Clasie explains row with Zerrouki: 'What a little child'

AZ captain Clasie criticized Twente midfielder Zerrouki for taunting after the match, which sparked a confrontation between the teams.

A post-match altercation erupted between AZ and FC Twente after their Eredivisie clash, with AZ captain Jordy Clasie taking issue with Twente midfielder Ramiz Zerrouki's behavior. Speaking to ESPN, Clasie said of Zerrouki: "What a little child. If you've won, you take the win. But don't celebrate in our faces and shout things at our players. I saw that happen. Just celebrate with your supporters and don't act like a little kid around us."

AZ manager Leeroy Echteld acknowledged fault on both sides, calling the conduct "childish" and urging players to "be a man" rather than trying to undermine opponents with words. The incident overshadowed Twente's 2-1 victory, secured by two late goals. Clasie lamented the result as unnecessary, pointing to a long ball that proved decisive. AZ also saw invaller Ayoub Oufkir receive a yellow card—his fourth of the season—ruling him out of next week's clash against Ajax.