PSV’s seemingly smooth progress to the knockout stages took a huge setback with their 3-0 defeat to Schalke on Matchday 5.
The Dutch champions now need a win tonight to ensure a place in the last 16 of the Champions League. Opponents Fenerbahce SK also have plenty to play for, as a victory will take them into the UEFA Cup at their Dutch hosts’ expense.
“As a team we just want to go as far as possible in the Champions League,” said PSV coach Guus Hiddink.
“We will definitely be doing everything we can to proceed into the last 16 for the second year running. That’s our top priority.”
Experienced defender Michael Reiziger may miss out because of an ankle injury, with Dutch international Theo Lucius expected to stand in. Both Ibrahim Afellay and André Ooijer are expected to shake off nagging injuries.
Fenerbahce coach Christoph Daum was optimistic about his team’s prospects, even though they have yet to pick up a point away from home in Group E.
“We played very well in Milan and, if we had been a little less enthusiastic at the end, may have taken all three points,” said the German.
“And against Schalke, even with nine men, we made them nervous. If we can play like we did in the San Siro and make PSV nervous, we can win.”
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