Heracles just keep on winning… Helmond Sport are still winning… FC Eindhoven have started winning… and De Graafschap have finally won. Week Six Report of the Eerste Divisie is here writes Will Burns.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 11TH SEPTEMBER 2026

FC EINDHOVEN 2-1 FC DORDRECHT

FC Eindhoven claimed their first home win of the season with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over FC Dordrecht. The visitors took the lead through Martin Vetkal, but the hosts were back on level terms before half-time when Hugo Deenen’s cross was turned into his own net by a Dordrecht centre-back Jaden Pinas.

The home side struggled to create clear chances despite enjoying plenty of possession. However, they found the breakthrough just after the hour mark when right-back Owen Renfrum powered home a header from Guus Beaumont’s free-kick to put Eindhoven ahead.

Dordrecht’s hopes of a comeback were reduced when Björn Hardley was sent off after just being on the pitch for six minutes. However, the visitors still came close to equalising and Eindhoven’s stopper Jort Borgmans preserved all three points with a superb last-minute save. This ensured Eindhoven celebrated their second win of the season and their first at the Jan Louwers Stadion.

FC EMMEN 1-2 DE GRAAFSCHAP

De Graafschap recorded their first victory of the season on Friday night with a 2-1 win away at FC Emmen. The visitors made a perfect start when Julian Kania finished off a strong run from Toivo Mero after just seven minutes. Emmen responded before the break through former De Graafschap forward Jack Cooper-Love, leaving the score level at 1-1 at half-time.

The second half saw De Graafschap battle hard to stay in the contest. Goalkeeper Ties Wieggers played a key role with several important saves, while the crossbar also came to the visitors’ rescue on two occasions.

The winning goal arrived through Donny Warmerdam, who found himself unmarked in front of goal and calmly beat goalkeeper Sam Karssies. His finish secured De Graafschap’s first three points of the campaign and a valuable away victory in Emmen.

HELMOND SPORT 3-1 JONG PSV

Helmond Sport continued their strong form with a 3-1 home victory over Jong PSV, securing a second consecutive win. Livio Cicero opened the scoring after ten minutes, but the visitors responded midway through the first half through Kyano Penso to leave the game level at 1-1 at the break.

The hosts looked the more dangerous side after half-time and gradually increased the pressure. Despite a few chances at both ends, the match remained finely balanced heading into the closing stages.

Helmond Sport then struck twice in quick succession to seal the points. Joep van der Sluijs restored the lead with a composed finish in the 76th minute, before Tarik Essakkati added a third moments later after being set up by Cicero. The 3-1 victory ensured Helmond Sport celebrated back-to-back league wins.

HERACLES ALMELO 3-2 JONG AZ

It sure feels like Groundhog Day as Heracles maintained their perfect start to the season, with a hard-earned 3-2 victory over Jong AZ. The result now extended their winning streak to six matches. Sem Scheperman gave the hosts an early lead, but the visitors responded strongly and turned the game around before half-time through goals from Hessel de Wit and Tycho de Wit.

Backed by a lively home crowd, Heracles raised the intensity after the break and quickly found an equaliser. Jean-Paul N’Djoli brilliantly flicked home Max Hauswirth’s cross, before Scheperman struck again shortly afterwards. Set up by substitute Thomas Bruns, the midfielder netted his second goal of the evening to restore Heracles’ advantage.

The hosts managed the closing stages well and never looked seriously troubled after making defensive adjustments. Head coach Vincent Heilmann praised his side’s response after falling behind for the first time this season, highlighting their improved pressing and determination in the second half. The victory not only preserved Heracles’ 100 per cent record but also strengthened their position as several promotion rivals dropped points.

JONG AJAX 0-2 RKC WAALWIJK

RKC Waalwijk claimed an impressive 2-0 away win over Jong Ajax. The visitors started brightly and created several chances in the first half, but were unable to find a way past goalkeeper Joeri Heerkens. Jong Ajax also threatened, but RKC keeper Niek Schiks produced a number of important saves to keep the score level at the break.

The second half remained evenly contested, with opportunities at both ends. Jong Ajax came closest when Jano Monserrate struck the post, while Schiks continued to impress with several key interventions to keep RKC in the game. The breakthrough finally arrived in the closing stages when Virgil Misidjan’s free-kick took a deflection and found the net to make it 1-0. Deep into stoppage time, Yoram van der Veen sealed the victory with a composed finish, securing a well-earned 2-0 win for RKC Waalwijk in Amsterdam.

MVV MAASTRICHT 0-4 ALMERE CITY

MVV’s unbeaten start was always going to come to an end at some point, and the 4-0 defeat to Almere City was surely a tough result to take. Even more so as the score line hardly reflected the balance of play, with MVV matching their opponents for long periods and arguably looking the better footballing side for much of the contest.

After surviving several early scares, MVV took control and dominated possession, but the hosts combined well, defended aggressively and regularly put Almere under pressure, but once again struggled to turn promising attacks into clear-cut chances. Olivier Dumont and the tireless Lennerd Daneels came closest, but neither could find the breakthrough.

Almere ultimately showed the clinical edge expected of a promotion challenger. Led by striker Ferdy Druijf, the visitors punished defensive lapses and exploited the space left behind as MVV pushed forward. Three quick goals in the closing stages turned a competitive match into a 4-0 defeat. Despite suffering their first loss of the season, MVV can take plenty of encouragement from both their performance and fighting spirit as attention now turns to the trip to RKC.

NAC BREDA 2-3 JONG FC UTRECHT

A shock in Breda, as NAC dropped points to Jong Utrecht. The Breda side made a poor start and fell behind midway through the first half when Noa Dundas scored for Jong FC Utrecht. Paul Gladon, introduced before the half-hour mark, quickly changed the game. The striker headed in Boyd Lucassen’s cross to level the score before coolly finishing a Soumano assist to give NAC a 2-1 lead before half-time.

The hosts’ advantage disappeared immediately after the break as Dundas headed home his second goal of the evening. Jan Van den Bergh then struck the crossbar from a corner before Emmanuel Owen put Jong FC Utrecht ahead at 3-2. NAC were unable to find a response and slipped to a disappointing home defeat.

VVV VENLO 3-1 TOP OSS

VVV-Venlo continued their strong home form with a 3-1 victory over TOP Oss on Friday evening. The hosts took control in the first half, going 2-0 ahead through an own goal from Delano Vianello and a debut goal for striker Matheos Tsigkas. TOP Oss reduced the deficit before the break through Franslyn Nsingi to make it 2-1 at half-time.

After the restart, VVV remained on top and created the better chances, while goalkeeper Youri Schoonderwaldt was called into action when needed to preserve the lead. The home side continued to push for a third goal and kept TOP Oss under pressure throughout much of the second half.

The decisive moment arrived eleven minutes from time when Mohammed Odriss finished a well-worked move with a composed lob over goalkeeper Mike Havekotte. It was the midfielder’s first goal in professional football and secured a 3-1 win for VVV, who celebrated a third consecutive home victory.

SATURDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER 2026

RODA JC 1-0 VITESSE ARNHEM

Vitesse saw their two-match winning run come to an end on Saturday afternoon as they suffered a 1-0 defeat away to Roda JC. The only goal of the game arrived in the opening stages at Parkstad Limburg Stadium, leaving the visitors with too much to do.

Roda started the brighter of the two sides, winning the physical battles and preventing Vitesse from settling into their usual rhythm. The Arnhem side struggled in possession and created little going forward, while the hosts made their early pressure count with the decisive goal after 12 minutes.

