The 2008-09 campaign delivered an historic Eredivisie title for AZ Alkmaar as the Cheeseheads, under Louis van Gaal, surged to the championship for the first time in 28 years. Leading the charge was the clinical Mounir El Hamdaoui, whose 23 goals won him the Dutch Footballer of the Year award. The team's success was built on a pragmatic tactical shift and a sensational 28-match unbeaten run. It was a landmark triumph that broke the 'Big Three' domination and secured the club's return to the UEFA Champions League.