Matej Sin Scores Stunning Volley for AZ Alkmaar in UEFA Conference League Quarterfinal
Czech Republic international Matej Sin delivered a moment of individual brilliance for AZ Alkmaar in their UEFA Conference League quarterfinal second leg against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday, April 16, 2026, scoring a stunning volley that briefly sparked hope for a comeback. Despite his effort, Alkmaar’s European journey ended with a 2-2 home draw, as they were eliminated 5-2 on aggregate following a 3-0 first-leg defeat in Donetsk.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, making his first Conference League start of the season due to Alkmaar resting regulars ahead of the Dutch Cup final, seized his opportunity in the 80th minute. After a headed pass from teammate Kovács found him in the penalty area, Sin executed a first-time volley “nohejbalově” (volleyball-style) that flew past the goalkeeper and into the far corner of the net. The goal marked Sin’s first in the Conference League campaign and his third competitive goal of the season for the Eredivisie side.
Shakhtar Donetsk had taken the lead earlier in the second half through Alisson’s counter-attacking finish in the 58th minute. AZ Alkmaar responded when Jensen equalized from a direct free-kick approximately 15 minutes later. Sin’s goal restored parity at 2-2, but the joy was short-lived as Meirelles scored for the Ukrainian visitors shortly afterward to reclaim the lead. The final 2-2 result meant Shakhtar advanced 5-2 on aggregate to the Conference League semifinals.
Sin’s performance highlighted his growing importance to the Alkmaar squad since joining from Czech side Baník Ostrava in August 2025. The product of Ostrava’s youth system, who began his senior career with Baník before moving to the Netherlands, has established himself as a versatile midfielder capable of playing in attacking central or wide positions. His technical ability was on full display with the volley, a technique requiring exceptional timing and coordination.
Despite the elimination, Sin’s goal provided a positive note for the Czech national team setup ahead of upcoming international fixtures. The young midfielder has represented Czech Republic at various youth levels and earned his first senior call-up in recent months. His goal against a Shakhtar side featuring several Brazilian internationals demonstrated his ability to perform against high-quality opposition in European competition.
AZ Alkmaar now shifts focus to the Dutch Cup final against NEC Nijmegen, where they will aim to secure silverware after their European exit. For Shakhtar Donetsk, the victory sets up a Conference League semifinal clash, continuing their impressive run in the competition despite the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian clubs due to the conflict in their homeland.
As the 2025/26 UEFA Conference League progresses, Sin’s moment of brilliance will be remembered as one of the individual highlights of the quarterfinal stage. His development continues to be tracked closely by Czech football enthusiasts eager to see the next generation of talent emerge from the country’s renowned youth development system.
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