Despite attempting to gain more control after the break, Vitesse rarely threatened an equaliser. New signing Jeredy Hilterman made his debut from the bench, but Rüdiger Rehm’s side could not find a breakthrough and finished a match without scoring for the first time since facing Almere City. The defeat ended a run of back-to-back victories and halted their recent momentum.

SUNDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2026

FC VOLENDAM 2-0 FC DEN BOSCH

Volendam claimed a 2-0 home victory over Den Bosch in Sunday’s only game to collect another three points. The visitors hit the post early on, but Volendam gradually took control and created the better chances, with Reuven Niemeijer, Henk Veerman and Nick Doodeman all threatening before the break.

The deadlock was finally broken eight minutes into the second half when captain Henk Veerman produced a stunning overhead kick from a Kayden Wolff cross to give the hosts the lead. The spectacular strike sparked Volendam into life and rewarded their dominance.

Eleven minutes later, Reuven Niemeijer doubled the advantage by converting from close range following a scramble in the penalty area. Den Bosch were unable to respond, allowing Volendam to comfortably see out the match and secure a 2-0 win.

MONDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER 2026

WEEK NINE FIXTURES

JONG PSV 1-1 JONG AZ

Jong PSV had to settle for a point in a 1-1 draw with Jong AZ. The Eindhoven side took the lead in the first half through Austyn Jones and appeared on course for victory after a solid opening 45 minutes.

A notable moment came shortly after the hour mark when 17-year-old striker Mikkel Bro Hansen made his debut. The recent signing from Bodø/Glimt was handed his first minutes for the club, but Jong PSV struggled to maintain their level after the break. Jong AZ grew into the match and were rewarded six minutes from time when Jerroldino Bergraaf scored the equaliser to earn the visitors a share of the spoils.

JONG FC UTRECHT 6-1 JONG AJAX

Jong Ajax suffered a heavy 6-1 defeat away as Jong FC Utrecht picked up their second win of the weekend on Monday evening. The hosts took control before the break through goals from Wessel Kooy, Massien Ghaddari and Emmanuel Chigozie Owen, leaving the Amsterdam side facing a 3-0 deficit at the break.

Coach Carlos García made major changes after the interval, introducing Geronimo Spina and Jano Monserrate, but Jong Utrecht continued to dominate. Bjorn Menzo and Owen extended the lead before substitute Diego Pugno grabbed a late consolation goal for Ajax. Ghaddari added his second of the night to complete the scoring, while goalkeeper Joeri Heerkens was sent off deep into stoppage time as a difficult evening ended in a comprehensive defeat.oven to focus on Friday’s home fixture against FC Dordrecht.

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com

It’s official. Hell has frozen over. The Eerste Divisie produced a 0-0 draw on Monday night. Just when you thought this division could not get any crazier eh?

It was actually yet another goal-laden weekend, we saw eight in Emmen, nine in Dordrecht, and six in Helmond and Waalwijk. Will Burns tells all below.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER 2026

ALMERE CITY 0-1 JONG AJAX

Jong Ajax claimed their first away win of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie season with a 0-1 victory at Almere City on Friday night. Jano Monserrate proved the match-winner, heading home fifteen minutes from time after meeting a cross from Pharell Nash at the far post.

Almere missed a first-half penalty when Ferdi Druijf fired over the bar after Sinclair de Falco was penalised for handball. After the break, Emre Ünüvar went close twice for Jong Ajax, while Emanuel Poku hit the side-netting for the hosts. Monserrate’s decisive header settled the contest, with Gerónimo Spina and Anass Moumane also making their competitive debuts for Jong Ajax.

FC EMMEN 5-3 FC VOLENDAM

FC Emmen bounced back from a 4-0 thumping from VVV Venlo last weekend with an eight goal thriller against FC Volendam. The first half offered few clear chances, with Sybrand Veldhuis breaking the deadlock after 35 minutes to send Emmen into the break with a 1-0 advantage. The game burst into life after half-time.

Daan Huisman levelled for Volendam in the 51st minute, but Emmen quickly regained control through a second goals from Veldhuis and Freddy Quispel added a third. Reuven Niemeijer pulled one back to make it 3-2, only for Quispel to add his second and restore Emmen’s two-goal cushion moments later. Henk Veerman gave Volendam hope with the visitors’ third goal, but a Michael Breij spot kick settled the contest ten minutes from time, sealing a dramatic 5-3 victory for Emmen.

HELMOND SPORT 4-2 VVV VENLO

VVV-Venlo’s three-match winning streak ended with a 4-2 defeat away to Helmond Sport, supported by 390 travelling fans. Despite trailing 2-0 at half-time following goals from Livio Cicero and Labinot Bajrami, and losing Alex Schalk to an early shoulder injury, VVV mounted a strong comeback after the break.

Eanna Clancy quickly pulled one back with a volley, and Lars de Blok levelled the score with a calm 69th-minute penalty. VVV pushed hard for a winner, with debutant Matheos Tsigkas and Amir Rais coming close.

However, Helmond Sport capitalized on the open space late in the game. Substitute Mauro Lenaerts scored in the 85th minute and added a second during injury time to seal the 4-2 victory.

HERACLES ALMELO 5-0 DE GRAAFSCHAP

Heracles Almelo continued their strong start to the season with a commanding 5-0 victory over De Graafschap. The hosts struck early through Frenchman Jean-Paul N’djoli after just two minutes and remained on top throughout the first half. Chafik Abbas doubled the lead shortly before the break.

The league leaders never looked troubled after half-time, with De Graafschap struggling to create any meaningful chances. Tristan van Gilst added a third goal in the 72nd minute after being set up by Thomas Bruns, putting the result beyond doubt. N’djoli then capped off an outstanding evening by scoring twice more to complete his hat-trick, his NINTH goal in five games, and seal a comprehensive 5-0 win.

The victory was Heracles’ fifth successive league triumph, underlining their impressive form at the top of the table.

VITESSE ARNHEM 2-1 TOP OSS

Vitesse edged past TOP Oss 2-1 in an entertaining contest at GelreDome, securing three valuable points to lift them into sixth position. Chances were scarce before the break, although Ricardo-Felipe Schwarz came close to breaking the deadlock when his effort from close range drifted narrowly wide.

The hosts raised the tempo after half-time and were rewarded when Naoufal Bannis fired home from a Nino Zonneveld delivery to make it 1-0. TOP Oss responded through Kyanno Silva, but Vitesse continued to push forward and regained the lead just over ten minutes from time. Omar Achouitar’s dangerous cross was turned into the net via a deflection, giving the home side a decisive 2-1 advantage. Vitesse comfortably saw out the closing stages to claim the win. Top OSS sit in 18th now with just three points from five games.

RKC WAALWIJK 4-2 NAC BREDA

RKC Waalwijk came out on top in an entertaining Brabant derby, defeating NAC Breda 4-2. The hosts opened the scoring through an own goal from Rio Hillen after a dangerous ball from Thijs van Leeuwen. NAC’s evening worsened before half-time when Leo Greiml was sent off after picking up a second yellow card on 37 minutes.

With the visitors reduced to ten men, RKC doubled their lead shortly after the restart through Van Leeuwen. Moroccan midfielder Mohamed Nassoh pulled a goal back for NAC in the 64th minute, but his fellow countryman on the opposite side, Faissal Al Mazyani, restored RKC’s two-goal advantage ten minutes later.

