In recent weeks, PEC Zwolle’s story has been quite repetitive – frequent scoring but conceding hits, resulting in three consecutive 2-2 draws. Considering the formidable opponents faced in these matches (Ajax, Heerenveen, and AZ), it’s indeed a commendable achievement. However, with just one win in their last seven matches (D3, L3), the Blauwvingers are eager for a victory.
Facing the league’s lowest-placed team this Friday seems like an ideal opportunity for three points. Yet, history suggests challenges against Vitesse: PEC lost seven of the last ten meetings (W2, D1). The absence of key midfielders Ryan Thomas and Zico Buurmeester adds to the challenge.
For Vitesse Arnhem, the 18th round of the Eredivisie brought another forgettable moment with a 2-1 loss to national champions Feyenoord. Their struggles continue, with only two competitive wins since the second round (D3, L12). They remain at the bottom of the table, notably the lowest-scoring team in the competition with at least four goals fewer than any other side (13).
Away from home, Vitesse has been lackluster, conceding 22 goals in their last five competitive away games and scoring only twice in response. In the Eredivisie alone, they managed just three goals across their last eight away trips.
Players to watch in this encounter are Lennart Thy, who scored four of PEC Zwolle’s last six goals, and Vitessenaar Amine Boutrah, responsible for three of Vitesse’s last four goals.
A noteworthy statistic is that Vitesse scored in all but one of their last 26 matches against PEC Zwolle.
