AZ can build repeated waves through Kwakman and the wide receivers, while Groningen's longer rest gives them energy to challenge the first pass. The last touch matters as much as the volume of deliveries. Celta can release Carreira beyond Levante's pressure, but Levante have their own forward outlet through Romero and Thiago. Both matches hinge on whether a first opening is followed by another clean finish.
AZ generated heavy shot counts against Ajax and Juventus but completed few of those attacks. Groningen created goal-bound chances against Sparta and have had a fuller recovery; their newer club squad report carries more weight than the old Van der Laan absence flag. Groningen can press the build and reach Willumsson or a wide runner before AZ settle into a second wave. I'm siding with Groningen to stay close through that exchange.
Celta's Carreira route can test Levante's replacement left back, while Levante's pressure can release Romero or Thiago into the space behind Celta's wingbacks. Iglesias is absent from Celta's current squad, and Giráldez has discussed managing Aspas's minutes; Levante have had more preparation time. Celta's recent entries have brought less goalward finishing than their territory suggests, while Levante have completed crosses and second balls in recent matches. That points me toward Levante.