Nassoh struck again with ten minutes remaining to give NAC hope of a comeback, but the visitors could not find an equaliser. Deep into stoppage time, veteran defender Jordy de Wijs sealed the win and completed a 4-2 victory for RKC.

SATURDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER 2026

FC DORDRECHT 3-6 JONG AZ ALKMAAR

Just the nine goals as FC Dordrecht suffered a 6-3 home defeat against a strong Jong AZ side, featuring starting debuts for Ninho Felicia and Stan Henderikx. The first half saw five goals, with Jong AZ taking a 3-2 lead thanks to two goals from Bendeguz Kovacs, and an Andrea Natali header from a free kick, while Nicolás Rossi and Ayoub Ouarghi responded for Dordrecht before the referee blew for the break.

In the second half, Jong AZ extended their lead through substitute Yoel van den Ban before Lorenzo Riccio narrowed the gap to 4-3. However, Jong AZ pulled away again with two late goals from Jerroldino Bergraaf and Rio Robbemond to secure the 3-6 win, compounded by Ouarghi receiving a second yellow card in the 84th minute which capped off a poor day for the hosts.

SUNDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER 2026

MVV MAASTRICHT 1-1 RODA JC

A derby victory and a fifth consecutive win were within reach for MVV against Roda JC but a 92nd minute goal spoiled any cleebrations in Maastricht. Despite the late heartache in stoppage time, the packed stadium created an incredible atmosphere from the start, driven by a powerful rendition of the club anthem and a stunning display of red and white scarves.

MVV started the match full of confidence and took a well-deserved lead after fifteen minutes when Olivier Dumont brilliantly volleyed home following a free kick from Robert Klaasen. Although Roda JC pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half and eventually broke through with a header from Joey Sleegers in the dying moments, the MVV defence fought valiantly throughout.

MONDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER 2026

JONG PSV 3-1 FC DEN BOSCH

FC Den Bosch fell to a 3-1 away defeat to Jong PSV, despite fielding a refreshed starting line-up with Rafi Wolters, Jack De Vries, and Bohao Wang coming in. The visitors dominated the first half with a flurry of early chances, including dangerous strikes from Wolters and Ilias Boumassaoudi, alongside a golden 38th-minute counter-attack where Wolters unselfishly tried to set up Boumassaoudi only for a last-second intercept. Jong PSV held firm through goalkeeper Khadim Ngom, while Pepjin van de Merbel kept the hosts at bay on the other end to leave the match without a goal at the break.

The game turned completely early in the second half as Den Bosch collapsed during a disastrous four-minute spell. Deficit-causing defensive errors allowed Shuryjano Cornecion, Austyn Jones, and substitute Boet Mulders to score three quick-fire goals for Jong PSV.

Den Bosch coach Bart Schreuder threw on a triple substitution, and the visitors pulled one back when substitute Emian-Johar Semedo set up Devon De Corte to finish neatly from the edge of the box. The visitors pressed for a comeback but failed to create further clear-cut chances.

JONG FC UTRECHT 0-0 FC EINDHOVEN

Boring!

FC Eindhoven picked up a point on the road against Jong FC Utrecht. After a quiet opening 15 minutes, the Blue and Whites ramped up the intensity, testing goalkeeper Mees Eppink with long-range efforts from Kevin van Veen and Mika de Jonge. The home side eventually fought back into the game, forcing Eindhoven goalkeeper Jort Borgmans into key saves against Björn Menzo and Yousri Sbai to keep the scores level at the break.

The second half brought clearer opportunities for both teams, with Siegert Baartmans at the heart of Eindhoven’s attack. Baartmans rounded Eppink only to hit the side netting, before later firing straight at the keeper in a one-on-one situation. At the other end, Jong FC Utrecht threatened repeatedly, clipping the post with a corner-bound header and forcing a brilliant reflex save from Borgmans against Wessel Kooy.

Despite late pressure and the debut of new signing Rayan Buifrahi, neither side could break the deadlock, leaving Eindhoven to focus on Friday’s home fixture against FC Dordrecht.

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com

Henk Veerman rolled back the years and scored four goals, Heracles and MVV keep their 100% records and Vitesse and VVV showed their power in yet another wild weekend across the Dutch second tier, Will Burns is here with all the main talking points.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 28TH AUGUST 2026

TOP OSS 2-1 JONG FC UTRECHT

TOP Oss earned a deserved 2–1 win over Jong FC Utrecht after starting strongly, taking an early lead when Marcelencio Esajas headed in a fine cross from Mert Erkan. TOP Oss continued to dominate, hitting the woodwork through Erkan and creating several chances before halftime. After the break, Sjors Ultee made a triple substitution, and it paid off on 65 minutes, when Esajas dribbled past his man and set up Maurilio de Lannoy, who calmly slotted home to double the lead.

Jong FC Utrecht pushed late and finally pulled one back from a corner in the 88th minute, with 17-year-old substitute Jerayno Hunte getting his first senior goal, just moments after Mike Havekotte had made a brilliant save to deny the visitors. The closing minutes were tense, but TOP Oss held firm and secured a deserved victory, keeping all three points at the Frans Heesen Stadion.

RODA JC 2-2 NAC BREDA

NAC Breda clinched a draw at Roda JC after they fell behind just after the half‑hour mark when Marco Tol put the hosts ahead, but Moussa Soumano levelled things before the break after good work from Jannes van Hecke. Early in the second half, Anthony van den Hurk won and converted a penalty to restore Roda’s lead, yet Paul Gladon stepped up late on and forced home the equaliser, ensuring NAC left Kerkrade with a point.

RKC WAALWIJK 2-2 JONG PSV

RKC and Jong PSV played out a 2–2 draw with both sides dominating different phases of the match. The home side started brightly and raced into a two-goal lead thanks to well‑taken goals from Keyan Varela, who was a constant threat throughout the first half. RKC continued to create chances, but the PSV youth struck back against the run of play when Souleymane Sidibé made it 2–1.

RKC still looked the stronger side before the break, yet could not extend their lead. Right after half time, Jong PSV’s substitutions paid off immediately, with Austyn Jones finishing a swift attack to level the score at 2–2. From there, the match opened up, with both teams pushing for a winner and in stoppage time, each side had one last chance, but neither could convert, leaving the Mandemakers Stadion with a fair share of the points.

JONG AZ 1-2 MVV MAASTRICHT

MVV won its fourth straight match in Alkmaar, marking the best start to a season in their history. For supporters who endured last season’s frustration, the transformation feels surreal. MVV aren’t blowing teams away, but they look organised, resilient, and full of players capable of deciding matches.

On Friday night, the start was shaky when Hugo Wentges had to tip a shot out of the top corner, but once MVV settled, they took control. Milan Hofland’s perfect cross allowed Olivier Dumont to head in the opener, and the defensive trio of Finn Dicke, Sven Bouland and Sil van der Wegen kept AZ’s youngsters quiet.

MVV continued to press rather than sit back, suffocating Jong AZ’s build‑up play after the half time break. Their reward came when Dumont found Noa El Hamdaoui, who scored his first professional goal with a composed finish. A late lapse made it 2-1 and caused some nervous moments, but debutants Naïm Matoug and Onesime Zimuangana helped see out the win.

