PEC Zwolle v AZ: play-off push meets mid-table buffer | OneFootball

PEC Zwolle host AZ in the Eredivisie on Saturday, 17 January 2026 in Zwolle, with the visitors chasing the qualification play-off places and the hosts looking to add breathing space above the relegation fight.

AZ have had the edge in recent meetings, winning 3-1 in the KNVB Beker in December in Zwolle, while the league match in September finished 2-2. PEC Zwolle's recent run includes a draw at FC Twente, defeat at Excelsior and a home win over Fortuna Sittard.

Form has swung towards AZ this month. They beat Volendam 1-0 and then thrashed Ajax 6-0 in the cup. Zwolle's mixed sequence leaves them mid-table, and they will look to tighten up after heavy defeat at Feyenoord and narrow setbacks on the road.

Availability could matter. PEC Zwolle list Odysseus Velanas, goalkeeper Jasper Schendelaar, Samir Lagsir and David Voute as injured. AZ have Denso Kasius and Mexx Meerdink sidelined.

On the numbers, AZ may look to control the ball, averaging 54% possession with 83.36% passing accuracy and 206 total shots this season. Zwolle average 42% possession and have conceded 39 league goals. Jizz Hornkamp (10 league goals, joint third scorer) and Troy Parrott (nine) give AZ a cutting edge, while Koen Kostons' eight goals and four assists plus Kaj de Rooij's five goals offer Zwolle's main threat.

AZ are fifth on 28 points and a win would take them to 31, strengthening their qualification play-off push. Zwolle sit 13th on 20 points and victory would move them to 23, pushing them further clear of the relegation places.