Old Trafford is set for a competitive clash between the red devils and AZ Alkmaar. This is coming after Manchester United’s victory over their city rivals last week. No doubt, last week’s hard-fought fight against Manchester City is a headline-worthy victory, that will remain on tabloids and newspaper pages, all season long. The season began with Man United threading the rocky path at home and away, but their recent success against their local challengers, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, has shown beyond possible doubt that the red devils are here to win.

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Whereas Manchester United’s transition to the next phase of the competition is already guaranteed, both teams have equal opportunity to claim the topmost position on Group L table of the Europa League playoffs. AZ Alkmaar may not have won all five previous matches, but they have proven to be a formidable opponent regardless of which side they field. Most games where they have emerged victorious over their opponents this season ended with AZ Alkmaar scoring at least three goals. So if United thinks AZ Alkmaar will be a walkover, they’ll have to think again.

What the scoreboards say

Of a truth, United seems to be the better of the two teams, as they have won four of their six previous matches to get to this point of the competition. It is also worth mentioning that they came out victorious after a one on one encounter with AZ Alkmaar in October. During that time, United didn’t have the rhythm and direction that it has now amongst its ranks. Now, with a much-changed and more developed 11, Manchester United seems to be the best contender for the top position on the table. Keep in mind that the playoff will be happening at old Trafford, United’s home, a place where no one has been able to defeat them in 9 matches.

On the other hand, it may not be all flowers and roses for Manchester United. From the beginning of the season, United has been having problems with its defense. Against a team with ferocious attackers like AZ Alkmaar, they may find it a lot harder to keep a clean sheet throughout the match. Don’t forget that AZ Alkmaar has had a goal-filled campaign this season, and as such, they may pose a threat to United’s defense. If anyone can break the red devil’s 9-match unbeaten stretch at home, AZ Alkmaar will be the preferred choice.

When all is said and done, the only chance either of the teams has at winning the showdown at Old Trafford is if they bring their A-game to the playing field.