JONG AJAX 3-2 HELMOND SPORT

Jong Ajax earned their first points of the season. Pharell Nash opened the scoring with a stunning long‑range strike set up by Diego Pugno, who also assisted Emre Ünüvar’s fine finish to make it 2-0. Before the break, Brian Koglin pulled one back for the hosts, and after half time Sem Dekkers equalised for Helmond. Pugno then capped his outstanding performance by scoring the decisive goal, sealing Jong Ajax’s first victory and first points of the campaign.

FC VOLENDAM 6-1 FC DORDRECHT

Volendam powered past Dordrecht in style, led by an unstoppable Henk Veerman. The big veteran striker struck twice inside the opening fifteen minutes, setting the tone for a dominant display. Martin Vetkal briefly pulled one back, but Reuven Niemeijer restored Volendam’s cushion before half‑time. After the break, Veerman completed his hat‑trick with a brilliant backheel, and although Precious Ugwu missed a penalty, the goals just kept coming.

Fifteen minutes from time, Veerman added his fourth, assisted by Nick Doodeman, before Doodeman himself capped the rout with Volendam’s sixth. It was a ruthless performance from Het Andere Oranje.

FC DEN BOSCH 1-4 VITESSE ARNHEM

Vitesse left ’s‑Hertogenbosch with a heavy 4–1 win, taking full control after a dramatic first half. Connor van den Berg set the tone early by saving a Kevin Monzialo penalty he had conceded moments before, and Vitesse immediately capitalised. Naoufal Bannis broke the deadlock with a composed finish, then Filipe de Carvalho Ferreira doubled the lead on the counter. Within minutes, Bannis struck again from close range, giving the Arnhem side a commanding three-goal advantage before the interval.

Den Bosch tried to respond after the break and forced Van den Berg into another sharp save from a free kick, but Vitesse remained in control and continued to find space behind the home defence. Their pressure paid off in the 72nd minute when a cross from Solomon Bonnah deflected awkwardly off a defender, wrong‑footing goalkeeper Pepijn van de Merbel for 0–4.

The hosts pulled one back late on through Lorenzo Hoffman, but Vitesse never looked in danger of letting their lead slip. The visitors saw out the final minutes comfortably, securing their second win of the season with a confident and clinical performance.

SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST 2026

DE GRAAFSCHAP 1-4 ALMERE CITY

In Saturday’s oinly game, De Graafschap fell 4–1 to Almere City, despite controlling long stretches of the match. After an early save from Ties Wieggers and a strong spell of pressure that produced several chances for Julian Kania, the hosts looked in control. But Almere struck first through Ferdy Druijf, before Kania deservedly levelled just before half‑time with a low free‑kick. De Graafschap even came close to a 2–1 lead in added time, yet went into the break tied.

After the interval, De Graafschap continued to push forward and created more opportunities through Nart Ahmeti‑Grainca, Donny Warmerdam and Gabriele Finocchiaro. Wieggers also kept his side in the game with strong saves on Emmanuel Poku and Ferdy Druijf. The match swung back and forth, and although De Graafschap had more of the ball and applied sustained pressure, Almere remained dangerous on the break. Gijs Bolk came closest for the hosts, firing into the side netting from close range.

Almere’s efficiency proved decisive. Druijf made it 2–1 in the 71st minute, and in the closing stages Enzo Cornelisse and Olivier de Nijs added two more to seal the win. De Graafschap’s possession and pressure weren’t enough to overcome Almere’s clinical finishing.

SUNDAY 30TH AUGUST 2026

FC EINDHOVEN 1-3 HERACLES ALMELO

Table toppers Heracles extended their unbeaten run with a commanding 3–1 win away in Eindhoven, showing once again why they look like one of the division’s most complete and confident sides. Eindhoven tried to unsettle them early, but once Jean‑Paul N’Djoli threatened and Chafik Abbas began finding space, the visitors took control. Their pressure paid off just before half‑time when Djevencio van der Kust finished off a slick Heracles move, although aided by a deflection, to give the Almelo side a deserved 1–0 lead.

Eindhoven briefly reignited the match after the break with a brilliant header from Siegert Baartmans, but Heracles responded ruthlessly. Just three minutes later, Damon Mirani rose highest at a corner to restore the lead, and the momentum swung fully back to the visitors. Heracles then showed their killer instinct: Tristan van Gilst won a penalty after a defensive mistake, stayed ice‑cold from the spot, and made it 3-1.

Even as Eindhoven pushed desperately in the final stages, Heracles remained composed, organised and dangerous on the counter. The hosts created a few late chances, but the Almelo defence held firm, closing out another impressive victory. With this win, Heracles not only stay unbeaten, they look increasingly like a team with real authority, confidence and momentum and set for a return to the Eredivisie.

VVV VENLO 4-0 FC EMMEN

VVV extended their winning streak to three games in style, sweeping aside FC Emmen at De Koel. With key players Gabin Blancquart and Tijn Joosten unavailable, Marinus Dijkhuizen’s side still started confidently in front of more than 5,000 supporters. Dean Zandbergen set the tone with two first‑half goals, a powerful header from a Lars de Blok cross and a composed finish after a perfectly timed pass from Alex Schalk, giving VVV full control at half time.

Emmen tried to respond early after the break but VVV stayed compact and waited for their moment. When space finally opened up, they struck ruthlessly when Mohammed Odriss picked out Edhy Zuliani at the far post for a simple tap‑in to make it three. Emmen continued to see plenty of the ball, yet VVV’s organisation and efficiency kept them at arm’s length.

The afternoon ended perfectly for the home side when Luis Görlich added a fourth late on, finishing through the legs of Sam Karssies after a clever run and pass from Zuliani. With three straight wins and a dominant performance to match, VVV‑Venlo’s momentum is unmistakable — and confidence in De Koel continues to grow.

MONDAY 31ST AUGUST 2026

JONG AZ 2-1 JONG FC UTRECHT

Jong FC Utrecht made a dream start in Alkmaar, taking the lead inside the first minute when Emmanuel Chigozie Owen broke through and beat Kiyani Zeggen. The early setback gave Jong AZ plenty of time to respond, and they gradually grew into the match. Their comeback began when Ayoub Oufkir was played in behind and calmly finished into the far corner for 1–1. Right after half time, Tycho de Wit tapped in the 2–1 to complete the turnaround. Jong AZ then controlled the remainder of the match despite no more goals materialising.

JONG PSV 1-1 JONG AJAX

Jong PSV and Jong Ajax shared the points on Monday evening in Eindhoven. Ajax struck first after fifteen minutes when Emre Ünüvar turned in a low cross from Levi Acheampong. Both sides created chances in an open first half, but neither could add to the score before the break. The equaliser came midway through the second half. Amir Bouhamdi went down in the box under a challenge from Leroy Fränkel, and Austyn Jones converted the resulting penalty to make it 1–1. Despite opportunities for both teams, the score stayed level, leaving the match without a winner.

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com

Heracles coach Vincent Heilmann had plenty to say about the advantage Eredivisie “B” teams enjoy in the Eerste Divisie, then his players blasted his words out of context, smashing six past Jong FC Utrecht on Monday night. In another chaotic weekend across the Dutch second tier, Will Burns brings you all the drama and talking points.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 21ST AUGUST 2026

FC DEN BOSCH 5-2 FC EINDHOVEN

FC Eindhoven suffered a heavy defeat in the first Brabant derby of the season at De Vliert on Friday night. Kevin van Veen marked his return with an early tap‑in from Mika de Jonge’s low cross, but Den Bosch hit back quickly through Sebastian Karlsson‑Grach. From that moment on, the home side took full control. Karlsson‑Grach struck again from a Mees Laros cross, and although Siegert Baartmans briefly thought he had equalised, his header was ruled out for offside. Before the break, Kevin Monzialo punished more slack defending to make it 3–1.

