Disastrous season start for Dutch champions AZ Alkmaar

AZ Alkmaar have lost their first match of the season 3-2 to Heracles Almelo, and had two players sent off in the process.

The Dutch champions, now led by manager Ronald Koeman, conceded an opening goal from Everton after just seven minutes. Willie Overtoom beat keeper Romero for 2-0 shortly after the break and Mark-Jan Fledderus converted a free kick in the 62nd minute for a comfortable 3-0 lead.

AZ did strike back with two goals in one minute. Graziano Pelle made it 3-1 in the 71st minute and Mounir El Hamdaoui netted from close range 30 seconda later.

But instead of scoring an equaliser, AZ couldn’t control themselves and lost both Gill Swerts and Pelle to red cards in the final minutes.

It is the first time since 2000 that a defending Dutch champion loses its opening game.