Alkmaar’s night‑shift strikes while Be’er stays in the dark

The Dutch side turned the Europa League fixture into a masterclass in Dutch efficiency, slipping past Hapoel Be’er 2‑1 and reminding the group that they’re not there for the souvenir photos.

From the first whistle AZ imposed their rhythm, weaving quick passes that left the Israeli defence looking for a GPS signal. The opening goal arrived before the half‑hour mark, a low‑driven finish from the wing that curled past the keeper with the kind of non‑chalance you expect from a team that knows the group table will be decided in the final weeks. Hapoel tried to answer, but their attempts were as disjointed as a budget karaoke night.

The second half saw AZ double‑down. A well‑timed overlap forced a defensive scramble, and the ball fell to the striker who, with a composure that would make a veteran striker weep, tucked the ball home. Hapoel managed a consolation, a header from a set‑piece that was more about pride than points. The final whistle confirmed a three‑point haul for Alkmaar and left Be’er with a bitter after‑taste.

What does this mean for the table? AZ’s three points push them a notch higher, edging closer to the automatic qualification spots and keeping the pressure on the group’s front‑runners. Hapoel, meanwhile, remain in the lower half, needing a win in their next outing just to keep the dream alive. The gap is now tangible, and the Dutch side’s momentum could prove decisive as the race tightens.

Standout performers were easy to spot. AZ’s midfield engine, who dictated tempo and supplied both goals, earned an 8.5 for his vision and work‑rate. The striker, clinical and cool, notched a 8.0, while the goalkeeper, called into action by a stray Hapoel shot, secured a solid 7.5. For the visitors, the lone bright spot was the centre‑back who repelled a late surge, meriting a 7.0; the rest of the backline hovered around a modest 6.5.

Overall, the match was a textbook example of why AZ should be feared in this group. Hapoel Be’er will have to regroup, tighten up at the back, and find a way to convert the few chances they create if they hope to stay afloat.

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Player Ratings

• AZ Alkmaar

- Midfielder (8.5)

- Striker (8.0)

- Goalkeeper (7.5)

• Hapoel Be’er

- Centre‑back (7.0)

- Goalkeeper (6.5)