FC Emmen vs Excelsior prediction: NETHERLANDS: Eredivisie betting tips on match 2023-03-10 15:30.
This fixture between FC Emmen and Excelsior Rotterdam is a relegation classic that is bound to give both sets of supporters some sleepless nights in the leadup to the early afternoon start. Although both clubs are still ahead of Groningen and Cambuur, those two clubs recently booked big victories to intensify the pressure on these two out-of-sorts clubs. It must be a little reassuring for Emmen fans that this match will take place in De Oude Meerdijk, where their club have lost only twice in league football (W2, D8).
Emmen have taken some big names at home throughout the season such as FC Utrecht (3-2) and PSV Eindhoven (1-0), but five draws from five home meetings with opponents starting this round 12th or lower in the standings illustrate that there have been plenty of missed opportunities along the way. But on this occasion, they’re hosting the only club with a poorer away record than theirs!
Some dramatically poor performances on the road (W1, D1, L10, -28) are not the only concerns for Excelsior manager Marinus Dijkhuizen. His team have conceded an alarming 15 goals in their last four games, scoring only once in reply. Last weekend’s 4-1 home loss in a Rotterdam derby against Sparta would have been painful, especially as Excelsior were unbeaten against the Spartans for 12 straight matches prior to losing both H2Hs this season. That is just one indication of the struggles they’re going through.
Given they’re the equal second-lowest scoring side in the league (21 goals alongside Emmen) and by far the worst defence conceded (58 goals), it is a minor miracle that Excelsior are not yet in the relegation zone. That is despite goalkeeper Stijn van Gassel doing his darndest and making at least 18 more saves this Eredivisie season than any other custodian going into the matchweek. The only consolation as far as this game is concerned is that Emmen may not keep him particularly busy!
Players to watch: Mark Diemers provided an assist in two of his last three Eredivisie games, whilst Couhaib Driouech struck in each of his last two appearances in which he was on the pitch in both halves.
Hot stat: Emmen have registered fewer opening goals (six; W2, D2, L2) this Eredivisie season than any other side.