Vaduz vs AZ Alkmaar

Vaduz’s European Journey and Recent Form

As the sole representative from Liechtenstein in European competitions, Vaduz consistently competes in the Swiss Challenge League. Under the guidance of former player Marc Schneider, the team experienced a week of contrasting fortunes. They faced a decisive 0-3 defeat against AZ in Alkmaar, succumbing to the opponent’s pressure in the final quarter-hour. However, the Red-Whites quickly rebounded, securing a dominant 3-0 home victory against Nyon in the league, effectively making amends for their European setback in the Netherlands.

Domestic Performance and Squad Update

Schneider’s squad has enjoyed a strong start in their domestic league campaign, accumulating seven points from three matches. Their focus now shifts to the return leg of the Conference League, where they have nothing to lose against AZ. Gasser and Sawadogo are currently unavailable for selection, impacting the home side’s options for this crucial encounter.

AZ Alkmaar’s Attacking Prowess in Europe

It’s evident that Maarten Martens’ AZ Alkmaar side is just beginning to hit its stride this season, showcasing a rather expansive and attacking style of play. In the previous Conference League qualifying round, the Dutch team thoroughly dominated Finnish side Ilves (winning 3-4 away and 5-0 at home). Against Vaduz, Troy Parrott and his teammates immediately seized control, taking the bull by the horns. The Belgian coach’s team rarely scores fewer than three goals per game in European competitions, a trend likely to continue given the anticipated open nature of this return fixture.

Eredivisie Start and Injury Report

Notably, prior to this European encounter, the Red-Whites kicked off their Eredivisie season impressively by crushing Groningen 4-1 at home. Troy Parrott once again found the net twice, with the Irishman enjoying a stellar start to the campaign. For the upcoming second leg, the visitors will be without young defender Dekker due to injury, as well as Japanese defender Seiya Maikuma.