De Graafschap vs Almere City FC | Eredivisie Preview

De Graafschap will be desperate to turn their fortunes around when they welcome Almere City FC to De Vijverberg on Friday evening, but they face a daunting task against opponents riding the crest of a wave.

The contrast in form between these two sides could hardly be starker. Almere City arrive in Doetinchem having won all three of their recent matches, scoring an impressive nine goals while conceding just three. Their attacking prowess has been particularly evident in the closing stages of games, with nearly half of their goals coming in the final quarter hour. This late surge capability has become a trademark of their recent performances and suggests a team with both fitness and mental strength.

De Graafschap, on the other hand, are enduring a nightmare start to their campaign. Their solitary fixture so far ended in a comprehensive 3-1 defeat away from home, and the statistics make for grim reading. They shipped three goals while managing just one in response, and their defensive frailties were exposed throughout the match with goals conceded in the first half, second half, and late stages.

The head to head record between these clubs tells a fascinating story of recent dominance by Almere City. Just three days ago, the visitors secured a 3-1 victory over De Graafschap at their own ground, demonstrating their ability to perform when it matters most. Looking at their broader history, Almere City have won three of their last five encounters, with the hosts managing just one victory back in September 2025 when they edged a thrilling 3-2 contest at this very venue.

That September result offers some hope for De Graafschap supporters, as it proved they can match their opponents when everything clicks into place. However, the recent trajectory suggests Almere City have found solutions to the problems that cost them that day.

From a tactical perspective, Almere City have shown flexibility in their recent outings, alternating between 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 formations depending on the opposition. This adaptability has served them well, allowing them to maintain their perfect record while averaging three goals per game. Their ability to score consistently both at home and away speaks to a well-drilled attacking system that can function regardless of the venue.

The fixture load hasn't been particularly demanding for either side so far this season, with Almere City having played three matches to De Graafschap's one. However, this could actually work in the visitors' favor as they appear to have found their rhythm and built momentum, while the hosts are still searching for their first positive result.

De Graafschap will need to address their defensive vulnerabilities quickly if they hope to compete. Conceding three goals in their opening fixture suggests systemic issues that won't be easily resolved, particularly against opponents who have been clinical in front of goal.

The absence of any reported injuries for either side means both managers should have full squads to choose from, eliminating excuses and placing the focus squarely on tactical preparation and execution.

Given Almere City's superior form, recent dominance in this fixture, and De Graafschap's early season struggles, the visitors should have enough quality to secure another victory. Expect Almere City to win 2-1, potentially scoring late to break De Graafschap's resistance.