Groningen vs Excelsior in the Eredivisie
The Dutch top-flight rolls into the Euroborg as Groningen host Excelsior in a mid-season Eredivisie clash that could reshape the middle of the table. Both sides view the encounter as a springboard toward stronger second-half momentum and valuable league points.
For the home side, victory would underline their ambition to secure a spot in the league’s upper reaches. The visitors, meanwhile, see this trip as an opportunity to pull off an eye-catching result against a traditionally solid opponent and distance themselves from any potential relegation worries.
Founded in 1971, Groningen have become a respected name in Dutch soccer thanks to a passionate northern fanbase, a KNVB Cup triumph in 2015, and an academy that launched stars like Arjen Robben and Virgil van Dijk. The club has never lifted the Eredivisie trophy, but it consistently punches above its weight by developing talent and playing attractive soccer.
Groningen — Club Profile
Groningen are renowned for wide, high-tempo attacks rooted in quick transitions from defense to midfield. Wingers hug the touchlines, stretching back lines and freeing creative midfielders to find pockets between the lines.
The Euroborg crowd expects intense pressing, especially in the opening 15 minutes, and the team often obliges. Set pieces are another strength, with towering center-backs providing a threat on corners and free kicks.
Excelsior — Club Profile
Excelsior, established in 1902 in Rotterdam’s Kralingen district, embrace an underdog ethos. The club’s modest budget is offset by a reputation for grooming prospects who later shine across the Netherlands.
On the pitch, Excelsior favor compact defensive blocks and explosive counter-attacks down the flanks. Full-backs push high when possible, while midfielders look to spring quick through-balls once possession is won.
Lineups: Groningen vs Excelsior
The confirmed lineup for Groningen: (4-2-3-1) Etienne Vaessen, Marco Rente, Thijmen Blokzijl, Dies Janse, Marvin Peersman, Tygo Land, Tika de Jonge, Younes Taha, David van der Werff, Jorg Schreuders, Thom van Bergen — Coach: Dick Lukkien.
For Excelsior, the manager confirmed: (4-3-3) Stijn van Gassel, Rick Meissen, Casper Widell, Lewis Schouten, Arthur Zagre, Noah Naujoks, Lennard Hartjes, Irakli Yegoian, Derensili Sanches Fernandes, Gyan de Regt, Emil Hansson — Coach: Ruben den Uil.
Groningen vs Excelsior: Head-to-Head & Match Prediction
The last five meetings have favored Groningen: 2-0 away wins on 05 Dec 2025 and 16 Jan 2024, a 3-0 home success on 25 Feb 2023, with Excelsior grabbing a lone 1-0 win on 08 Jan 2023. A 4-2 Groningen victory back on 15 Dec 2021 rounds out the record.
Attack metrics give Excelsior a 56 % edge, yet defensive strength heavily tilts toward Groningen at 64 %. Combining sturdier defending with home advantage, the prediction leans toward a narrow Groningen win, though Excelsior’s sharper attack suggests the visitors won’t make it easy.
Frequently Asked Questions: Groningen vs Excelsior
Where can I watch Groningen vs Excelsior live?
The match streams exclusively on ESPN+, the network’s subscription-based digital platform available via web browser, mobile app, smart TV, and streaming devices.
What time does Groningen vs Excelsior start?
Kickoff is at 12:45 PM ET on Saturday, 05/02/2026.
Which channel is showing Groningen vs Excelsior?
The game will be available on ESPN+ for viewers in the United States.
Can I watch Groningen vs Excelsior for free?
No. ESPN+ requires a paid subscription, and the platform is not offering a free-to-air option for this fixture.
Where will Groningen vs Excelsior be played?
The match will be played at Euroborg, Groningen.
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