AZ Alkmaar leads the Eredivisie in clean sheets after the opening matches of the season. The Alkmaar-based club has kept two clean sheets in its first three games, according to statistics published this week by Google.
This defensive solidity is a direct contributor to their perfect start. AZ currently sits first in the Eredivisie with nine points from three wins. The team has scored eight goals and conceded only one, resulting in a +7 goal difference. They hold a two-point lead over pursuer PSV Eindhoven. The next challenge is the home match against GO Ahead Eagles, scheduled for August 29.
With two clean sheets from three matches, AZ Alkmaar stands out clearly from its Eredivisie rivals. Ajax and Excelsior each have one clean sheet, but those clubs have only played two matches. Feyenoord, PEC Zwolle, and SC Heerenveen have each played three games and kept one clean sheet. This highlights the consistency of AZ's defense in the early phase.
The attack is also doing its part, with Jens Hornkamp as the team's current top scorer with two goals. The combination of a tight defense and a productive attack explains the dominant position in the standings. Fans can always follow the current table on our standings page.
The data published by Google places the current performance in a broader historical context. The statistics cover a period of ten Eredivisie seasons, from 2017/2018 through the current 2026/2027 campaign. Additionally, there is extensive data on European football, including participations in the Europa League and the Conference League across various seasons.
The KNVB Cup and the Johan Cruijff Shield are also included in the datasets. For the KNVB Cup, the 2023/2024, 2024/2025, and 2025/2026 seasons are recorded. The 2025/2026 Super Cup is also part of the analysis. This comprehensive overview shows that defensive statistics are tracked and analyzed over a longer term.
A clean sheet is more than just a zero on the scoreboard. It gives the entire team confidence and is often the foundation for success. For a team aiming for the top, as AZ is, these kinds of performances are essential. It saves points and creates a mental advantage.
The players work collectively hard to deny the opponent chances. The two clean sheets in three games are the tangible proof of that successful teamwork. It's an achievement the entire defensive unit, from goalkeeper to striker, can be proud of.
The excellent start, built on defensive solidity, sets the tone for the coming weeks. The home match against third-placed GO Ahead Eagles is the next immediate test. Maintaining this standard is key to holding onto the top spot.
With the confidence emanating from these numbers, AZ Alkmaar can look ahead to the rest of August and September with optimism. The upcoming schedule is always available on our fixtures overview. The focus remains on one game at a time, with a sturdy defense continuing to be the starting point for every attack.
