Cambuur vs Utrecht

Souren's 10th-minute opener set the tone. By scoring early, Cambuur could sit in a compact shape and hit Utrecht on the transition — a blueprint that suits Plat's high-energy approach. Utrecht lacked the incision to break down a well-organised backline, and Jansen's reliability in goal meant the visitors never found a route back.

Nicky Souren (Cambuur) — Took his chance with composure and has now scored three times in pre-season. His midfield energy was central to Cambuur's press.

Thijs Jansen (Cambuur) — Made several sharp saves, particularly to deny Cathline and Alarcón. The goalkeeper's distribution also started the move that led to the goal.

Yoann Cathline (Utrecht) — Utrecht's most threatening attacker, consistently dangerous in one-on-one situations against right-back Wiebe Kooistra, but lacked a finishing touch.

Lucas Jetten (Cambuur) — Provided the assist with a well-weighted through ball and was solid defensively at left-back.

Player of the match: Thijs Jansen (Cambuur)

The provider recorded only one goal on 45 minutes (Souren) and a second Utrecht goal on 67 minutes (Stepanov), but official club sources confirm that two separate 90-minute matches were played on the day. This fixture — the first match — finished 1-0 to Cambuur, with Souren scoring in the 10th minute. The second match, featuring largely reserve and Under-21 players, ended 0-1 to Utrecht via an A. Stepanov strike in the 67th minute. The provider's data merged events from both matches into a single timeline.

Cambuur made no substitutions in the first match, while Utrecht used three changes in the 75th minute. No cards were issued across either match.

For Cambuur, this was a significant confidence boost ahead of their Eredivisie return. They open the season at home against Excelsior Rotterdam on 7 August. The result suggests Plat's squad is physically ready for the step up, even if further reinforcements are expected.

Utrecht, who finished sixth in the Eredivisie last season, continue their pre-season build-up under head coach Anthony Correia. They face another friendly before the competitive season begins.

A competitive and useful workout for both sides. Cambuur's early goal and defensive solidity — anchored by Jansen — gave them a deserved win, but the broader takeaway is that Plat's side is adapting well to Eredivisie intensity. Utrecht will want sharper finishing in their remaining friendlies, but the fitness levels were evident.