Feyenoord climb to first place in the Eredivisie after 2-0 win over AZ in De Kuip

Javi Lopez scores the 2-0 for Feyenoord against AZ in the Eredivisie game on October 10, 2026, in De Kuip. - Credit: - License: All Rights Reserved Sports Saturday, 10 October 2026 - 21:21

Feyenoord beat AZ Alkmaar 2-0 at De Kuip in Rotterdam on Saturday in the Eredivisie. Nacho Ferri and Javi López scored the goals as Feyenoord took all 3 points against one of their main rivals to climb to the top of the table.

It was a match that proves the importance of effective finishing. AZ had 57% possession and a similar expected-goals figure, but registered only 2 shots on target and no big chances according to the match statistics. Feyenoord got 6 big chances, by comparison.

AZ were missing Kees Smit and Jizz Hornkamp were unavailable, while Denso Kasius returned to the matchday squad after injury.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side took the lead in the 13th minute. Spanish striker Nacho Ferri opened the scoring with a right-footed shot from inside the penalty area, finding the bottom-left corner after an error from AZ defender Wouter Goes. Feyenoord had already threatened through Luciano Valente and Jeremiah St. Juste, while AZ goalkeeper Jari De Busser was beaten for the opener.

AZ threatened an immediate response. Mexx Meerdink tested Feyenoord goalkeeper Tjark Ernst with a right-footed effort from the right side of the penalty area. Ernst saved it, keeping Feyenoord in front.

One of the most significant moments of the game came in the 43rd minute. Meerdink went down in the penalty area after contact with goalkeeper Ernst, and referee Danny Makkelie initially awarded AZ a penalty. The video assistant referee (VAR) recommended an on-field review, after which Makkelie overturned his decision.

Feyenoord doubled their lead just before the hour mark. Javi Lopez converted from a corner taken by Charles Vanhoutte, who was rated as the player of the match by many reports.

AZ attempted to force some late chances, but Feyenoord were never put in any real danger, and the Rotterdammers were able to comfortably climb to the top spot.