NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior
Match postponed
Status: PSTKick-off has been postponed. A new date will be announced by the league — we’ll refresh this page automatically when it lands.
The new season kicks off with NEC Nijmegen facing Excelsior in what promises to be an intriguing encounter. Both teams have reshaped their squads over the summer, setting the stage for a competitive match as they look to start their campaigns on a positive note.
The context
NEC Nijmegen have bolstered their ranks with the arrivals of K. Sierhuis and Jamiro Monteiro on free transfers, alongside Danilo joining on loan. However, they have parted ways with B. Önal through a transfer. Excelsior, on the other hand, have seen the departures of D. Sanches Fernandes and I. Bronkhorst, which may impact their depth. These changes will influence how both sides approach this opening fixture.
Match factors
League Standings
NEC Nijmegen ranks 3rd with 59 points; Excelsior ranks 13th with 38 points.
Goal Difference
NEC Nijmegen has a +24 goal difference; Excelsior has -13.
Points Per Game
NEC Nijmegen averages 1.74 PPG; Excelsior averages 1.12 PPG.
Analysis
Despite NEC Nijmegen's stronger league standing last season and a superior goal difference, Excelsior are tipped to start the season with a win. The prediction leans on the away side taking an early lead by halftime and maintaining their advantage to secure a 2-1 victory. NEC's points-per-game advantage last season suggests they will be competitive, but Excelsior's resilience and tactical setup could see them edge this one.
Key facts
- 1.NEC Nijmegen finished 3rd last season with 59 points.
- 2.Excelsior ended 13th with 38 points last season.
- 3.NEC Nijmegen had a +24 goal difference compared to Excelsior's -13.
- 4.NEC Nijmegen averaged 1.74 points per game last season.
- 5.Excelsior averaged 1.12 points per game last season.
- 6.NEC Nijmegen signed K. Sierhuis and Jamiro Monteiro on free transfers.
- 7.Danilo joined NEC Nijmegen on loan for the new season.
- 8.Excelsior lost D. Sanches Fernandes and I. Bronkhorst over the summer.
Prediction
The forecast sees Excelsior leading 1-0 at halftime and ultimately winning 2-1. This suggests a tightly contested match where Excelsior manage to break through early and hold off NEC Nijmegen's attempts to equalise and overturn the deficit.
The verdict
As the season opener, this match sets the tone for both teams. Excelsior will be looking to build confidence with a strong start, while NEC Nijmegen will aim to bounce back quickly. Expect a spirited contest with Excelsior narrowly coming out on top.
Team Comparison
Season shape — attack, defence, form, clean sheets & win rate
Home vs Away comparison
Goal difference in each of the last few fixtures — above the line is a net win, below is a net loss
Season comparison
Goals scored & conceded, goal difference and clean sheets across the season
Halftime Performance
What each side does once the whistle goes for half time
Streaks
Recent-form runs — each side’s most-recent game meets in the middle
Head to Head
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | +7 | 9 | |
| 9 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | -1 | 4 | |
| 10 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | +3 | 3 | |
| 11 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | +2 | 3 | |
| 12 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | +1 | 3 |

