Vitesse vs AEK Athens FC

The match was played at a typically measured pre-season tempo, with head coach Matías Almeyda using the fixture to give minutes to a mix of established first-team players and new arrivals. AEK had beaten De Graafschap 2-1 three days earlier on 12 July, while Vitesse were continuing their own build-up to the new Eredivisie season.

AEK's new signing Christos Alexiou — the Greek U21 international defender who joined on a season-long loan from Inter Milan on 8 July — featured in the contest, as did fellow recent acquisition Kaan Kairinen, the Finland international midfielder signed from Sparta Prague on 7 July.

Vitesse made the only substitution of the evening in the 22nd minute, with Xiamaro Thenu replacing Nino Zonneveld. The hosts' Balázs Varga was booked in the 39th minute, one of three yellow cards shown across the 90 minutes.

In a game of this nature, a single moment rarely decides the outcome. AEK created the clearer openings in the second half — Razvan Marin and Hakim Sahabo combined well, and the Romanian midfielder's delivery caused problems from set pieces — but the final touch continually eluded the visitors. Vitesse goalkeeper Balamotis, whose name featured prominently in the latter stages, was called upon to make a low save from a corner in the 72nd minute and gathered crosses under pressure as AEK pushed for a winner.

Razvan Marin (AEK Athens) — The Romanian international dictated play from midfield, linking with Sahabo and Niclas Eliasson. His set-piece delivery was AEK's most reliable route to goal.

Christos Alexiou (AEK Athens) — Making his second appearance since joining from Inter Milan, the young Greek defender looked composed in possession and comfortable stepping into midfield.

Balamotis (Vitesse) — The Vitesse goalkeeper made several solid interventions in the second half, including a sharp low save from a corner, and commanded his area well from crosses.

Xiamaro Thenu (Vitesse) — Introduced in the 22nd minute, the Dutch winger provided energy on the flank and was involved in Vitesse's best attacking moments.

The 0-0 scoreline reflects the early-season nature of the fixture. Pre-season friendlies at this stage typically produce low xG figures as sides prioritise fitness over attacking intensity. AEK's 2-1 win over De Graafschap on 12 July suggests they carry more match sharpness, having played one game more, but the lack of goals here also speaks to the defensive solidity both sides showed. The three yellow cards — a relatively high number for a friendly — indicate competitive edge despite the scoreless draw.

AEK Athens continue their Netherlands pre-season tour unbeaten, following the 2-1 win over De Graafschap. They face another friendly fixture on 18 July — their final warm-up match before the 2026-27 Greek Super League season, which they enter as defending champions. Vitesse, rebuilding after a turbulent period, are preparing for the 2026-27 Eredivisie season, which is scheduled to begin in early August.

A low-key but useful workout for both sides. AEK looked marginally sharper after their extra game, while Vitesse will take positives from a disciplined defensive display. Neither side will read much into the result, but the fitness minutes will prove valuable as the season approaches.