Willem II seek a way up as PEC Zwolle visit Tilburg

Willem II need a change in direction

Willem II go into Friday’s Eredivisie meeting on a six-match losing streak and without a win in eleven league games. With 2 points from 11 matches, they sit 18th in the 18-team table and will be looking to start climbing the standings at home to PEC Zwolle.

The visitors are 14th on 11 points, four places and nine points above Willem II. That gap makes this a significant opportunity for the hosts to gain ground, but PEC Zwolle have recently shown greater consistency.

A difficult run against a steadier visitor

Willem II have lost their last five league matches, scoring four goals and conceding 20. Across 11 games, they have two draws and nine defeats, with 10 goals scored and 39 conceded. Their home record is also a concern: one draw and four defeats in five matches, with no clean sheets.

PEC Zwolle’s recent run is more encouraging. They are unbeaten in three and their last five league games brought two wins, a draw and two defeats, with six goals scored and six conceded. Overall, they have three wins and two draws from 11 matches. Away from home, they have taken one win and two draws in five outings.

PEC Zwolle have had the edge

The last five meetings across competitions have produced three PEC Zwolle wins, one Willem II victory and one draw. Their most recent encounter, in May 2025, ended in a 2-1 PEC Zwolle win at Willem II. Two of those five meetings featured two goals or fewer.

Absences on both sides

Willem II are without J. Hoogma, who has a knee injury, and A. Lachkar, who is sidelined with a groin injury. PEC Zwolle have S. Floranus and F. Krastev unavailable through injury, while G. Rahajaan is inactive.

Goals and defensive resolve in focus

Willem II need to find a way to tighten a defence that has conceded 20 times in their last five league matches. Their four goals in that spell underline the challenge at both ends. PEC Zwolle have been more balanced lately, scoring and conceding six each across their last five, and will look to make that steadiness count.

Our prediction

PEC Zwolle’s unbeaten run and stronger league position give them the clearer platform, while Willem II’s recent defensive record is a concern. The hosts can still pose a threat, but the visitors look better placed to take advantage and extend their positive run.

Willem II 1-2 PEC Zwolle