Eerste Divisie Showdown: FC Dordrecht Host Almere City Amidst Contrasting Fortunes and Historical Dominance
As the Eerste Divisie season heats up, Monday, November 3, 2025, presents an intriguing clash at the Matchoholic Stadion in Dordrecht. FC Dordrecht, enjoying a more respectable league position, welcome Almere City, who are languishing in the lower echelons but boast a remarkable historical upper hand in this fixture. The stage is set for a battle of current form versus past dominance, with both sides desperate for points – Dordrecht to solidify their playoff aspirations and Almere City to ignite a much-needed resurgence. Can Dordrecht finally break Almere’s long-standing grip, or will the visitors once again assert their superiority when these two Dutch clubs meet?
Head-to-Head: A Dominant Streak for Almere City
The historical rivalry between FC Dordrecht and Almere City has seen a total of 35 matches played. FC Dordrecht has claimed victory in 14 of these encounters (40.00%), while Almere City FC has edged them with 13 wins (37.14%). Eight matches between the two sides have ended in a draw (22.86%). On average, matches between these two teams are high-scoring affairs, with an average of 3.43 goals per match.
However, the recent history tells a more one-sided story. Almere City FC has proven to be a particularly stubborn opponent for FC Dordrecht, remaining unbeaten in their last 8 meetings, recording 5 wins and 3 draws in that period.
Current Form & Team News: Dordrecht’s Stumble vs. Almere’s Cup Boost
FC Dordrecht
FC Dordrecht currently sit in 8th position in the Eerste Divisie table, having accumulated 19 points from 13 matches (5 wins, 4 draws, 4 losses). They have scored 18 goals and conceded 17 so far this season.
Their recent form, however, has been a mixed bag with a significant recent setback. In their last five outings (reconstructed from available data around the match date):
- 30/10/2025: Willem II 7-0 FC Dordrecht (Loss)
- 21/10/2025: FC Dordrecht 1-2 RKC Waalwijk (Loss)
- Other results in this period are not definitively available, but the heavy loss to Willem II highlights a serious defensive vulnerability that needs immediate addressing.
Key players for Dordrecht include Joshua Pynadath, who has been instrumental in generating shots on target, and Yannick Eduardo, known for creating significant scoring opportunities. After a humbling defeat, manager Michiel de Ham will be looking for a strong reaction, potentially implying tactical adjustments to shore up the defense while maintaining their attacking impetus.
Almere City FC
Almere City FC finds themselves in a precarious 17th spot in the Eerste Divisie, with 11 points from 13 matches (3 wins, 2 draws, 8 losses). They have scored 23 goals but also conceded 23, indicating an open style of play but a struggle to keep clean sheets.
Their last five matches across all competitions show a glimmer of hope amidst their league struggles:
- 28/10/2025: Sparta Nijkerk 0-2 Almere City (Win – KNVB Beker)
- 24/10/2025: Almere City 1-3 Jong AZ Alkmaar (Loss)
- 20/10/2025: Roda JC Kerkrade 2-0 Almere City (Loss)
- 17/10/2025: Almere City 1-1 Cambuur (Draw)
- 10/10/2025: Almere City 2-2 Vitesse (Draw)
The recent KNVB Beker win against Sparta Nijkerk could provide a much-needed confidence boost, despite their overall poor league form (L-L-D-D in their last four league matches with available results). Byron Burgering stands out for Almere City, having created the most big chances for his team.
Regarding team news, specific injuries or suspensions for this exact match in late 2025 are not available through search. However, both teams will undoubtedly be assessing their squads carefully for any fitness concerns or players nearing suspension limits, especially given the congested fixture list common at this stage of the season.
Tactical Preview: A Battle of Resilience and Exploitation
FC Dordrecht will likely be looking to solidify their defense after the recent thrashing, potentially opting for a more cautious approach initially, perhaps a 4-2-3-1 or a compact 4-3-3. Their ability to transition quickly and utilize the creativity of players like Yannick Eduardo will be crucial. The midfield battle will be key; Dordrecht will need to dominate possession and prevent Almere City from finding space between the lines.
Almere City, despite their league position, possess attacking talent and have shown they can score. Their recent cup win might encourage a more direct approach, exploiting Dordrecht’s shaky defense. They might also line up in a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1, aiming to use the wide areas and the creative spark of Byron Burgering to trouble the home side. Given Dordrecht’s defensive frailties, Almere City will aim to capitalize on any set-piece opportunities or counter-attacks.
The match will be played at the Matchoholic Stadion in Dordrecht, providing a home advantage for FC Dordrecht. Early November weather in the Netherlands can be cool and potentially wet, but this is unlikely to severely impact play on a well-maintained professional pitch. Travel fatigue will be minimal for both teams given their domestic schedule.
