AZ Alkmaar vs Hapoel Be'er Sheva

AZ Alkmaar host Hapoel Beer Sheva at AFAS Stadion in matchday two of the Europa League league phase, the first-ever competitive meeting between these clubs. AZ sit top of the Eredivisie, unbeaten domestically this season, while Hapoel Beer Sheva are fourth in Israel's top flight after missing out on Champions League qualification. The match has drawn extra scrutiny too, with Alkmaar's mayor labeling it high-risk and away fans barred from the stadium. Form has told contrasting stories lately. AZ have won three of their last five across competitions, highlighted by a 5-2 rout of Go Ahead Eagles, but opened their European campaign with a 1-0 loss to Sunderland. Hapoel Beer Sheva, fresh off a Champions League playoff exit to Sabah, drew 0-0 at home with Dinamo Zagreb in their Europa League opener. Ro-Zangelo Daal leads AZ's scoring with four goals, with Peer Koopmeiners impressing too, while Eliel Peretz carries Hapoel's attacking threat. Our prediction: 2-1