“AZ” Jackson vs. AZ Alkmaar in crucial Conference League finale

The match

AZ Alkmaar vs. Jagiellonia Białystok

  • Competition: UEFA Conference League (League Phase – Matchday 6)
  • Date: Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025
  • Kickoff: 2 p.m. CST
  • Venue: AFAS Stadion (Alkmaar, Netherlands)

How to watch in Minnesota

This match will be streamed live on Paramount+.

As this is the final matchday of the League Phase, multiple games kick off simultaneously. Paramount+ often runs a “Golazo Show” whip-around show if you want to track all the goals, but you can select this specific match feed to watch Aziel Jackson for the full 90 minutes.

The significance

It’s “AZ” vs. AZ!

Aside from the incredible nominative coincidence, this is a massive game for both clubs. We have reached the final matchday of the Conference League “League Phase,” and the table is incredibly tight.

  • The Stakes: Jagiellonia currently sits 18th in the table, while AZ Alkmaar is 13th. Both teams are virtually guaranteed a spot in the knockout playoff round (places 9–24), but a win today could catapult the victor into the Top 8, earning them a bye directly to the Round of 16.
  • Form: Jagiellonia has been a surprise package in Europe this year, proving difficult to beat on the road. They need a result here to ensure a seeded position in the playoff draw at the very least.

The Loon in focus: Aziel Jackson

  • MNUFC Tenure: 2021–2022 (Homegrown)
  • Club: Jagiellonia Białystok (Poland)
  • Role: Attacking Midfielder / Winger

It has been a whirlwind 2025 for Aziel Jackson. After starting the year with the Columbus Crew, he secured a summer transfer to the Polish champions, Jagiellonia Białystok, in July. Since arriving in Poland, “AZ” has settled in quickly, using his technical dribbling and creativity to unlock stubborn defenses in the Ekstraklasa.

This is the exact type of stage Jackson dreamed of when he left MLS for Europe. He has featured regularly in their Conference League campaign, providing a spark off the bench or starting in the #10 role. Today, playing in the Netherlands against a historic Dutch side like AZ Alkmaar, he has the perfect platform to showcase his talent to a wider European audience.

Prediction

AZ Alkmaar is tough to beat at home, but Jagiellonia has played with no fear throughout this tournament. Jackson’s ability to drive the ball in transition will be vital. Expect a high-scoring thriller.

  • 2-2 Draw, with Jackson involved in the build-up for the equalizer.