Watch and download PSV vs Girona full match replay.
KICK-OFF at 17:45 (UTC) on 5th November 2024
The referee for this match is M. Oliver
Game played at Philips Stadion
This is a match in Europe – UEFA Champions League 2024/2025, League Stage
PSV Eindhoven marked their first UEFA Champions League (UCL) win of the season with an impressive 4-0 home victory over Girona, asserting their dominance and extending their unbeaten streak at home in the UCL proper to six games. This resounding win comes at a crucial point, as PSV struggled to build momentum in Europe’s top competition after a three-match winless streak in the group phase.
PSV’s European Journey: A Struggle on the Continent
While PSV has been a force in their domestic league, their European campaign has been less consistent. The team suffered a minor setback over the weekend with a 3-2 defeat to Ajax, halting a 10-game winning streak that started their season. However, they rebounded against Girona, who themselves were coming off a victory over Slovan Bratislava, looking to challenge PSV’s unbeaten UCL home record.
Early Pressure and a Stunning Opener from Flamingo
Girona showed early determination, but PSV’s Walter Benítez stood firm, denying dangerous attempts from Ladislav Krejčí and Bojan Miovski. Then, in a brilliant display of skill, Ryan Flamingo seized a throw-in from Malik Tillman and smashed a stunning volley into the net, marking his first goal in UEFA competition. PSV had their momentum, and soon Tillman added to it, carving through Girona’s defense to make it 2-0, leaving Girona manager Míchel visibly frustrated on the sidelines.
Second Half Drama: Red Card and Missed Chances
The second half saw Girona captain Arnau Martínez dismissed for a second yellow card after a late tackle on Noa Lang, leaving the visitors a man down. PSV’s captain, Luuk de Jong, came close to extending the lead but missed two golden chances, one hitting the post and another saved by Girona’s Paulo Gazzaniga. Despite the close calls, PSV continued to apply relentless pressure.
Sealing the Victory in Style
A VAR decision denied PSV a third goal when Ismael Saibari’s strike was ruled out for a foul in the build-up, but PSV’s determination paid off moments later. Johan Bakayoko powered a left-footed shot past Gazzaniga, bringing PSV’s tally to three. The night’s misery for Girona was capped off when a deflection from Krejčí turned into an own goal, sealing a 4-0 victory for PSV.
Looking Ahead: PSV Rising, Girona Faltering
With this result, PSV climbs into the knockout phase play-off positions, reinvigorating their UCL ambitions. Conversely, Girona’s struggles continue as they record a disappointing milestone, becoming the first Spanish team to lose their first two away matches in the UCL proper. PSV will look to build on this win, while Girona must regroup to stay in contention as the UCL season progresses.
This victory underscores PSV’s potential to make a mark in the Champions League, and fans can look forward to more exciting performances as they pursue their European dreams.