PSV can write history tonight. The club can return to a European quarter-final for the first time in eleven years. Then you first have to settle with FC Copenhagen. Here’s what you need to know about the Conference League Round of 16 game.
First quarterfinal in eleven years
PSV have not been doing well in Europe in recent years. In 2015-2016, the Eindhoven team reached the eighth finals of the Champions League, where they were eliminated by Atletico Madrid. But otherwise the results were often disappointing.
PSV last played a quarterfinal of a European tournament in 2011. Benfica then proved too strong.
One Million Contest
It is not the large sums of the Champions League, but at least one million euros is at stake today. If PSV makes it to the quarter-finals, it will receive one million euros in any case. On top of that, the broadcasting rights can be added.
If PSV reaches the semi-finals, it will receive at least two million. The number two in the Conference League gets three million. The winner can add five million.
Away goals not double
Since this season, away goals in a two-match draw no longer count. That is why the four goals against last week can be put into perspective. PSV drew 4-4 in its own Philips Stadium.
In the past, PSV would have been eliminated if a draw was less than 4-4. But now an extension would be played in a 1-1 final score, for example. And that’s what happens when it goes 5-5.
Good general FC Copenhagen
FC Copenhagen is a team not to be underestimated. Last Sunday, the Danish club extended their winning streak in the national competition.
Direct competitor Mydtjilland was defeated 1-0. The only goal came in the 94th minute. The goalscorer, Khouma Babacar, will not be there tonight. He is still suspended. FC Copenhagen is more firmly in the lead thanks to the victory. The lead on number two has grown to five points.
1100 PSV fans
Copenhagen is a touristic city just an hour’s flight from Amsterdam. You can drive there in eight hours by car. This makes this European away game very popular with PSV supporters.
Tonight 1100 supporters will support the people of Eindhoven. In the afternoon they can already go to an Irish pub in the center of the city where the atmosphere will undoubtedly be good. Let’s hope the atmosphere is even better after 90 (or 120) minutes of football.