Alkmaar to celebrate AZ’s KNVB cup victory on Tuesday

Thousands of AZ supporters poured into the streets and gathered around the AFAS Stadion late Sunday after the club’s 5-1 demolition of NEC in the Dutch Cup final, turning Alkmaar into a scene of fireworks, flares, and chants that lasted deep into the night. The official celebration is planned for Tuesday in Alkmaar.

Fans wearing AZ scarves and waving flags sang and danced as the squad arrived shortly before midnight, joining the celebrations from a balcony. Chants of “Parrott on fire” rang out in honor of Irish striker Troy Parrott, while others lit flares and set off fireworks in a spontaneous celebration following the long-awaited trophy. The victory ended a 13-year wait for a major trophy and ensured AZ's direct qualification for the UEFA Europa League.

“You build up so much excitement for this final, and then you lose like that. It hurts so bad," 18-year-old NEC supporter Kirsten told de Gelderlander in tears. “Last time against Feyenoord it was a final full of hope. This season, we really felt like we could win it. And then it ends 5-1… That just shouldn’t happen. I really need time to get over this loss.” Another fan said, “This just hurts. Losing a game like that in a season like this…”

AZ's general director, Merijn Zeeman, emphasized the significance of that achievement. “That is very valuable. Direct placement, strong opponents, and at least eight European matches. That also has appeal for players; it is a stimulus for young players, and financially, it is a boost. In every respect, very good for AZ,” he said.

Director of football Max Huiberts, who is stepping down after 11 seasons, reflected on both the triumph and past near-misses. He pointed to the 2019-2020 season, when the competition was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with AZ leveling on points with Ajax and no champion declared by the KNVB. “Because I am almost certain we would have won it. We were simply in very good form,” he said.