NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated tie in the Eredivisie this weekend, with kick-off at 16:30 at the Stadion de Goffert. Both teams are going into the game with differing agendas—NEC hoping to chase a top-half finish, while Excelsior look to start well this season.
NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior – Match Overview
- Date: Saturday, 9 August 2025
- Kick-Off Time: 16:30 (Local Time)
- Stadium: Stadion de Goffert, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- League: Eredivisie 2025/26
The match will witness an NEC Nijmegen side full of attacking talent taking on an Excelsior side that is known to thrive on quick counter-attacks. With each side eager to gain three points at the beginning of the season, fans are in for a thrilling game.
NEC Nijmegen Form Guide
NEC Nijmegen have enjoyed a good pre-season, winning five out of their last six matches. Their forwards have been firing on all cylinders, with Sontje Hansen in red-hot form, linking well with their midfield creators. NEC have also been efficient at home, scoring in every home match since April.
- Last 5 Matches (All Competitions): W-W-W-D-W
- Goals Scored: 13
- Goals Conceded: 5
With home lead and striking prowess, NEC will look to dictate possession and press high up.
Excelsior Form Guide
Excelsior return to Eredivisie action with added confidence after an unbeaten six-match pre-season run. Their defensive organization and quick transitions have been key to recent displays. Talisman Corps striker Troy Parrott will probably lead the line and try NEC's defense.
- Last 5 Matches (All Competitions): W-D-W-W-D
- Goals Scored: 9
- Goals Conceded: 4
However, NEC on the road has always been a tough character test for Excelsior.
NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior – Head-to-Head Stats (H2H)
NEC Nijmegen have a better record against Excelsior in recent matches, as per H2H stats. From their last 10 matches, NEC have won 6, Excelsior have won 2, and 2 matches were drawn.
- Last Game: NEC Nijmegen 3-0 Excelsior (Eredivisie, March 2025)
- Average Goals per Game: 3.1
- Both Teams Scored: 7 of the last 9 games
This game is a scoring specialist, so it's a safe bet for Over 2.5 Goals.
Predicted Lineups
NEC Nijmegen (4-3-3):
Branderhorst (GK); Van Rooij, Odenthal, Sandler, Proper; Schone, Bruijn, Tavsan; Hansen, Mattsson, Dimata.
Excelsior (4-2-3-1):
Van Gassel (GK); Eijssen, Nieuwpoort, Baas, Goudmijn; Koorevaar, Wieffer; Azarkan, Meerdink, Parrott; Baas.
Key Players to Watch
- Sontje Hansen (NEC Nijmegen): NEC's most deadly forward with pace, creativity, and an eye for goal.
- Troy Parrott (Excelsior): Clinical finisher who enjoys counter-attacks.
- Lasse Schone (NEC): Veteran midfielder controlling the tempo of the match.
NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior – Prediction & Betting Tips
Prediction: NEC Nijmegen 2-1 Excelsior
- Both Teams to Score (BTTS): Yes ✅
- Over 2.5 Goals: Yes ✅
- First Goal Scorer: Sontje Hansen ✅
The home record of NEC and attacking talent must carry them through, but the counter-attacking prowess of Excelsior means we are likely to see goals at both ends.
Where to Watch NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior Live
Fans can stream the NEC Nijmegen vs Excelsior live stream on ESPN NL, Viaplay (Netherlands), or follow live commentary and score updates on websites like SofaScore and FotMob.