AZ Alkmaar have request granted to give them advantage over Tottenham

AZ Alkmaar enter the Europa League Round of 16 second leg against Tottenham Hotspur with a key advantage, as the Dutch club successfully secured a scheduling change that grants them additional preparation time before the crucial clash in London.

With a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, AZ aim to capitalize on their extra rest and deliver a major upset by eliminating Spurs from the competition.

Despite being outplayed in the first leg, Tottenham remain in contention and will look to overturn the deficit in front of their home supporters at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Ange Postecoglou’s side face immense pressure to progress to the quarterfinals, as their season hangs in the balance. A strong response is necessary, but their path has been made more difficult by Alkmaar’s extended preparation period.

AZ originally had a domestic fixture scheduled against RKC Waalwijk on Sunday, but the game was rescheduled to Tuesday, April 1, allowing the Dutch club nearly a full week of rest before facing Spurs.

This decision ensures that Alkmaar arrive in North London fresh and fully focused on securing a result. In contrast, Tottenham endured a grueling Premier League battle against Bournemouth on Sunday, clawing back from a two-goal deficit to salvage a draw.

The physical and mental toll of that match could play a significant role in determining the outcome of their European campaign.

The scheduling advantage gives AZ a crucial edge as they seek to stun Spurs on their home turf. While Tottenham will rely on the energy of their supporters to fuel a comeback, the fresher legs of the visitors could prove decisive.

With a place in the quarterfinals at stake, Postecoglou’s men must find a way to overcome fatigue, execute their game plan, and ensure that their European ambitions do not come to an early end.