Den Bosch continued strongly after half‑time, with Devon de Corte heading wide before placing the 4–1 goal into the corner in the 53rd minute. Eindhoven pulled one back late on through Hyman Ali’s neat header, but the hosts had the final word. In stoppage time, Jort Borgmans saved Sheddy Barglan’s initial effort but could do nothing about the rebound, sealing a convincing 5–2 win for Den Bosch.

FC DORDRECHT 0-1 RODA JC

Dordrecht came away empty‑handed on Friday evening, losing 1–0 at home to Roda JC. The first half was evenly balanced, with both sides pushing forward, but Joshua Nisbet’s strike after 22 minutes proved decisive. Dordrecht tried to respond before the break and came out with greater intensity in the second half, creating several chances as the match grew increasingly physical. New signing Lucas Román made his debut, adding energy to the home side’s push for an equaliser.

Despite strong support from the stands and continued pressure in the closing stages, Dordrecht couldn’t find a breakthrough and suffered a narrow defeat. Off the pitch, the club confirmed that they had reached an agreement with SC Telstar on the transfer of their captain Sem Valk, who will move to the Velsen‑Zuid.

FC EMMEN 3-1 JONG AZ

FC Emmen continued their strong start with a convincing 3–1 win over Jong AZ, with the Drenthe side sitting in second. The first half was difficult for Emmen, who struggled to break down the visitors, but the match shifted after the interval. Nelson Amadin opened the scoring shortly after the break, and ten minutes later Freddy Quispel doubled the lead with his fourth goal of the season.

Michael Breij then produced the highlight of the evening, unleashing a stunning long‑range strike to make it 3–0 on 71 minutes. Yoel van de Ban pulled one back for Jong AZ with six minutes to go, but it did little to change the outcome. Emmen’s victory was never in doubt.

HELMOND SPORT 1-1 RKC WAALWIJK

RKC Waalwijk took a point from Friday night’s trip to Helmond Sport, drawing 1–1 at the GS Staalwerken Stadion. Despite dominating possession throughout the first half, RKC went into the break trailing after Mauro Lenaerts finished off a quick counter down the left. The visitors pushed for an equaliser before half‑time, but efforts from a free kick and a long‑range strike by Thijs van Leeuwen were dealt with by the Helmond defence.

After the interval, RKC continued to search for openings. Van Leeuwen forced a save from Menno Bergsen early on, and the pressure finally paid off ten minutes from time. Faissal Al Mazyani whipped in a cross from the flank, and Yoram van der Veen was perfectly placed to fire in the deserved 1–1. Helmond Sport nearly retook the lead moments later, but goalkeeper Niek Schiks stood firm. In a lively final phase both sides chased a winner, with Helmond Sport going closest in the last minute when a shot flew just over. RKC ultimately returned home with a point.

MVV MAASTRICHT 1-0 FC VOLENDAM

FC Volendam failed to take points from their trip to MVV Maastricht, losing 1–0 in Limburg after a bizarre own goal. The relegated side has now dropped points for the second time this season, while MVV — under Andries Jonker — continue their perfect start with nine points from three matches.

Volendam struggled to create chances and fell behind shortly after the break when defender Erik Schouten misjudged a corner and turned the ball into his own net on 53 minutes. The Palingboeren never recovered and failed to score again, in a match that saw six cards dished out by referee Stan Teuben.

VITESSE ARNHEM 0-3 ALMERE CITY

Almere City picked up an impressive away win at Vitesse, pulling away after a balanced first half at the Gelredome. The game only truly opened up after the break. Ferdy Druijf broke the deadlock with a fine finish from a cross by former Vitesse defender Enzo Cornelisse, and substitute Marley Dors made an immediate impact after coming off the bench with Druijf with the assist.

Dors then became supplier himself after he cut inside and beat the goalkeeper at the near post, before Emanuel Poku sealed the result late on with a powerful strike for three. Vitesse failed to score any reply despite shooting 21 times. The victory lifts Almere City to fourth place, while Vitesse drop to 11th.

SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST 2026

NAC BREDA 3-2 JONG AJAX

NAC kept all three points in Breda after a hard‑fought 3–2 win over Jong Ajax. The home side started well, taking an early lead when Rio Hillen’s cross was missed by goalkeeper Joeri Heerkens and headed into his own net by Marvin Muzungu. Soumano missed a big chance to double the score, while Michael Verrips kept NAC ahead with a strong save at the other end. After the break, Jong Ajax equalised through Diego Pugno following a chaotic corner that NAC had to defend with nine men due to the new temporary‑substitution rule. Substitutes Mats Seuntjens and Paul Gladon then combined to restore the lead, with Seuntjens setting up Gladon for an emotional 2–1.

A soft back‑pass from Jan Van den Bergh gifted Emre Ünüvar the 2–2 equaliser, but NAC found a late winner. Eighteen‑year‑old Pepijn Reulen reacted quickest to a rebound from a corner and slotted in the decisive goal, securing the victory. NAC now sit on six points from three matches, while Ajax have suffered three consecutive defeats.

SUNDAY 23RD AUGUST 2026

VVV VENLO 2-1 DE GRAAFSCHAP

After last weeks painful 5-2 defeat at home to Jong AZ, De Graafschap were desperate for redemption on Sunday and VVV helped them early on. Defensive chaos allowed Julian Kania to tap in the opener with ease, but the home side responded well and grew into the match. Just before half‑time, Nassim Ait Mouhou levelled with a flying header, and moments later Raf Vullers completed the turnaround by firing in the 2–1 from a difficult angle.

De Graafschap pushed hard for an equaliser after the break, with Kaya Symons going close from distance, but VVV goalkeeper Youri Schoonderwaldt held firm. That left coach Rick Dijkhuizen, who actually managed De Graafschap from January 2025 to June 2026, celebrating a second straight win. Thomas Duivenvoorden’s struggling side remain on just one point after three matches, while VVV have made a solid start with six points from three games.

MONDAY 17TH AUGUST 2026

JONG PSV 1-0 TOP OSS

TOP Oss are still waiting for their first points after three rounds. Sjors Ultee’s side lost this game despite keeping the hosts under control for much of the match. The best chance even fell to TOP, when Marcelencio Esajas struck the underside of the crossbar after a clever move from Franslyn Nsingi.

Just before half‑time, Jong PSV made them pay. Joël van den Berg pounced on sloppy defending and scored the only goal of the night.

JONG FC UTRECHT 1-6 HERACLES

Earlier in the weekend, Heracles coach Vincent Heilmann voiced a strong opposition to the inclusion of reserve sides in the division, calling their participation as “match‑fixing” and arguing it undermines fair competition. Ahead of the clash with Jong FC Utrecht, Heilmann told Tubantia that the unpredictability of reserve team line‑ups, which can feature first‑team players worth millions, creates an uneven playing field. He pointed to recent examples, including Jong Utrecht’s use of senior squad members and Jong PSV fielding high‑value first-teamers against FC Volendam, warning that such disparities could ultimately influence promotion battles.

So in a total contradiction to his comments, Heilmann’s side pumped Utrecht 6-1!!! They couldn’t have asked for a better start, after just two minutes the referee pointed to the spot, and Tristan van Gilst calmly converted. Moments later, Sem Scheperman doubled the lead with a brilliant strike into the top corner. A quiet half‑hour followed, but Heracles then exploded with two goals in two minutes: the man again, Jean‑Paul N’Djoli made it 3-0, Van Gilst added his second, and just before half‑time Mario Borac headed in number five.

