Groningen fell to a 2-1 defeat at home against PSV Eindhoven on Sunday, , in a match marked by a debutant goalkeeper’s emotional display and a continued surge from the league leaders. The victory extends PSV’s impressive away form and moves them closer to securing the Eredivisie title.
PSV, however, had to come from behind to secure the three points. Groningen took an early lead, with Younes Taha finding the net after just 15 minutes against debutant PSV goalkeeper Niek Schiks. The goal initially sparked a wave of emotion for Schiks, who appeared overwhelmed by the moment, a reaction described as “emotional” by multiple sources.
Despite the early setback, PSV responded, ultimately turning the tide with goals from Ismael Saibari and an own goal. The comeback marks PSV’s sixteenth consecutive away victory in the Eredivisie, a testament to their dominance on the road. Peter Bosz, the PSV manager, acknowledged the significance of the streak, stating that reaching seventeen consecutive away wins would be “bizarre.”
The match wasn’t without its drama. Schiks’ emotional response after conceding the opening goal became a focal point, with reports highlighting his visibly shaken state. He was described as an “emotional young man” following the game, underscoring the pressure and excitement of his first appearance for the club.
This victory builds on PSV’s recent form. They previously secured a 3-0 home win against Feyenoord at the Philips Stadion, demonstrating their strength across all competitions. Prior to the league match, PSV also triumphed 4-1 at home against Heerenveen in the KNVB Cup, further solidifying their position as a dominant force in Dutch football.
The result leaves PSV firmly in control of the Eredivisie title race. Currently holding a significant lead in the standings, they boast 59 points from 22 matches, with 19 wins, 2 draws, and only 1 loss. Groningen, meanwhile, remains in the mid-table, with 31 points from 22 games, recording 9 wins, 4 draws, and 9 losses.
Elsewhere in the Eredivisie on Sunday, Feyenoord secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Utrecht, easing some pressure on head coach Robin van Persie. Jakub Moder played a key role in the winning goal, setting up Oussama Targhalline for the opener. Utrecht’s hopes of a comeback were hampered by a red card shown to Miguel Rodríguez.
A late equalizer denied Go Ahead Eagles victory against Telstar, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw. Stefan Ingi Sigurdarson, making his debut for Go Ahead Eagles, appeared to have scored the winner in the 85th minute, but Jeff Hardeveld salvaged a point for Telstar with a goal deep into injury time.
Ajax managed a 94th-minute equalizer to draw 1-1 with AZ Alkmaar. Wouter Goes had given AZ the lead in the 52nd minute, but Kian Fitz-Jim secured a point for Ajax with a header in stoppage time. Oleksander Zinchenko made his debut for Ajax during the second half of the match.
The weekend’s results highlight the competitive nature of the Eredivisie, with PSV continuing to set the pace. Their ability to overcome adversity, as demonstrated in the match against Groningen, underscores their championship credentials. The team’s consistent performance, coupled with their impressive away record, positions them as strong favorites to lift the title at the end of the season.
Looking ahead, PSV will be aiming to maintain their momentum and extend their lead at the top of the table. Their next challenge will test their resolve as they continue their pursuit of Eredivisie glory. Groningen, will need to regroup and focus on securing points to climb the standings.
