NAC Breda fell 0‑2 to FC Eindhoven on July 8 2026

NAC Breda took to the well‑maintained main pitch of Rood‑Wit in Sint‑Willebrord and dropped a 0‑2 defeat to FC Eindhoven in their third pre‑season friendly. The side trailed 0‑2 at halftime and could not recover, despite several chances from striker Paul Gladon.

How did the match unfold?

Gladon tried to find the net early, but FC Eindhoven’s goalkeeper kept him at bay. A potential Gladon goal just before the break was ruled offside. FC Eindhoven capitalised on defensive lapses, with Thijs Muller (0‑1) and Owen Renfrum (0‑2) scoring before the interval. In the second half NAC kept pressing, with contributions from Brahim Ghalidi and academy talents, yet the score stayed unchanged.

Who was missing for NAC Breda?

Seven players were absent: Leo Greiml, Charles‑Andreas Brym, Boyd Lucassen, Raul Paula, Max Balard, Moussa Soumano and Thomas Goos. Greiml trained largely with the squad, Brym and Goos have been completing individual programmes since Monday, while Balard was held out as a precaution. Their absence left gaps, especially in defence.

What does this mean for the preparation?

Coach Carl Hoefkens introduced youth players in the second half, highlighting the academy focus. The 0‑2 loss shows the defence still needs work, with substitute keeper Roy Kortsmit making several saves. The next friendly is set for Wednesday July 15 in Burgh‑Haamstede against top amateur side HSV Hoek, a chance to apply lessons learned and sharpen the attack.

Who started the match?

Line‑ups were: first half – Bielica, Valerius, Oldrup Jensen, Hillen, Candelaria, Sowah, Nassoh, Holtby, Ghalidi, Reulen and Gladon. Second half – Bielica, Valerius, Oldrup Jensen, Hillen, Brouwers, Sowah, Nassoh, Aachir, Ghalidi, Gladon and Versluis. Injuries included Kortsmit, Erat, Honkoop, Chiza, Van Aarst, Nazih, Ikpia and Van Ooijen.

What’s next on the agenda?

After this defeat NAC Breda turns its attention to the clash with HSV Hoek, a top amateur team playing at FC De Westhoek’s sports park. The squad hopes the attack will click and defensive frailties be ironed out before the Eredivisie season begins.