PSV Eindhoven and Arsenal meet in a Champions League fixture at Philips Stadion, a match that holds little importance in terms of qualification but serves as an opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and squad rotations.
Match Preview
PSV Eindhoven secured their spot in the knockout stage with an impressive performance against Sevilla.
Their recent form has been commanding, highlighted by a 2-0 victory over Heerenveen, maintaining their unbeaten record at home in 2023. PSV’s Eredivisie dominance, having won 15 games from 15, underscores their strength.
Arsenal, despite a shock 1-0 loss to Aston Villa in the Premier League, arrives in the Netherlands as Group B winners.
Their Champions League journey has been commendable, especially a commanding 4-0 win over PSV in September. However, the Gunners have injury concerns but boast a solid goal difference in the group stages.
Form Guide
PSV Eindhoven (Champions League): W-L-D-D-W-W
PSV Eindhoven (All Competitions): W-L-W-W-W-W
Arsenal (Champions League): W-L-W-W-W
Arsenal (All Competitions): W-W-W-W-W-L
Team News
PSV’s Hirving Lozano is suspended but also undergoing treatment for a hip injury. Several players, including Noa Lang, Armel Bella-Kotchap, and Jordan Teze, might miss the match due to injuries. Ricardo Pepi’s impact from the bench could earn him a starting spot.
Arsenal faces multiple injury concerns, with Takehiro Tomiyasu, Emile Smith Rowe, Jurrien Timber, Thomas Partey, and Fabio Vieira ruled out.
Manager Mikel Arteta might rotate the squad, providing opportunities to Eddie Nketiah, Leandro Trossard, and others.
Possible Lineups
PSV Eindhoven: (4-3-3)
Benitez;
Dest, Ramalho, Boscagli, Van Aanholt;
Saibari, Veerman, Til;
Bakayoko, De Jong, Pepi
Arsenal: (4-3-3)
Raya;
White, Saliba, Kiwior, Zinchenko;
Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice;
Nelson, Nketiah, Trossard
Prediction: PSV Eindhoven 1-1 Arsenal
Despite Arsenal’s superior position in the group, this match holds little significance. PSV might seek redemption for their previous defeat against Arsenal but could struggle due to attacking absences.
Both teams may opt to save energy for upcoming crucial domestic fixtures, resulting in a low-key draw.