Eredivisie: AZ Alkmaar 1 NAC Breda 1

AZ Alkmaar suffered a blow in their bid to secure a Europa League playoff place following a 1-1 draw at home to NAC Breda in the Eredivisie on Friday.

Swedish midfielder Rasmus Elm put AZ ahead from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute at the Alkmaarderhout Stadium.

But Dutchman Donny Gort leveled for visitors Breda just before the hour mark, also with a penalty.

Neither side were able to find a winner in the final 30 minutes.

The draw leaves AZ fourth, five points behind Ajax, who occupy the automatic Europa League qualification berth.

The Amsterdam outfit can increase the gap to eight points with victory at home to Groningen on Saturday.

NAC are 10th.