AZ Alkmaar have ended a 13-year wait for Dutch Cup glory, defeating NEC Nijmegen 2-1 in the KNVB Cup final at De Kuip stadium in Rotterdam. The victory, secured on April 22, 2026, marked a historic moment for the Eredivisie side, with Brazilian winger Weslley Patati playing a pivotal role in the triumph. Patati, who joined AZ from Maccabi Tel Aviv in January 2025, started the match and contributed to the build-up of the opening goal, showcasing the impact that has made him a standout performer since his arrival in the Netherlands.
The final, held at Feyenoord’s iconic home ground, drew a passionate crowd as AZ sought to claim their first major trophy since winning the Eredivisie in 2009. NEC, aiming for their first cup win since 1983, started brightly and took the lead through a well-worked team goal in the 23rd minute. Though, AZ responded with resilience, equalizing just before halftime through a header from their captain, which set the stage for a tense second half.
Patati’s influence grew after the break, as he began to dictate play down the left flank with his trademark pace, and dribbling. His ability to drive at defenders and create space opened up opportunities for his teammates, culminating in the decisive goal in the 78th minute. A swift counterattack saw Patati receive the ball near the halfway line, evade two challenges, and deliver a precise cross that was finished calmly by the striker to put AZ ahead for the first time in the match.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the AZ players and supporters, many of whom had endured over a decade of near-misses in domestic cup competitions. Patati’s contribution was widely acknowledged in post-match interviews, with teammates praising his work rate and composure under pressure. Reflecting on the victory, the Brazilian winger emphasized the collective effort required to finish the drought, stating that the win belonged to the entire squad and staff who had maintained belief throughout the season.
This triumph represents a significant milestone in Patati’s European career, which began with a successful spell in Israel where he won both the league and cup double with Maccabi Tel Aviv during the 2024-25 season. His move to AZ was viewed as a step up in competition, and his immediate impact has validated that decision, with the winger becoming a fan favorite for his energetic displays and commitment to the team’s attacking philosophy.
For AZ Alkmaar, the cup win provides a much-needed boost as they push for a top-four finish in the Eredivisie and qualification for European competition next season. The victory as well adds momentum ahead of the final stretch of the league campaign, where every point is crucial in the tight race for continental spots. Manager Maarten Martens, who has overseen a period of transition and rebuilding, will notice this trophy as validation of his methods and the progress made since taking charge.
Looking ahead, AZ will face FC Utrecht in their next Eredivisie fixture on April 26, 2026, as they aim to build on the confidence gained from the cup success. Patati is expected to start again, continuing his adaptation to Dutch football whereas aiming to add more goals and assists to his growing tally for the club. The winger has already recorded two goals and three assists in 28 appearances across all competitions since joining, numbers that reflect his increasing influence in the team.
The KNVB Cup final victory will be remembered as a turning point for AZ Alkmaar, ending a lengthy trophy drought and signaling their return to competitiveness in Dutch football’s elite competitions. For Weslley Patati, it marks another chapter in a rapid rise that has seen him progress from youth football in Brazil to becoming a key contributor in one of Europe’s respected leagues, all before turning 23 years old.
As the celebrations continue in Alkmaar and among the Brazilian expatriate community in the Netherlands, the focus now shifts to maintaining this momentum in the league. With the Dutch Cup secured, AZ can approach their remaining matches with renewed purpose, knowing they have the capability to win considerable games when it matters most.
For ongoing updates on AZ Alkmaar’s season and Weslley Patati’s development, fans are encouraged to follow the club’s official channels and trusted sports news sources. Share your thoughts on this historic victory in the comments below, and stay tuned for more coverage as the Eredivisie season reaches its climax.
