AZ Alkmaar picked up a dramatic 3-2 away victory over SC Heerenveen in an entertaining Eredivisie clash on 6 September 2026. The match at the Abe Lenstra Stadion delivered end-to-end action, five goals, and a narrow result that keeps AZ moving in the right direction in the early stages of the campaign.

AZ looked sharp from the opening minutes and took an early lead through a well-taken finish after a rapid break down the left. Heerenveen responded well to going behind and found an equaliser shortly before the half-hour mark, converting after a scramble in the AZ penalty area. The tempo remained high, and AZ restored their advantage just before halftime with a smart strike from inside the box.

Heerenveen fight back but AZ hold on

Heerenveen came out with renewed energy in the second half and managed to level the scores again after a sustained period of pressure. Their second goal arrived from a set-piece situation, with a powerful header beating the AZ goalkeeper from close range.

With the score at 2-2, the match became an open contest. Both teams pushed for a winning goal, and it was AZ who found it, punishing Heerenveen with another clinical counter-attack. The visitors managed the closing minutes with composure, despite a late spell of Heerenveen pressure that forced several important saves.

Key talking points from a five-goal thriller

• AZ’s attacking efficiency made the difference, particularly on the counter-attack.
• SC Heerenveen showed character to come from behind twice, but costly defensive lapses proved decisive.
• The result is a boost for AZ in the Eredivisie standings while Heerenveen will look to tighten up before their next match.

For neutral fans, the match was an advertisement for attacking Dutch football. But in the end, AZ Alkmaar’s sharper edge in key moments secured a valuable three points away from home.