We don't have confirmed lineups or formations from the brief — no coach names, no tactical templates for either side. But we know the terrain. Utrecht at the Galgenwaard will likely set up in a compact, organised block, looking to frustrate and hit on the break. They are not a side that dominates possession for fun; they are second-ball merchants, physical in the duels, dangerous from set-pieces. Expect them to sit a little deeper, invite AZ onto them, and try to nick something from a corner or a long throw.

Alkmaar, by contrast, are the more progressive outfit. They like to control the tempo, play through the thirds, and their full-backs push high to create overloads in wide areas. With a 2-0 win already under their belts, they will come to Utrecht believing they can dictate. The midfield dogfight will be key — if AZ's double pivot can screen the defence and feed their wide runners, they will knife through Utrecht's lines. If Utrecht's midfield can disrupt that rhythm, we get a scrappy, low-scoring affair. But AZ's recent form suggests they will find the space.