AZ Alkmaar vs Sparta Prague - Prediction, Team News, Lineups AZ Alkmaar and Sparta Prague will face off in the first leg of their Europa Conference League last-16 tie at the AFAS Stadion on Thursday. The Dutch side, which reached the knockout stages after overcoming Armenian side Noah in a play-off, will aim to build on their recent continental success. AZ, currently sixth in the Eredivisie with eight league matches remaining, have struggled in the league but remain competitive in domestic cups, advancing to the KNVB Beker final after defeating Telstar. However, their recent form across all competitions has been mixed, with just one win in their last three matches. AZ’s hopes of securing an early advantage in the tie are bolstered by their strong home record, having kept clean sheets in all four of their Conference League matches at the AFAS Stadion this season. Their last continental game on home soil saw them overcome Noah 4-0 after a 1-0 first-leg deficit, a result that highlights their ability to perform under pressure. However, the team faces challenges, including the absence of Jordy Clasie due to an ankle injury and Mateo Chavez, sidelined with a shoulder issue. Right-back Elijah Dijkstra will continue to fill the void, while Sven Mijnans, who scored twice against Noah, remains a key threat. Sparta Prague, meanwhile, entered the tie as one of the standout performers in the Europa Conference League group stage, finishing fourth with 13 points after a remarkable turnaround. The Czech side, managed by Brian Priske, had only four points from their opening three matches but secured maximum points in their final three fixtures. Despite this, they trail leaders Slavia Prague by 10 points in the domestic league following a 3-1 derby defeat.#az_alkmaar #sparta_prague #europa_conference_league #afas_stadion #knvb_beker
