UEFA Europa League Preview: Ararat-Armenia Seek Historic First Points as AZ Alkmaar Aim to Snap Away Slump
Armenian champions Ararat-Armenia host Dutch powerhouse AZ Alkmaar in matchday three of the UEFA Europa League league phase. The hosts are eager to rebound from consecutive continental defeats and secure their first-ever league phase points, while AZ Alkmaar look to consolidate their position and overcome a troublesome winless streak in European away fixtures.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
In the reformed UEFA Europa League league phase, tournament debutants Ararat-Armenia find themselves in 34th place after consecutive defeats to Sparta Prague and Jagiellonia Białystok, having conceded seven goals. Manuel Tulipa's side need a positive result in Yerevan to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout play-offs alive. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar sit 20th with three points following an opening loss to Sunderland and a 2-1 victory over Hapoel Be'er Sheva. While Leeroy Echteld's side are heavy favourites to cement a top-24 berth, they face the challenge of snapping a dismal 10-match winless streak in Europa League away matches (D2, L8).
Recent Form
Ararat-Armenia have maintained strong domestic form, winning three of their last five matches across all competitions, including a 1-0 domestic victory over BKMA Yerevan that extended their scoring streak to 12 consecutive matches. AZ Alkmaar, by contrast, have been inconsistent, posting two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five fixtures. Following a 2-2 Eredivisie draw against Cambuur and a domestic loss to Feyenoord, the Dutch side have conceded in seven of their last eight outings, demonstrating defensive vulnerabilities on the road.
Key Players & Injury News
Ararat-Armenia will look to veteran striker Sandro Lima and attacking midfielder Zidane Banjaqui, who was on the scoresheet against Jagiellonia, to lead their attack in front of a passionate home crowd, with head coach Tulipa enjoying a near-fully fit squad. For AZ Alkmaar, midfielder Peer Koopmeiners and emerging forward Mexx Meerdink—both decisive in the matchday two triumph over Hapoel Be'er Sheva—will be central to their game plan alongside playmaker Kees Smit. However, manager Leeroy Echteld must address recent defensive lapses and manage minor squad fatigue to secure a vital road victory.