AZ Alkmaar returned to winning ways at the AFAS Stadion, clinching a gritty 2-1 victory over Telstar in front of their home crowd on Sunday afternoon. After a turbulent run of form and a challenging European outing, the hosts produced a disciplined performance, capitalizing on key moments to secure all three points against a spirited Telstar side.

The action ignited early when AZ Alkmaar seized control through Mexx Meerdink. In the 15th minute, Meerdink showed composure from the spot, converting a penalty to give the hosts the lead after Telstar’s Neville Ogidi Nwankwo was booked moments earlier for a reckless challenge inside the box. The breakthrough ignited the Alkmaar attack, with Meerdink continuing to pose problems for Telstar’s defense throughout the first half.

As halftime approached, AZ doubled their advantage. In first-half stoppage time, Matej Sin found space at the edge of the box and lashed home a low drive past Telstar keeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro, capping off a period of sustained pressure and sending the home fans into celebration. Sin’s influence was felt across the midfield, combining vision and work-rate with incisive attacking play.

Telstar emerged from the break determined to claw their way back. Their efforts paid off in the 61st minute, when Tyrese Noslin finished smartly from close range after an intelligent assist from Kay Tejan, halving the deficit and breathing life into the contest. Noslin's directness and Tejan's creativity troubled AZ’s back line, forcing a more conservative approach from the hosts in the final half hour.

The closing stages saw both sides committed but cautious, with the referee’s book filling quickly. AZ’s Sin, Goes, and Kasius all picked up yellow cards as Telstar pressed, while Ritmeester van de Kamp was cautioned in stoppage time for the visitors. Alkmaar manager Pascal Jansen made tactical substitutions to shore up the midfield and defense, with Sin and Meerdink making way late on after tireless shifts.

Telstar pushed forward in the dying minutes, but AZ’s defense held firm, anchored by Wouter Goes and Denso Kasius. Substitute Mateo Chávez Garcia provided fresh legs, helping Alkmaar see out the win as the clock ticked past 90.

This result strengthens AZ Alkmaar’s position in the top half of the Eredivisie table, a much-needed boost following recent domestic and European setbacks. For Telstar, who continue to adjust to the demands of top-flight football, the narrow defeat highlights both their resilience and the clinical edge they must sharpen to climb further from the relegation zone.

AZ’s blend of youthful talent and steely determination proved decisive, with Meerdink and Sin the standout performers on a rewarding afternoon in Alkmaar. The victory restores momentum for the hosts, while Telstar depart with lessons learned and hope for the weeks ahead.