Eindhoven is turning more and more red and white. PSV can take the 26th national title on Sunday and in Eindhoven the preparations for the match against Sparta and a possible ceremony are in full swing. Hard work is being done on different squares in the city to have everything ready on time.
Large TV screens are now hanging on Stadhuisplein. The Markt, 18 Septemberplein, Catharinaplein and at the Oude Stadsgracht are also converted into places where large groups of fans can watch the PSV champion duel with Sparta. Everywhere stages, fences, sound installations and barrier lines are placed. Entertorsstraat Stratumseind is decorated with red white balloons and the catering is also preparing for the influx of fans. On Sunday, tens of thousands of supporters in the city center are expected.
“The catering is not yet complete,” says Marcel Schneijdenberg, main producer of Lion Event Support. “We still have to put some barrier lines, screens and sound.” A lot still needs to be done on some squares. 6,500 people will soon be able to visit the market. “Then it is locked here and people who are too late have to look elsewhere.” Schneijdenberg also has to work behind the scenes on Sunday. “That is less, because then I can’t see it. But it will be fine.”
There are some fans on the square on Saturday afternoon who follow the structure. Michael Roves from Eindhoven is in first rank. “Yes, nice with the noise,” he jokes. He is realistic, but optimistic. “We don’t have to run too fast, first play the game. But I am confident.” He himself will watch the game at his own football club. “Then we will certainly party.”
“Can’t go wrong”
Jona from Eindhoven also thinks that PSV will be able to make it against Sparta in Rotterdam. “I want to look in the city, it will be a big spectacle.” Frank from Veldhoven and Nick from Eindhoven are confident that PSV is prolonging the title on Sunday. “It can’t go wrong anymore,” they say. “It will be all right.” The two will watch the game on one of the squares. “There is more atmosphere than at home. Build a party.”
The 11-year-old Pim van Hees does not hesitate for a moment. PSV is going to win and becomes champion. “I know for sure.” He goes to the ceremony on Monday, provided that the Eindhoven players become champions.
If that happens, Marcel Schneijdenberg will have to buffer for a long time after the game. “We have to make sure that people can get back to it on Monday afternoon at two.”