Utrecht pulled one back after the break through Björn Menzo, but Heracles quickly responded. N’Djoli struck again for his second of the evening, taking his season tally to six. The French forward has now scored at least two goals in every league match so far.Vitesse won a penalty and veteran left-back Alexander Büttner stepped up but missed.

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com

The second week of the Eerste Divisie is in the books and a total of FORTY SEVEN goals were scored in one of the most entertaining divisions in the world. Once again Jean‑Paul N’Djoli stole the headlines scoring another two goals, MVV win again while TOP Oss still wait for their first points writes Will Burns.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 14TH AUGUST 2026

ALMERE CITY 3-1 JONG PSV

Almere City flew out of the blocks against Jong PSV, taking the lead after just two minutes when Byron Burgering punished a mistake from goalkeeper Khadim Ngom. Although Fabio Kluit soon equalised for his second goal of the season, although Almere created the better chances and regained control. Burgering turned provider after the break, delivering a sharp cross that left-winger Emmanuel Poku finished for 2–1.

Jong PSV pushed for a response but couldn’t break through, and Almere sealed the win deep into stoppage time. Substitute Ferdy Druijf rose highest in the 94th minute to head in the decisive 3–1, capping a standout performance from Man of the Match Byron Burgering, who scored and assisted to secure the points.

FC EINDHOVEN 2-3 MVV MAASTRICHT

FC Eindhoven took the lead after 15 minutes when Milan Hofland, son of former PSV defender Kevin, accidentally put the ball into his own net. Just before half‑time, MVV’s Stan van Dessel equalised from the penalty spot. After the break, Mika de Jonge tapped in a Guus Beaumont cross to make it 2–1, and MVV looked beaten. But the Limburg side produced a stunning turnaround in stoppage time. Belgian midfielder Olivier Dumont, a summer signing from RWDM Brussles, struck in the 90th minute, and substitute Jaël Pawirodihardjo completed the comeback three minutes later, sealing a dramatic 2–3 win.

HERACLES 3-2 FC DEN BOSCH

Boy oh boy, Heracles are going to be the must see team in this division. After a seven goal thriller last week where they emerged 4-3 winners away to VVV Venlo, they defeated Den Bosch 3-2 in their first home game of the season but they had to wait until the closing stages to secure the win.

Once again, French striker Jean‑Paul N’Djoli, a summer signing from Swiss club FC Wil, stole the show, like last week, notching twice. He now moves onto four goals in two matches. Den Bosch started brightly, but Heracles gradually took control and went ahead just before half‑time when N’Djoli tapped in for 1–0. Goalkeeper Pepijn van de Merbel kept Den Bosch alive with several strong saves, plus help from the crossbar, until Sebastian Karlsson Grach levelled in the 62nd minute from a pass by substitute Sheddy Barglan.

Twelve minutes later, N’Djoli restored Heracles’ lead with a header that took a slight deflection. Karlsson Grach then appeared to rescue a point with a late 2–2, but Heracles struck back almost immediately. In the 89th minute, Tristan van Gilst pounced on a defensive mishap and sealed a 3–2 win for the Almelo side.

Coach Vincent Heilmann was pleased with the win: “The fans had a great night. This fits what we stand for: hardcore attacking football. Sometimes it goes wrong, sometimes it goes right. ‘Welcome to the Keuken Kampioen Divisie,’ I told the boys last week.”

He also hinted at a possible new strike partnership now that Kulenovic is available again with N’Djoli. “I don’t rule out them playing together. You see them high‑fiving when one comes off for the other. It’s not about outdoing your teammate,” Heilmann concluded.

NAC BREDA 0-2 VVV VENLO

The Rat Verlegh Stadion was filled with emotion on Friday night. NAC may have lost to VVV-Venlo, but the evening will be remembered most for the touching tribute to the recently passed Bob Maaskant and the heartfelt support shown to Mats Seuntjens and his partner Elba. Seuntjens, who tragically lost his newborn daughter recently, was listed as a substitute. NAC’s start was disastrous as after just four minutes, VVV winger Edhy Zuliani cut inside and curled a superb shot into the net. Early in the second half, the Algerian struck again, deepening the frustration at Rat Verlegh Stadium.

The discontenting murmurs from the stands soon gave way to a touching show of support for Seuntjens on 55 minutes when he replaced Raul Paula. However, Breda were unable to claw back a goal or two despite taking 23 shots with 5 on target and settled for the 2-0 defeat. Venlo only took 6 shots, 4 on target while scoring the two goals.

After the match, the NAC supporters delivered a deeply moving tribute to Seuntjens and Elba. Fans held up lights, sang to the couple for several minutes and raised a banner that translated to: “Heaven has gained another little star.”

RODA JC 2-1 HELMOND SPORT

Roda JC earned their first win of the season against Helmond Sport, though it didn’t look that way after half an hour when Koen Jansen accidentally turned the ball into his own net. The response was quick: five minutes later Mitchel Paulissen delivered a corner and Marco Tol headed in the equaliser, bringing the home side level.

Early in the second half, Lucas Beerten completed the turnaround by tapping in at the far post from another corner, securing a 2–1 victory. Roda JC were the better team throughout, and Beerten’s goal ensured the points stayed in Kerkrade despite Helmond Sport’s early advantage.

RKC WAALWIJK 2-2 FC DORDRECHT

RKC had started the season with a point at Vitesse and faced FC Dordrecht on Friday evening. The visitors took an early lead through Dario Sits, but Keyan Varela made it 1–1 shortly after the break when his shot slipped through goalkeeper Calvin Raatsie’s hands. In the 73rd minute, Nicolás Rossi restored Dordrecht’s advantage with an effort that deflected off substitute Sven van der Plas.

RKC pushed late on without creating much, yet in the first minute of stoppage time debutant Haye van Gemert still found the net, earning a 2–2 draw. Both assists for Dordrecht came from Feyenoord loanee Ayoub Ouarghi. team had to return to Volendam without any points. 

SATURDAY 15TH AUGUST 2026

FC VOLENDAM 3-0 TOP OSS

Despite ending up winning 3-0, in the first half, Volendam didn’t look on course for the result, as TOP Oss did inititally create the better chances. Richard van der Venne and Mauresmo Hinoke both failed to beat Volendam stopper Roy Steur, then Volendam struck home with their first real opportunity.

Nordin Bukala’s low driving shot from outside the area finding the net with a bit of luck (deflection) to take the lead. Moments later, Deron Payne’s evening was over after he took heavy challenges from Jafar Bynoe and Van der Venne, who were both booked, and Trindad and Tobago international had to be substituted. That alone was not cause for panic, but coach Erwin van de Looi had more problems to solve when Mawouna Amevor went off later in the half and Mike Kleijn was withdrawn at the break.

Despite finishing the match with three substitute defenders, Volendam held firm. TOP Oss were far less convincing after half‑time, and the home side took control. Twenty minutes from the end, Henk Veerman headed the ball down for substitute Alex Plat, not known for his goal scoring prowess, calmly made it 2–0. Plat then wrapped up the afternoon with a tidy finish from a pinpoint Nick Doodeman cross, sealing a 3–0 victory for the men in Orange.

