Heerenveen close on playoff spot after seeing off AZ Alkmaar

Heerenveen are edging closer to a European playoff berth after coming from behind to beat AZ Alkmaar.

AZ took the lead within 60 seconds when Steven Berghuis slotted past keeper Kristoffer Nordfeldt.

The Super Frisians equalised in the second minute of first-half injury time when Simon Thern diverted Joey van der Berg's cross beyond the reach of Esteban Alvarado.

Heerenveen then took the lead on 57 minutes when Pele van Aanholt teed up Luciano Slagveer to score.

AZ hit back within a minute when Berghuis scored his second of the game to restore parity.

However, the home side went in front with 14 minutes remaining thanks to Sam Larsson's goal before added a second to seal victory soon after.

Van der Berg then added a fifth goal late on as the hosts cruised to three points.

The result sees Heerenveen draw level with sixth-placed PEC Zwolle and move within five of Alkmaar in fifth.