Prediction Helmond Sport vs PEC Zwolle 2025/2026 season – Betting Tips for the KNVB Beker on 28/10/2025

Build-up and context

The SolarUnie Stadion will host a classic cup clash on 28 October as Helmond Sport welcome PEC Zwolle in the first round of the KNVB Beker. With the stadium tucked into Sportpark De Braak and a modest 4,100 capacity, this fixture promises an intimate, intense atmosphere — a perfect setting for cup drama. Referee Martin van den Kerkhof will take charge as the two Dutch sides meet with contrasting recent narratives: Helmond arriving off a mix of wins and setbacks, PEC Zwolle carrying a run of tight draws and stinging defeats.

Recent form and what it tells us

Helmond Sport have shown they can both score and concede in equal measure. Their latest run reads two wins, two defeats and a pattern of fluctuating momentum. In their most recent match on 24 October, Helmond fell 1-2 to FC Dordrecht despite leading at half-time, with Pol Llonch singled out as Helmond’s standout performer in that game. Just before that they produced a 4-2 victory over Jong AZ and edged Almere City 2-1 earlier in October, demonstrating an attacking edge at home that can trouble opponents in cup ties.

PEC Zwolle’s pattern is different but telling: a cluster of 2-2 stalemates — notably against NEC Nijmegen (2-2 on 25 October) and NAC Breda — underline a team that can find the net but also regularly concedes. Their defensive fragility was exposed in a heavy 0-4 loss to PSV, yet they managed to salvage draws in the Eredivisie with grit. Koen Kostons was PEC’s best performer in their most recent draw, highlighting a forward who can influence the scoreline in tight contests.

Head-to-head history adds a layer: the most recent meeting in 2023 ended 3-2 in PEC’s favor, a high-scoring encounter that suggests neither side shies away from open play when the stakes are high.

Tactical outlook and cup edge

Cup football often favours teams that can combine ambition with resilience. Helmond’s home attacking form, with multiple multi-goal outings, will encourage them to press for early control. PEC Zwolle, used to a higher level of competition and capable of carving out goals even in difficult runs, will look to exploit spaces left behind when they push forward. Expect both teams to commit men in the final third at different phases, producing chances at both ends.

Betting suggestion: Goal market — Both Teams to Score (Yes). Given Helmond’s recent home matches where they both scored and conceded, and PEC Zwolle’s sequence of 2-2 draws and goals in several outings, the data points to a high likelihood of goals from both sides in this cup tie.