Trainer Ruud van Nistelrooij had mixed feelings about PSV’s match against AS Monaco (1-1) in the third preliminary round of the Champions League on Tuesday. The trainer saw his club play a strong first half, but almost lose in the final phase.
“On the one hand, I am disappointed that we played a draw. But on the other hand, I am also realistic. The light went out slowly in the second half,” Van Nistelrooij told ESPN.
PSV led 1-0 at halftime through a goal from Joey Veerman. “I thought we did too little with our possession. The attacks faltered every time due to mistakes in the passing. As a result, we could not continue playing football. We were in good position,” continued Van Nistelrooij.
In the final phase of the second half, Monaco came alongside and the home team was still close to victory with a ball on the post. “We played a tough game against Ajax on Saturday,” said the former attacker.
“Monaco did not play football then. You could see that. We got away well in the second half, it was survival at a certain point. All in all, I am proud of this team, that all players have gone so deep. Moreover, I have confidence in the return. We know how we are going to be supported.”
For PSV and Van Nistelrooij, the duel in Monaco was the second official game of the season. On Saturday Ajax was defeated 3-5 in the battle for the Johan Cruijff Scale. The first Eredivisie game awaits on Saturday, at home against FC Emmen.
PSV coach Ruud van Nistelrooij was left with mixed feelings about the match against Monaco.
PSV coach Ruud van Nistelrooij was left with mixed feelings about the match against Monaco. Photo: AP