PSV finally managed to reach the group stage of the Champions League. In its own Philips Stadium, it booked a resounding victory over Rangers FC. The Scots were rolled 5-1. PSV is allowed to add many millions due to the big win. On Thursday, the draw will indicate which European top clubs will come to Eindhoven.
Discharge, relief and above all a lot of joy. After thirty unfamiliar minutes, PSV came loose in its own Philips Stadium. There seemed to be tension in the team. Finally, because after two failed attempts in the play-offs, it really had to happen for the people of Eindhoven this year.
Ismael Saibari should have given the Eindhoven formation the lead after 32 minutes. He had an imposed chance around the penalty spot but ran into Jack Butland. But just as PSV learned from previous mistakes in the play-offs on Wednesday evening, the 22-year-old midfielder did the same.
Liberating opening goal
Less than three minutes after his miss, Saibari hit the mark. A measured cross from Joey Veerman was headed in by the PSV Moroccan footballer. A liberating hit because Rangers completely lost it afterwards.
PSV has never been ahead for more than three minutes in three games against Rangers FC. But instead of holding on to the lead, the home team went on the hunt for a second goal. It had all the necessary chances before the break, but just under ten minutes after the break the final decision seemed to be made.
Exciting two minutes
Once again it was Ismael Saibari who set the Philips Stadium on fire. Luuk de Jong got his toe behind a long ball and managed to pass the ball. The midfielder could easily finish it: 2-0.
Rangers came back into the game out of the blue. James Tavernier managed to walk in a cross from former PSV player Sam Lammers. It wasn’t really exciting, because two minutes later Luuk de Jong headed in the 3-1.
That lead was no longer in danger, although Rabbi Matondo still shot at the post. More than ten minutes before the end, Joey Veerman completed the party in Eindhoven. He scored the 4-1 with a dry bang. An own goal even led to the 5-1.
Tens of millions
PSV deals with trauma. Three times is a charm. After failed attempts against Benfica and Rangers FC, it finally reaches the group stage of the Champions League again. In 2018 it was last active in the ball of millions.
It may add tens of millions due to the placement for the Champions League. A nice boost and perhaps a reason to strengthen in the last two days. The draw for the group stage awaits on Thursday. Then it will become clear which European superpowers will come to Eindhoven.