Paul Bunyan
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PSV's return to the Champions League knockout stage after eight years sees them matched against formidable opponents who navigated through a tough group this season. Despite previous struggles in qualifying, PSV secured their spot earlier this season, finishing second in a competitive Group B behind Arsenal.
Recent victories against Lens and impressive performances against Sevilla and Arsenal at Philips Stadion have bolstered PSV's confidence, extending their unbeaten streak at home.
Under the leadership of captain Luuk de Jong, who has been prolific with 27 goals in 34 appearances, PSV has been formidable in the Eredivisie, remaining undefeated in 22 league matches this season.
While PSV aims to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2007, their focus is on gaining an advantage in the first leg against BVB. On the other hand, Borussia Dortmund, despite not replicating their domestic success from previous years, topped a challenging Group F ahead of strong contenders like Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan.
Under coach Edin Terzic, Dortmund has maintained a solid unbeaten run in their recent games. Although they may not be competing for the Bundesliga title this season, Dortmund remains a formidable opponent, as demonstrated by their recent draw against Wolfsburg.
As they head to the Netherlands, Dortmund aims to improve their away record in the Champions League knockout rounds, having lost eight of their last nine away games. However, their victories against Newcastle and Milan in the group stage provide them with confidence for the upcoming clash against PSV.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Peter Bosz, having made some additions to his Champions League squad, will deploy PSV Eindhoven in their familiar 4-3-3 formation for Tuesday's match. Leading the charge will be the prolific captain, Luuk de Jong, known for his goal-scoring prowess.On the right flank, Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko will play a key role, having been instrumental in creating chances and completing dribbles for PSV in the Champions League this season.
While Armel Bella-Kotchap has returned from injury, he isn't yet fit to start, and Guus Til is also unavailable. Therefore, Jerdy Schouten is expected to partner Joey Veerman in midfield.
On the Dortmund side, they have bolstered their squad with the inclusion of English talents Jadon Sancho, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Ian Maatsen. However, they will be without Ramy Bensebaini, Karim Adeyemi, and Felix Nmecha due to illness and injury.
Niclas Fullkrug is set to lead the attack in place of the injured Sebastien Haller, with support from Sancho, Julian Brandt, and Marco Reus. Additionally, former PSV player Donyell Malen will be pushing for a spot in the starting lineup, boasting an impressive record from his time at the Dutch club.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
PSV Eindhoven possible starting lineup:Benitez; Teze, Boscagli, Ramalho, Dest; Saibari, Schouten, Veerman; Bakayoko, De Jong, Lozano
Borussia Dortmund possible starting lineup:
Kobel; Ryerson, Sule, Schlotterbeck, Maatsen; Can, Sabitzer; Brandt, Reus, Sancho; Fullkrug
EXPERT PREDICTION
PSV 3-3 Borussia Dortmund
PSV 3-3 Borussia Dortmund
At Philips Stadion, goals are almost guaranteed, especially when PSV takes to the field. Known for their relentless attacking style, they can overpower opponents and dominate proceedings.
However, Dortmund's performance in the group stage indicates that they are capable of matching PSV's intensity and can keep themselves in the game, setting up an intriguing contest ahead of the return leg in Germany next month.