Analysis The numbers behind the result
AZ's dominance yields only a draw as Willem II snatch late point
AZ Alkmaar will rue their inability to convert dominance into three points, with the 1-1 scoreline flattering Willem II on balance of play. The hosts' 67% possession translated into overwhelming shot volume (22 total, 16 inside box vs Willem II's 8 and 6 respectively) and superior chance creation (11 corners to 2). Jordy Clasie's 32nd-minute strike, assisted by Mexx Meerdink, rewarded their control, but just five shots on target from 22 attempts (23% accuracy) proved costly.
Willem II's resilience was highlighted by their clinical edge, scoring from one of just two shots on target through Devin Haen's 81st-minute equaliser, assisted by Uriel van Aalst. AZ's wastefulness is best encapsulated by their 15 shots off target – more than Willem II's total attempts. The visitors' compact 4-2-3-1 frustrated AZ, who despite 608 accurate passes (80% more than Willem II's 259), lacked precision in the final third.
The decisive stat: Willem II converted 50% of their shots on target into goals, while AZ managed just 20% – a profligacy that ultimately cost them victory.