Eredivisie Playoffs 2025-2026: Utrecht-Heerenveen, likely lineups

Wednesday night at 9 p.m., the spotlight will turn on Stadion Galgenwaard for the second semifinal of the Eredivisie playoffs between Utrecht and Heerenveen, an inside or outside in a dry game that puts the second pass to the finals up for grabs. The two sides come to this fixture after finishing the regular season in sixth and eighth place in the standings, respectively, separated by just two lengths testifying to the great balance between the two clubs. If Utrecht will be able to take advantage of the important home factor and a solid domestic streak, Veldman’s Whites will try to make the most of their dangerousness on the road, while having to make up for a defense that has appeared too fragile during the course of the championship. Tonight’s ninety minutes will determine who will challenge the winner of Ajax-Groningen in the last, decisive act to clinch the next Conference League slot.

Jans will rely on a very closed and compact team, with an attacking tandem formed by Alarcón and bomber Sébastien Haller. In the midfield, Zechiel and Engwanda will act as a filter, while the central pair Vesterlund-Eerdhuijzen will lead the backline in front of Barkas.

Veldman responds with a dense five-man midfield composed of Meerveld, Oyen, Linday, van Overeem and Trenskow, aiming to give amggiore density and support the only forward Dylan Vente. In front of goalkeeper Klaverboer acts the defensive line led by Kersten and Zagaritis.

Probable formations

Utrecht (4-4-2): Barkas; El Karouani, Vesterlund, Eerdhuijzen, Cathline; Dani de Wit, Zechiel, Engwanda, Karlsson; Alarcón, Haller. All. Jans.

Heerenveen (4-5-1): Klaverboer; Willemsen, Kersten, Zagaritis, Egbring; Meerveld, Oyen, Linday, van Overeem, Trenskow; Vente. All. Veldman.