Excelsior Rotterdam travels to Tilburg on September 5, 2026 for an Eredivisie match against Willem II. The fixture at the Koning Willem II Stadion pits two teams with contrasting form against each other, according to data from www.thescore.com.
Excelsior currently sits ninth in the league table with six points from three matches. They have a goal difference of +4, having scored seven and conceded three. Marinus Dijkhuizen's side trails league leaders AZ Alkmaar by six points.
What is Excelsior's form heading into the match?
The Rotterdam-based club enters the match with an inconsistent W-L-W run. Their statistics paint a mixed picture. In attack, the team averages 2.33 goals per game, placing them joint seventh in the Eredivisie. They take relatively few shots, however, with nine attempts per match ranking them twelfth. Their accuracy is better: 5.33 shots on target per game is good for ninth place.
Their build-up play has room for improvement. Excelsior averages 286.33 passes per game, the second-lowest tally in the league. Their completed passes (204.33) is also low. A standout figure is the high number of long balls: 69.67 per match, making them the league leaders in this category. This points to a direct style of play. The defense is active with 13.67 tackle attempts per game, 8.33 of which are successful.
Who are Excelsior's key players?
In attack, the Rotterdammers rely heavily on the productivity of a few key figures. Striker Devin Haen has scored two goals so far without an assist. His directness in front of goal is a major asset. In midfield, Irakli Yegoian is crucial. The midfielder has registered one goal and two assists. His creativity and delivery are essential for the attacking play.
Both players have also received yellow cards, indicating a combative but sometimes over-eager approach. The team as a whole commits an average of 10.33 fouls per game, the fifth-highest figure in the league. Discipline could be a point of focus for an away match.
What does the opponent Willem II represent?
Willem II hosts Excelsior from a difficult position. The Tilburg side is fifteenth in the standings with just one point from three games. Their recent form is concerning: L-L-D. They are yet to win a league match this season. For Excelsior, currently in ninth place, this is an opportunity to take points against a direct rival in the lower half of the table.
The away trip to Tilburg is an important test for the squad's resilience. The full season schedule can be found on our fixtures page. The current team roster is always available via the squad overview.
Where can Excelsior win the match?
The statistics point to clear strengths and weaknesses. The high number of long balls and low passing percentage suggest Excelsior will not seek to control midfield possession. Instead, they will likely look to move the ball quickly to their forwards. Their effectiveness in front of goal (2.33 goals per game) is a strength they must exploit against a Willem II side likely low on confidence.
The defense must be alert to counter-attacks. With a +4 goal difference and only three goals conceded, Excelsior has shown a solid defensive foundation. Maintaining that organization away from home is key. The next fixture, away to Willem II on September 5, offers a concrete chance to consolidate or even improve their ninth-place position. Fans can follow the live standings on our standings page.
