The match between the underdog and the Eerste Divisie leader has every chance of being a high-scoring affair. Helmond is in 16th place with 33 points and a weak attack (37 goals in 31 matches), but the team is capable of putting up a fight even against the favorites. In their last five matches, the hosts have scored in three, including a 1-0 win against Almere City, and have only left the field goalless once. Helmond's problem is their defense: they have conceded 55 goals, with their opponents scoring at least twice in four of their last five matches.
Kambuur comfortably leads the league with 67 points and a powerful attack (62 goals in 30 matches). The team has scored in every match for 12 consecutive matches, with the total over 2.5 goals in three of the last five matches. However, the visitors' defense isn't flawless: even modest Oss managed to upset the leaders (1-2), while Roda earned a 1-1 draw. Kambuur's away record also favors goals—six of their last 10 away matches have ended in goals.
The teams drew 0-0 in the first half, but the situation is different now: Helmond needs points to save their season, while Kambuur is fighting for the championship. The visitors will press from the start, which will inevitably create openings for the hosts' counterattacks, who are adept at using set pieces and quick attacks.
