Match: Manchester United vs AZ Alkmaar
League: Europa League
Date: Thursday, 12 December 2019
Kick-off at 20:00 UK / 21:00 CET
Venue: Old Trafford (Manchester)
Manchester United vs AZ Alkmaar: A draw would only send Manchester United to the next round, as the best in Group L. However, with AZ Alkmaar known for causing problems even on the road, count on United to avoid taking risks and settle for anything less. that victory
Manchester United stumbled for the first time in its European campaign after the FC Astana’s bottom club surprised them from behind to claim a 2-1 victory. However, the defeat left the hosts at the top of Group L, but reduced their lead to just one sad point from now on.
Either way, the Red Devils are still strongly inclined to outperform their group and for good reason. The hosts are on a winning streak of two games at this time in their national campaign and will host the Dutch team after a 2-1 victory over fierce rival Manchester City.
Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar has also performed well in their respective matches and has recorded consecutive victories in their last two games. It should also be mentioned that visitors are undefeated in their last three games in Europe. The most recent was a 2-2 draw against Partizan Belgrade at home.
In addition, the opposing team so far has not been defeated in any of its trips through Europe. However, that alone does not guarantee AZ Alkmaar a victory in this. Manchester United is participating in what could be said to be one of the toughest leagues in Europe. They are also much more competitive and experienced on the world stage.
Given the obvious difference in height of the teams involved and the local advantage for United, AZ Alkmaar is unlikely to be the one to succeed this week.
In addition, the visiting contingent seemed solid in the back. The fact that they have kept seven blank sheets in their last ten games in various competitions is also a testament to the above.
In addition, the guests have conceded so far only twice during their outings in group L. To top it off, their first h2h match ended in a goalless draw.
Therefore, although the Red Devils are known to accumulate goals in Old Trafford, they rule out any possibility of a high-scoring clash.