Groningen Edge Local Rivals Emmen in Five-Goal Friendly Classic

Groningen emerged victorious in a local derby-friendly against Emmen, winning 3-2 in an International Club Friendly on July 11, 2026. The match, played under the evening lights, provided plenty of drama and goals for the supporters in attendance.

The Eredivisie side started brightly, taking the lead inside 15 minutes with a well-struck effort from outside the box. Emmen equalised shortly after, but Groningen regained the advantage before halftime with a clinical counter-attack. The second half saw Emmen level again early on, setting up a tense final half-hour. The decisive moment came when a Groningen forward latched onto a through ball and slotted home to make it 3-2. Despite late pressure from Emmen, Groningen held on for the win.

This friendly offered both teams a competitive test ahead of the new season. Groningen’s attacking trio looked sharp, while Emmen showed character to come back twice. The result gives Groningen momentum as they continue their pre-season preparations, with Emmen also taking positives from a spirited display against a higher-division opponent.