AZ vs Jagiellonia Bialystok Prediction: Cagey clash expected at the AFAS

AZ Alkmaar head into Thursday's final round of Conference League league-phase matches knowing a win would book their spot in the playoff phase or even the round of 16, with the top eight qualifying for the latter. 

However, they are not the only side heading to their AFAS Stadium home with something to play for, as visitors Jagiellonia Bialystok sit 18th in the 36-team standings, meaning a positive result would also likely secure their spot in the playoffs. With so much on the line, a cagey encounter could play out in Alkmaar when the two do battle on Thursday. Below you can find my AZ vs Jagiellonia Bialystok predictions. 

Team news

AZ have no fresh injury concerns but will again be without former Southampton midfielder Jordy Clasie, Dutch defender Denso Kasius and young forward Mexx Meerdink.

Jagiellonia have no confirmed absentees but will have to assess exciting striker Afimico Pululu, who was forced off with a knock in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Lublin.

Football Odds

Today's Football Fixtures

AZ vs Jagiellonia Odds

Hosts Alkmaar are strong 8/15 favourites to pick up three points, with Jagiellonia 5/1 and the draw 16/5.

Both teams to score is available at 4/6 but net-bulging action could be limited and the 5/4 for under 2.5 goals makes more appeal.

Under 2.5 goals @ 5/4

Two wins in as many league-phase home games means Alkmaar are strong favourites for this clash but while a victory is likely, it is not guaranteed to be a convincing one.

Despite playing Slovan Bratislava and Shelbourne, two sides in the bottom six of the league-phase table, Maarten Martens' side could only manage 1-0 and 2-0 wins, suggesting under 2.5 goals is a better selection for Thursday's clash.

Jagiellonia have proved tough to beat on the road, too, earning 1-1 draws at Strasbourg and Shkendija, further enhancing the appeal of under three goals overall on the night.

Both teams head to Alkmaar with stakes and under 2.5 goals looks set to land for the fifth time in six Conference League games for Jagiellonia.

Over 9.5 corners @ 5/6

While the goal count may be low at the AFAS Stadium, the corner tally is likely to soar.

Three of Alkmaar's last four Conference League games have produced at least 10 corners and they racked up 12 of their own in their last European home outing against Bratislava.

The corner count has also reached double figures in three of Bialystok's five league-phase games, including each of the last two, making over 9.5 a decent line for Thursday's clash.

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