressively from the opening whistle.

First Half – AZ Strike First

AZ Alkmaar Women started brightly, creating the first clear chance inside ten minutes when a cross from the right flank was headed just wide. Their persistence paid off midway through the first period. A swift counter-attack caught the Twente defence out of shape, and AZ’s forward slotted home a low finish past the goalkeeper to make it 1–0.

FC Twente responded with increased possession but found AZ’s backline well-marshalled. The champions’ best opportunity before half-time came from a set piece that was headed over the bar. At the break, AZ held a deserved 1–0 lead.

Second Half – Twente’s Composed Response

The second half saw Twente exert more control in midfield. Coach Joran Pot’s side made several substitutions early in the period, injecting fresh legs and energy. Their pressure eventually told in the 67th minute when a well-worked move down the left flank ended with a precise finish to level the scores at 1–1.

Both teams continued to push for a winner. AZ came close when a long-range effort forced a sharp save from the Twente keeper, while the visitors hit the post from a corner kick in the closing stages. Despite late chances at both ends, the match ended all square.

Key Performers

• AZ Alkmaar: The home side’s goalkeeper impressed with several crucial saves, while the goalscorer showed composure in front of goal. The central defensive partnership also stood out for their resilience.
• FC Twente: The equaliser came from a substitute who made an immediate impact. Twente’s midfield controlled large parts of the second half, and their full-backs provided width in attack.

Importance for Pre-Season

For AZ Alkmaar Women, the draw provides a solid foundation as they look to improve on their mid-table finish from last season. The team showed they can compete with the league’s best in patches, but consistency over 90 minutes remains a work in progress.

FC Twente Enschede Women, meanwhile, continue their unbeaten pre-season run. The match served as a valuable test of their depth and ability to respond after falling behind. With the new Eredivisie Vrouwen season approaching, manager Pot will be pleased with the fighting spirit shown by his squad.

This friendly offered a glimpse of the competitive edge expected in the upcoming campaign, with both AZ Alkmaar and FC Twente demonstrating why they are among the most respected women’s football clubs in the Netherlands.