EINDHOVEN--For the second time in seven days, PSV Eindhoven scored five goals against FC Zurich. PSV ran out 5-0 winners to keep up with group leaders Arsenal in the Europa League.
Last week, PSV won 5-1 in Zurich and they were looking for another victory on Thursday, especially after Arsenal had defeated Bodo/Glimt in the group’s other tie.
After nine minutes, PSV took the lead with Erick Gutierrez reacting quickly after Armando Obispo’s header was kept out. Six minutes later, Joey Veerman finished well in the box to make it 2-0.
Zurich posed a threat but PSV goalkeeper Walter Benitez kept the visitors out before Ibrahim Sangaré added a third before the break. The midfielder scored after Cody Gakpo’s header was kept out of the goalbox.
Gakpo and Xavi Simons were given a rest at half time, before Veerman netted his second of the game with another lovely finish. PSV eased to victory and added a fifth goal thanks to a fierce low strike by Anwar El Ghazi.
PSV now hosts FC Utrecht this weekend before a clash with Arsenal in London next Thursday. PSV are two points behind Arsenal in the group.
Feyenoord
For the second week in a row, Feyenoord Rotterdam were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Midtjylland in the Europa League.
Last week, Feyenoord led the Danes 2-0 before the hosts fought back to take a point. This week, Feyenoord-manager Arne Slot decided to start with Santiago Gimenez up front, instead of Danilo.
The Mexican striker missed a good chance early on before Midtjylland took the lead through Emiliano Martinez’s excellent strike.
The ball was gifted to Martinez after a poor clearance by Alireza Jahanbakhsh and he hammered it low past Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow.
Gernot Trauner missed a great chance to equalise as he hit the post before heading the rebound straight at goalkeeper Jonas Lössl. After half an hour, Quinten Timber did fire Feyenoord level after a fine team move.
Early in the second half, Feyenoord led as good work from Lutsharel Geertruida led to Dávid Hancko finding the net. However, the lead only lasted 10 minutes before Erik Sviatchenko headed in from a free kick by Evander to make it 2-2.
Patrik Walemark hit the post for Feyenoord but in the end, they had to settle for a draw. Feyenoord remain on top of their group as Lazio Roma and Sturm Graz also drew 2-2.
