AZ Alkmaar vs Hapoel Beer Sheva prediction

THE FORECAST

AZ hold a massive UEFA ranking advantage (40 vs 137) and play at home, where they have not lost since February, making them clear favourites despite a shaky start to their Europa League campaign. Both sides face a tight turnaround — Hapoel must play league football just two days after this match, raising the likelihood of rotation and reduced intensity from the Israeli side, who also carry a lengthy injury list. The pleasant, mild conditions suit AZ's pressing style and the ranking gap is large enough to back a home win, though AZ's own injury concerns and consecutive draws temper the margin slightly.