MONDAY 17TH AUGUST 2026

DE GRAAFSCHAP 2-5 JONG AZ

Jong AZ picked up its first win of the season with an impressive 5–2 victory over De Graafschap. The Alkmaar reserves proved too strong in a lively contest at De Vijverberg, pulling away after the break for a comfortable three points.

AZ’s head coach Frank Peereboom made two changes from the opening‑day defeat to FC Eindhoven, bringing in Andrea Natali and Matěj Šín for Sem van Duijn and Julian Sijbrands. De Graafschap started brightly, with Rowan Besselink hitting both the bar and post, but Jong AZ struck first when Julian Oerip capitalised on a defensive mistake to make it 1–0.

After several missed chances, De Graafschap equalised through Donny Warmerdam’s long‑range effort. Ten minutes into the second half, Jong AZ regained control when Bendeguz Kovács converted a penalty, and Rio Robbemond soon added a clever free‑kick for 3–1. Van Zijl pulled one back late on, but Ayoub Oufkir sealed the win with two goals in the closing stages, completing a dominant 5–2 performance.

JONG AJAX 4-6 FC EMMEN

FC Emmen moved to the top of the Keuken Kampioen Divisie after winning a wild ten-goal thriller against Jong Ajax at De Toekomst. The first half was chaotic and ended 3-3. Diego Pugno put Jong Ajax ahead inside the first minute, but Freddy Quispel equalised almost immediately. Jong Ajax went 3–1 up through Emre Ünüvar and Pugno, only for summer signing from Burton Albion, Jack Cooper‑Love to reply with a penalty and Nelson Amadin to drag Emmen level again in first-half stoppage time.

In the second half, Quispel headed home to gain the lead and Cooper‑Love added another to stretch the lead just after the hour mark. Ajax’s Ünüvar scored his second with a long‑range effort, but Cooper‑Love finished the job late on, completing his hat‑trick and sealing the 6-4 win.

JONG FC UTRECHT 1-3 VITESSE ARNHEM

Vitesse claimed a win away in Utrecht after Naoufal Bannis put them in front after half an hour, but Emmanuel Chigozie Owen levelled just before the break.

The match did take a long time to come to life after Vitesse stopper Maximilian Brüll made two important saves early on. Around half an hour in, Vitesse struck with their first real attack. Filipe de Carvalho’s low cross found Bannis to score. Ten minutes later, De Carvalho missed a big chance to double the lead, and Jong Utrecht punished it almost immediately when Emmanuel Chigozie Owen, a summer signing from Bayer Leverkusen, fired home the equaliser.

Early in the second half, Ayman Sellouf put Vitesse back in front after a low cross from Nathan Markelo. Pontus Dahbo, signed earlier this week from BK Hacken in Sweden, was brought on and impressed with several lively actions.

Bannis then made it 1–3 with a smart header from Marco Schikora’s pass, effectively deciding the match. Utrecht’s frustration boiled over when Noa Dundas punched Schikora and was sent off, leaving Vitesse with a man advantage for the final fifteen minutes. In the 89th minute, Vitesse won a penalty and veteran left-back Alexander Büttner stepped up but missed.

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com

A wild opening week in the second tier of Dutch football. A seven-goal thriller in Venlo, a dodgy sending off in Arnhem and more writes Will Burns.

I have attached highlights from the clubs’ official or ESPN.nl’s YouTube channel where available so you can watch while you read along.

FRIDAY 7TH AUGUST 2026

FC DORDRECHT 2-1 JONG AJAX

Jong Ajax began the new season with a 2–1 defeat to FC Dordrecht, a result that could easily have gone the other way. It marked a disappointing debut for new coach Carlos García, who stepped up after serving as assistant to Oscar García last year.

The visitors made a perfect start when Pharell Nash scored after just four minutes, but Dordrecht hit back almost immediately and took the lead inside fifteen minutes. Nick Venema’s cross found Ayoub Ouarghi unmarked at the far post, and he finished neatly past goalkeeper Heerkens.

Despite several chances from Nash, Emre Ünüvar and Diego Pugno, Ajax couldn’t find an equaliser. García’s side featured several debutants, including Pugno and Jano Monserrate, while Fouad Zahouani came on late. None could prevent former Jong Ajax coach Paul Nuijten from guiding Dordrecht to victory.

FC EMMEN 1-0 RODA JC

FC Emmen fought to a 1–0 win over Roda JC, thanks to a decisive strike from Freddy Quispel midway through the second half. For more than an hour the match at De Oude Meerdijk looked destined to finish goalless, with both sides creating only half‑chances, until Quispel finally broke the deadlock. Casper Staring slipped him in from the right, Quispel found a pocket of space, and calmly guided the ball into the far corner past Justin Treichel.

Emmen had the better of the play throughout, especially early on, though clear chances were rare. Quispel fired a tame effort and Jack Cooper‑Love couldn’t trouble the keeper, while at the other end Emmen survived a scare when Koen Jansen’s driven cross smashed off the bar and the rebound was ruled offside.

After the break, Roda appealed for a penalty when Dyon Dorenbosch went down, but referee Martin Perez waved it away — perhaps influenced by an earlier dive from Cain Seedorf. Moments later, Emmen struck through Quispel.

TOP OSS 1-2 NAC BREDA

NAC snatched a late 2-1 win away at TOP Oss, thanks to goals from substitutes Moussa Soumano and Pepijn Reulen. NAC’s coach Carl Hoefkens had to cope with several absences: Mats Seuntjens and Kamal Sowah were unavailable due to personal circumstances, while Brahim Ghalidi is still recovering from injury. New signings Michael Verrips, Jan van den Bergh, Jannes Van Hecke and Paul Gladon all started.

NAC created early pressure through long‑range efforts from Raul Paula and two dangerous moments from Rio Hillen, but TOP Oss struck first. In the 19th minute, a loose cross caused chaos, Verrips made an initial save, but Franslyn Nsigni reacted quickest to force the ball in. NAC responded with a Van den Bergh header, and Verrips kept his side alive with a strong stop on a clear TOP Oss chance.

After the break, NAC pushed hard for an equaliser. Gladon and his teammates hit the post twice in the same attack, and TOP Oss later clipped the crossbar themselves. The breakthrough finally came with 25 minutes left when Soumano, returning from injury, tapped in the 1–1. NAC sensed momentum and threw everything forward.

Deep into stoppage time, Boyd Lucassen delivered the assist for Reulen, who calmly slotted home the winner to seal all three points to round off a promising opening night, and a strong start to Hoefkens’ third year in charge.

VVV VENLO 3-4 HERACLES ALMELO

Heracles Almelo looked in full control for most of their season opener, but the final fifteen minutes turned the match into chaos. Despite throwing away a comfortable lead, Vincent Heilmann’s side still managed to beat VVV‑Venlo in a wild 3–4 victory.

Heilmann handed a debut to goalkeeper Fabian de Keijzer, chosen for his experience and ability to guide a defence featuring three new signings: David Vicente Robles, Mario Borac and Manny Rodriguez.

Heracles should have led early when Max Hauswirth went one‑on‑one with Youri Schoonderwaldt, but the VVV keeper saved well. The breakthrough finally came just before half‑time when Tristan van Gilst converted a penalty after Chafik Abbas was fouled. Moments later, Heracles doubled their lead: Manny Rodriguez burst down the left and crossed for Vicente Robles to tap in for 0–2.

The only setback was the early injury to Jeff Reine‑Adélaïde, who impressed before being forced off after 20 minutes. Djevencio van der Kust replaced him. Heracles dominated after the break and created chance after chance, but it took until the 70th minute for Jean‑Paul N’Djoli to finish a counterattack and make it 0–3. The match looked over — until VVV suddenly came alive.

