AZ Alkmaar’s title defence ends in Soccer Sevens semi-finals

AZ Alkmaar’s defence of the HKFC Soccer Sevens Cup ended in the semi-finals after another impressive tournament in Hong Kong.

The Dutch side began their campaign with a hard-fought 1–1 draw against HKFC Captain’s Select. They responded with a controlled 2–0 victory over the Hong Kong, China Representative Team before defeating West Ham United 1–0 to finish top of Group A with seven points.

AZ faced Larne in an entertaining Cup quarter-final. The defending champions were pushed throughout the contest but held on for a narrow 3–2 victory to reach the last four.

Their title defence ended against Brighton & Hove Albion in the semi-finals. AZ took the lead, but Brighton fought back to win 2–1 and avenge their defeat to the Dutch club in the 2025 final.

Although AZ were unable to retain the trophy, they again demonstrated their technical quality and composure in the fast-paced seven-a-side format. Their only defeat came against the eventual champions, completing a respectable run to the final four.

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Results

Group stage
AZ Alkmaar 1–1 HKFC Captain’s Select
AZ Alkmaar 2–0 Hong Kong, China Representative Team
West Ham United 0–1 AZ Alkmaar

Cup quarter-final
AZ Alkmaar 3–2 Larne

Cup semi-final
AZ Alkmaar 1–2 Brighton & Hove Albion

Tournament record: Played 5, Won 3, Drawn 1, Lost 1
Goals scored: 8
Goals conceded: 5
Final position: Cup semi-finalists