AZ Alkmaar shook off the memory of their 4-0 defeat to AEK Larnaca three weeks ago, claiming their first victory of this season’s UEFA Conference League group stage. The Dutch side controlled the game against SK Slovan Bratislava at AFAS Stadion, edging a 1-0 win that reflected dominance more than the scoreline suggested.
AZ’s First-Half Dominance
From the opening whistle, AZ stamped their authority on the match. The home side fired off 15 shots in the first 45 minutes, with Sven Mijnans repeatedly testing Slovan goalkeeper Dominik Takáč. Despite Takáč’s heroic saves, Mijnans finally broke through just before halftime, finishing Denso Kasius’ cross into the far corner. The goal highlighted AZ’s attacking intent, although a penalty opportunity in stoppage time went begging when Takáč denied Mijnans a quick double.
Second-Half Pressure Without Reward
While AZ’s dominance eased slightly after the break, they remained firmly on the front foot. Troy Parrot came close to extending the lead, his header skimming the post in the final stages of the match. Slovan Bratislava struggled to respond, managing only two shots in the entire game, keeping them under constant pressure but ultimately unable to threaten AZ’s defense.
Late Red Card Adds to Slovan’s Woes
The Slovakian side’s night worsened when Sandro Cruz received a straight red card for elbowing an AZ defender. The dismissal left Slovan reduced to ten men and summed up their difficult evening, as AZ controlled the remainder of the game with relative ease.
Looking Ahead
With this win, AZ now has momentum to push for a knockout stage berth, having also had to play their match earlier due to Storm Benjamin. Slovan Bratislava, meanwhile, remain without a point in the group phase and face an uphill battle to recover in upcoming fixtures.
