FC Noah vs. AZ Alkmaar: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups
FC Noah is set to make history in the UEFA Conference League as they face AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of the playoff round. The match will take place at Abovyan City Stadium, marking a significant milestone for Armenian football, as no Armenian team has ever progressed to this stage in European competition.
Match Preview: FC Noah vs AZ Alkmaar
Since its inception nine years ago, FC Noah has steadily climbed the ranks of Armenian football. This season, under head coach Sandro Perkovic, Noah reached the playoff stage after previously finishing in the top 24. Their standing improved significantly, from 31st to 19th in the league.
This season, Noah has managed to earn eight points from six matches, which is an improvement compared to last season’s total of just four points. Defensively, they exhibited a solid performance, conceding only seven goals in those matches. In comparison, their previous season saw them allow 16 goals, indicating growth in their defensive strategy.
Recent Form
- FC Noah’s Conference League record: Three wins at home out of four matches.
- Noah failed to win in four preseason friendly matches prior to this contest.
AZ Alkmaar also seeks to capitalize on their current form after an uneven January. Under interim coach Lee-Roy Echteld, they rebounded with three unbeaten games, including two victories over the competition.
AZ Alkmaar’s Recovery
AZ Alkmaar’s recent performances have placed them on an upward trajectory. They have accrued seven points from their last three league matches, including a significant 3-0 away win in continental competition. The Dutch side aims to maintain this momentum as they move into the playoff clash with Noah.
- AZ Conference League performance: Three points from the initial three matches improved significantly.
- Notable matches: Victories against Shelbourne (2-0) and Drita, with a goalless draw against Jagiellonia.
Team News and Key Players
FC Noah will be missing Goncalo Gregorio, who has been sidelined since July due to a knee injury. Nardin Mulahusejnovic stands out as the top scorer for Noah, contributing five goals and aiming to extend his tally in this crucial match.
On the AZ Alkmaar side, midfielder Sven Mijnans returns from injury and aims to contribute significantly. However, they will be without Mateo Chavez due to suspension, while injuries hinder several other players, including Jordy Clasie and Denso Kasius.
Predicted Lineups
| FC Noah | AZ Alkmaar |
|---|---|
| Fayulu | Zoet |
| Saintini, Silva, Eteki | Dijkstra, Goes, Penetra, De Wit |
| Boakye, Ferreira, Oshima, Sualehe | Boogaard, Koopmeiners |
| Jakolis, Mulahusejnovic, Aias | Patati, Mijnans, Jensen, Parrott |
Match Prediction
Both teams possess attacking capabilities, with Mulahusejnovic highlighting FC Noah’s threat and AZ’s returning talent like Mijnans. Despite Noah’s home advantage, AZ’s experience in European competition and improved form suggest they may narrowly win this contest, predicting a final score of FC Noah 1-2 AZ Alkmaar.
