PSV Boss Looks Ahead In Europe – What’s To Come?

Luuk de Jong has expressed optimism about PSV Eindhoven’s potential to progress in the Champions League.

After facing tough sides like Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain, PSV currently sits with 2 points and ranks 28th. However, de Jong believes the team has more to offer in the competition: “In this format, we should at least reach the play-offs. We should aim for a top-24 finish – I believe that’s achievable.”

Reflecting on PSV’s upcoming matches, de Jong mentioned: “We’ll be up against Girona, Stade Brest, Shakhtar Donetsk, and Red Star Belgrade – teams we should be able to secure points from, particularly in our home fixtures. But it’s not easy; take Brest, for example. They’ve won their first two games and managed a draw against Bayer Leverkusen.”

Looking further ahead, de Jong sees potential in their last fixture against Liverpool. “When we host Liverpool, they may already be through, and that could present an opportunity for us,” he added. “I want to go as far as possible. And as long as I feel fit and in form, I’ll keep going, with hopes of many more European nights.”

PSV’s Remaining Champions League Schedule

After their 1-3 defeat to Juventus and draws with Sporting Portugal and PSG, PSV’s Champions League journey is far from over, with five matches still on the agenda.

PSV vs Girona – Tuesday, 18:45

PSV’s upcoming match is against Girona, marking their first encounter with the Catalan side in the competition phase. Girona features several familiar faces, including Daley Blind, Arnaut Danjuma, Donny van de Beek, and Gabriel Misehouy. Though Danjuma and Misehouy are out with injuries, PSV will look to follow Feyenoord’s example after their 3-2 win over Girona.

PSV vs Shakhtar Donetsk – Wednesday, 27 Nov, 21:00

Next, PSV faces Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk, led by coach Marino Pusic. Shakhtar’s Lassina Traoré, a former Ajax player, has struggled to score against PSV in past encounters, and the Eindhoven side hopes this trend continues in their first official clash with Shakhtar.

Stade Brest vs PSV – Tuesday, 10 Dec, 21:00

In December, PSV will meet Stade Brest, who are making their European debut this season. Brest’s keeper Marco Bizot, formerly of FC Groningen and AZ, has kept PSV at bay in recent matches, though PSV will aim to end his streak. Currently, Brest is a surprising fifth in the Champions League standings.

Red Star Belgrade vs PSV – Tuesday, 21 Jan, 21:00

PSV will travel to face Red Star Belgrade, a team that historically gave them a scare in the 2004 Champions League qualifying rounds. After losing 3-2 in Belgrade, PSV managed a strong response with a 5-0 home victory, eventually reaching the semi-finals before falling to AC Milan.

PSV vs Liverpool – Date TBC

Finally, PSV’s group stage will conclude with a challenging home fixture against Liverpool, who remain unbeaten by PSV historically. Managed by Arne Slot, Liverpool could be formidable, yet if their progression is secure by then, PSV may find an opening. It will also be a homecoming for Cody Gakpo, who previously shone in Eindhoven.