PSV lost a friendly 4-0 against Arminia Bielefeld on Saturday, which plays at the second level in Germany. Xavi Simons and Guus Til made their unofficial debut for the Eindhoven team.
PSV started the game in the intended starting line-up, with new captain Luuk de Jong in the striker and Guus Til in midfield. Still, it was Arminia Bielefeld – who was relegated from the Bundesliga last season – that came out much stronger. After twelve minutes Fabian Klos scored from an indirect free kick and after 33 minutes Janni-Luca Serra scored after midfielder Joey Veerman lost the ball.
At halftime, Van Nistelrooij brought in five new players, including midfielder Xavi Simons, who made his unofficial debut for the Eindhoven team. It was to no avail, as Arminia Bielefeld also scored twice in the second half, via an own goal from Derrick Luckassen and a dry blast from Noell Nieman.
It is the first defeat of the preparation for the team of coach Ruud van Nistelrooij. PSV previously won 6-0 against BW Lohne and drew against Cercle Brugge (2-2). There are also practice matches with Villarreal, Real Betis and fellow townsman Eindhoven on the program.
On Saturday 30 July, the Eindhoven team will play the match for the Johan Cruijff Scale against Ajax.
PSV coach Ruud van Nistelrooij gives instructions during the 4-0 loss against Arminia Bielefeld.
PSV coach Ruud van Nistelrooij gives instructions during the 4-0 loss against Arminia Bielefeld. Photo: Getty Images