Prediction Sunderland - AZ Alkmaar today 02:00 17/09/2026.

Sunderland has the capability to win important matches, demonstrated by three consecutive recent victories (defeating Fulham, Rennes, and RC Lens), including two clean sheets, highlighting their stability in crucial situations.

The lineup features stable pillars such as Granit Xhaka and Noah Sadiki, ensuring ball control and rhythm distribution, while goalkeeper Robin Roefs participates 100% in the match, providing security to the goal.

Sunderland's overall performance in their last 10 matches has been relatively balanced, with 4 clean sheets and 11 goals scored, indicating that their attack and defense capabilities are at an average level.

The coach is experimenting with multiple tactical formations (4-2-3-1 and 5-3-2), demonstrating flexibility in adjusting the playing style, although effective cohesion between the lines has not yet been created.

Unstable performance, with two consecutive losses (losing 1-2 to Ipswich, 2-3 to Real Murcia U19) and one draw (1-1 vs Brentford), indicating a lack of focus and the ability to maintain good results.

Inconsistent defensive ability leading to unnecessary goals (e.g., conceding two goals in the second half against Ipswich or conceding in the first half against Leeds Utd)

Disciplinary issues in the matches, manifested through 13 yellow cards (an average of 1.3 per game) and 1 red card (the 0-2 loss to Arsenal), have affected Sunderland's performance and morale.

The absence of two key players, Habib Diarra (midfielder) and Romaine Mundle (striker), has caused the team's formation to lack diversity and flexibility, especially when facing strong teams.

Alkmaar is experiencing a period of resurgence with a record of 8 wins and 2 draws in their last 10 matches, demonstrating exceptional stability and combat ability at every level.

Alkmaar scores an average of 2.9 goals per game and has kept a clean sheet in 4 games, demonstrating an impressive goal-scoring record and a disciplined defense.

Goalkeeper Jari De Busser and forward Mexx Meerdink are playing a key role, with stability and significant contributions in recent matches

Alkmaar is controlling the game well, with an average of 8.3 corners per game, demonstrating their ability to dominate possession and create opportunities from set pieces.

The 4-2-3-1 tactical formation is widely used, creating stability in play, but shows no signs of major changes or superior flexibility.

Despite being ranked 3rd in the UEFA Europa League 2026-2027 standings, Alkmaar has not had any matches recorded yet, so it is not yet possible to evaluate their performance in the tournament clearly.

The absence of Stije Resink (29 matches) severely impacts the defense, especially when using the 3-4-3 formation, forcing the coach to adjust with subpar options.

Players Kees Smit and Denso Kasius are also absent, creating a gap in the central and defensive positions, although the substitutes are not strong enough to compensate.

Alkmaar heavily relies on Mexx Meerdink in attack, as he is the only player to start in all 10 games, posing a potential risk if he gets injured or fails to maintain his form.