Dean Zandbergen sparked a dramatic comeback, scoring twice after sloppy defending from Heracles. Then debutant Devy Hendrix made it 3–3 in the 86th minute, completing an unlikely turnaround. But Heracles weren’t done. N’Djoli stepped up again, smashing an absolute wondergoal from long‑range to seal a frantic 4-3 win.

Afterwards, Heilmann admitted the match was far from comfortable. “Great for the fans, not so great for a coach,” he said. He also addressed Reine‑Adélaïde’s injury: “During the minutes he played, he was the best player on the pitch. Jeff is a fantastic footballer and a great person. For him and for us, I hope it’s nothing serious.”

VITESSE ARNHEM 1-1 RKC WAALWIJK

Vitesse looked set for a perfect start to the new season, but a moment of madness from goalkeeper Connor van den Berg cost them the win. After his red card and the resulting penalty, Rüdiger Rehm’s side had to settle for a 1–1 draw against RKC Waalwijk.

The 21-year old playmaker, Mathijs Marschalk was everywhere, switching play, pressing, and driving the team forward. His best moment came after half an hour, when he calmly plucked a long ball out of the air, flicked it over Jesse van de Haar, and then wrong‑footed Azzeddine Dkidak in one smooth sequence. Despite his energy, Vitesse created little before the break. Aside from a few crosses and a powerful effort from Ricardo‑Felipe Schwarz, they rarely threatened. RKC weren’t much better, though Van de Haar did hit the crossbar with a header.

Vitesse finally broke through thanks to Omar Achouitar. The centre‑back dribbled forward from deep, stumbled as he shot, but still managed to guide the ball to the far post where Naoufal Bannis finished for 1–0. Marschalk almost doubled the lead after the hour mark, but his strike flew wide. By then, Vitesse were clearly the better side.

Then everything changed. With the ball already in his hands, goalkeeper Van den Berg inexplicably elbowed Nazjir Held, a needless act that earned him a straight red card and handed RKC a penalty. However, the replay showed that Held made an absolute meal of it. Finn Stokkers converted, making it 1–1. Down to ten men, Vitesse had to survive the final minutes under pressure. They held firm, but the three points had slipped away.

SATURDAY 8TH AUGUST 2026

FC DEN BOSCH 1-1 ALMERE CITY

FC Den Bosch and Almere City shared the points at De Vliert. Ilias Boumassaoudi scored a brilliant curler early in the second half to give the hosts the lead, but Ferdy Druijf quickly headed in the equaliser.

Den Bosch started brightly, though the first big chance went to Almere. Emmanuel Poku broke through and set up Olivier de Nijs, whose shot was blocked at the last moment. Marley Dors then forced a save from Pepijn van de Merbel, and Poku smashed the crossbar soon after.

The goals arrived after the break. Monzialo switched play to Boumassaoudi, who cut inside and bent a superb shot into the far corner for 1–0. Almere responded quickly: Dors delivered a perfect cross to Druijf at the back post, and his header went in off the upright.

Both teams pushed for a winner. Poku had a goal ruled out because the ball had already crossed the byline, Boumassaoudi was denied by a goal‑line clearance, and Byron Burgering slid a late chance just wide. In the end, neither side could find a second goal, and it finished 1–1.

SUNDAY 9TH AUGUST 2026

HELMOND SPORT 1-1 DE GRAAFSCHAP

New De Graafschap coach Thomas Duivenvoorden saw his side struggle badly in the first half, falling behind early to a Dean Huiberts goal and surviving two big chances from Livio Cicero, who failed to finish.

Only in the final 20 minutes before the break did De Graafschap push Helmond back, though chances remained scarce. Despite that, they went into half‑time level when Fedde de Jong tapped in from close range in stoppage time — a goal that hardly reflected their performance.

Duivenvoorden brought on German striker Julian Kania at the break, which added energy and forced Helmond deeper. De Graafschap pressed, but aside from a Joran Hardeman header, clear chances didn’t come.

Helmond Sport finished strongly and created two late opportunities through Van der Velden and Zimuangana, but couldn’t find a winner. The Superboeren escaped with a point, but it was a disappointing start.

MVV MAASTRICHT 2-1 JONG FC UTRECHT

MVV scored within two minutes of both halves in their 2–1 win over Jong Utrecht. First, Lennerd Daneels delivered a perfect corner for Ilias Breugelmans to head in. After the break, Delano Asante and Elias Sierra sliced through the Utrecht defence, with Sierra finishing the move.

The win was deserved. Nearly 4,000 fans came to watch Andries Jonker’s return and MVV immediately took control. Their early lead didn’t last long, though after Bjorn Menzo broke through and beat Hugo Wentges to make it 1–1. MVV kept attacking, creating several good moves, but Utrecht’s defence and goalkeeper held firm. New striker Toni Vinogradac worked hard but had a painful debut, forced off after half an hour with what looked like a hamstring injury.

Jaël Pawirodihardjo replaced him and MVV stayed on the front foot, scoring quickly after the restart for 2–1. From there, Jonker’s side played with maturity, relying on pace from Asante and Pawirodihardjo on the counter. The new midfield trio, Stan Van Dessel, Olivier Dumont and Elias Sierra, impressed with their control and composure. Full-backs Sil van der Wegen and Milan Hofland also grew into the game, while Daneels remained dangerous throughout.

Pawirodihardjo thought he had sealed the match late on, but his goal was ruled out for offside. In the final minutes, Wentges made a crucial save from a header to protect the lead.

MONDAY 10TH AUGUST 2026

JONG AZ 0-1 FC EINDHOVEN

In Wijdewormer, FC Eindhoven looked set to drop points even after Mika de Jonge’s unbelievable miss, hesitating in front of an empty net long nough for a defender to clear. But central defender Owen Renfrum made sure it didn’t matter. His header from a Niek Munsters corner sealed the first three points of the season for the Aalsterweg side.

Jong AZ welcomed back Sem van Duijn, returning to Alkmaar after a strong spell at Telstar where he scored five goals in 14 matches. He nearly marked his comeback with an opener but squandered a golden chance. FC Eindhoven, meanwhile, had Jort Borgmans to thank as the goalkeeper produced five saves, to keep a clean sheet, and ensured all three points went to the visitors.

JONG PSV 3-2 FC VOLENDAM

Henk Veerman must have thought he had give his side all three points when he hit two goals against Jong PSV from a goal down, however, failure to shut up shop at the other end saw Veerman and FC Volendam lose all three points before the 90 minutes was up.

Jong PSV fielded a strong lineup with first-teamers Yarek Gasiorowski and Esmir Bajraktarevic starting looking for match fitness. They input showed as Stijn Schaars’ side controlled the opening stages. Fabio Kluit put them ahead after 20 minutes, much to the frustration of the travelling fans from North Holland. But the relegated Wijdbroeken still had Veerman.

Nick Doodeman whipped in a free kick and the towering striker headed in a surprise equaliser. An hour in, Mohammed Belfqih set up Veerman again, and he made it 2–1. Ten minutes from time, Joël van den Berg pounced on a rebound to level things at 2–2, setting up a tense finish. In the final minute, things turned out differently. Shuryjano Cornecion scored from a cross from the right, meaning Erwin van de Looi and his team had to return to Volendam without any points. 

Please gamble responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

TotalDutchFootball.com