Telstar vs Groningen – News and Probable Lineups

On Saturday, Telstar will host Groningen, aiming for a win that could significantly impact their fight for survival in the Dutch top division.

Currently, Telstar is positioned 14th in the Eredivisie standings, while Groningen holds 10th place and remains in contention for European playoff spots.

Match overview

Following their playoff promotion last season, many doubted Telstar’s ability to transition from a seventh-placed finish in the Eerste Divisie to maintaining their top-flight status.

Nevertheless, securing 10 points from their last six outings has propelled Anthony Correia’s team four points above the relegation zone with only six matches left to play.

While they remain just outside the relegation playoff spot based on goal difference, a win in this fixture—combined with their favorable goal difference—could be crucial come season’s end.

In addition to impressive wins of 3-0 and 4-1 against NAC Breda and Fortuna Sittard respectively, Telstar achieved a surprising 3-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven just before the international break.

This was not only their third win at the BUKO Stadion during the 2025-26 season but also marked their second consecutive triumph on home turf.

Next, the White Lions face Groningen, who sensationally broke a six-match losing streak with an unbeaten three-match run just before the international break.

This positive run commenced with a 3-1 win against Ajax, and although they settled for a 1-1 draw at PEC Zwolle, Groningen showcased one of their standout performances shortly after.

Their dominant display against AZ Alkmaar resulted in a 3-0 victory, bringing them within four points of their sixth-placed rivals.

Though their upcoming fixtures against Feyenoord and NEC Nijmegen present challenges, coach Dick Lukkien is likely feeling hopeful about the possibility of securing a European playoff spot.

However, Groningen heads into the match at the BUKO Stadion with a record of not winning any of their last four away games.

Team News

Kay Tejan has positioned himself for a possible return to the Telstar starting XI following his goal against PSV in their recent match.

Soufiane Hetli may be the one to miss out, depending on whether Correia chooses a four-man or five-man midfield setup.

Tyrese Noslin is also a candidate to come back in at right wing-back, potentially replacing Gerald Alders.

Assuming no fitness concerns arise, Lukkien is likely to field the same Groningen side that triumphed against AZ.

Forward Thom van Bergen netted in his last game, making it four consecutive matches with a goal, and he is expected to partner David van der Werff in attack.

Stije Resink and Etienne Vaessen continue to be unavailable due to injury.

Telstar probable starting XI:

Koeman; Nwankwo, Koswal, Bakker; Noslin, Owusu, Hatenboer, Brouwer, Hardeveld; Tejan, Van Duijn

Groningen probable starting XI:

Jurjus; Rente, Blokzijl, Janse, Peersman; Taha, De Jonge, Land, Schreuders; Van Bergen, Van der Werff

Despite the contrasting league positions, it’s important to acknowledge that Telstar has gained momentum in recent weeks. While overcoming another in-form side may be a challenge, there is a possibility that one of the underdogs could claim a point in this encounter.