Heracles vs NEC Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews

The weekend opener in the Eredivisie sees two sides who are on the verge of the battle for survival. These two are level on 15 points, sitting 11th and 12th in the standings respectively. They’re both just two points above the relegation play-off spots, while they’re just four points above the bottom side in the table. They’re both a couple of places from danger, but a loss on Friday night could cause some panic.

NEC were boosted by a win last weekend, as they saw off Twente 3-2 at home. That win didn’t just help their points haul, it also improved their poor scoring ratio. They’re going to need to keep that up in order to survive in the Eredivisie. They’ll also have to look to improve their away record, which has seen them win just once on their travels this season. Their last result on the road was a 5-0 hammering by Ajax, but this is an easier task.

The visitors do have a chance to boost that away record, as Heracles have only won once in their last five here. They’re conceding far too many goals, letting in 1.64 per game on average. It’s easy to see why the Heraclieden are so close to the bottom when you look at their record at the back. They’re yet to keep a home clean sheet, having conceded in every match at the Polman Stadion this term. With that record, it’s hardly surprising that 79% of their games have seen both sides find the net.

Can NEC become the latest in a long line of sides who have scored against Heracles this season? They have been improving in front of goal, so they’ve got a chance. The away side have now found the net in six of their last seven games in the Eredivisie. That’s certainly a step forward, and it’s something the home side’s defence needs to be worried about.

NEC’s problem so far isn’t with their finishing; they just don’t create enough chances. On average they get around seven shots per game away from home, with just two of those on target. Luckily for them, they’re up against a Heracles side who concede a high number of shots. They give away just shy of 16 shots per game, with 10% of those hitting the back of the net. The visitors tend to create their chances with through balls, and that’s an area where the hosts really struggle. Of the 23 goals they’ve conceded so far, 20 have come from open play.

The away side should get chances here, and Heracles don’t have a great record of keeping sides out. The hosts have seen both sides score in their last seven league matches, and we’re backing a repeat this weekend. BTTS in this clash is priced at 7/10 with bet365.