Juventus Triumphs Over PSV Eindhoven in Champions League Playoff
In a thrilling Champions League playoff on Tuesday, Juventus managed to edge past PSV Eindhoven with a hard-fought 2-1 victory. The match was a testament to Juventus’ resilience and determination, as they faced a formidable PSV defense that proved difficult to break down.
The breakthrough came courtesy of Weston McKennie, the dynamic midfielder from the United States. In the 34th minute, McKennie unleashed a blistering shot into the top right corner from just inside the penalty area, following a chaotic scramble. This goal not only broke the deadlock but also set the tone for the rest of the match.
Reflecting on his goal, McKennie told Sky Sport Italia, “It was a good goal, though I think I scored a better one against Barcelona in 2020. I was really lucky!” He added, “I was calm because last week in training I scored a lot of goals, so I felt pretty confident. The important thing isn’t scoring a goal or providing an assist, but helping the team win.”
McKennie’s contribution was pivotal in Juventus’ victory, but it was substitute Samuel Mbangula who secured the win with his first Champions League goal in the 82nd minute. This goal was a moment of relief for Juventus, who have been plagued by draws this season, with three in eight games in the Champions League group stage and 13 in 24 matches in Serie A.
McKennie’s performance was not just a flash in the pan. The 26-year-old has a decent return of 11 goals in 58 games for the U.S. team, and this was his third in the Champions League this season – all with his trusted right foot and all in victories. In the league phase, he scored against Manchester City and in the opener also against PSV. His 7th UCL goal places him in elite Concacaf company, trailing only Javier Hernández (14 goals), Christian Pulisic (12), Dwight Yorke (11), and Jonathan David (9) in goals scored in the competition.
McKennie humbly downplayed his role, stating, “My role is not important, I work for the team. We all work just for the squad, whether it’s as a full-back or a midfielder. I played in a more central position tonight. But the team always wants to press forward, and that’s a team effort.”
PSV Eindhoven’s strategy to neutralize in-form striker Randal Kolo Muani was evident. Kolo Muani, who had netted five goals in his three games since joining on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, found it challenging to break through PSV’s defense.
McKennie was not the only U.S. international making waves on the field. Timothy Weah showcased his skills with a couple of impressive runs down the right flank, almost setting up Kolo Muani early in the first half and Mbangula early into the second period.
The home crowd experienced a moment of silence in the 56th minute when veteran midfielder Ivan Perisic scored. Perisic, who played seven years for Italian rival Inter Milan from 2015-22, was jeered by Juve’s fans despite his technically gifted play, having scored 55 goals and winning the Serie A in 2021 and the Italian Cup a year later.
Ultimately, the relief was palpable when Mbangula capitalized on a mistake by PSV’s goalkeeper Walter Benitez, who spilled Francisco Conceição‘s right-wing cross, allowing Mbangula to sweep the ball in.
- Juventus’ resilience shines through in a challenging season.
- Weston McKennie’s goal adds to his impressive Champions League tally.
- Samuel Mbangula’s first UCL goal secures a crucial win.
As Juventus continues their Champions League journey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can maintain this momentum and overcome the challenges that have plagued them this season.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
