PSV failed to put Feyenoord at a seemingly unbridgeable disadvantage in the Eredivisie on Sunday afternoon. After an intense, up-and-down match, the final score was ultimately 1-1.
Gakpo's return
Against Feyenoord, PSV could call on Cody Gakpo for the first time since the away match against Sparta Rotterdam. The Eindhoven native started immediately in the starting line-up and put the number 5 of the Eredivisie under great pressure with his team from the first whistle. Within just ten minutes, Philipp Max and Donyell Malen could have turned that approach to play into a lead. The latter's chance in particular was great: but in a duel with goalkeeper Marsman, Malen gave way.
Backline
Feyenoord, who started with five defenders, concentrated on holding back and lurking on the counter. That made the game look like January's game at De Kuip and the scoring developed accordingly after a quarter of an hour. The first opportunity the Rotterdammers got was a hit: Berghuis went inside and scored the 0-1. Unlike two months ago, Feyenoord were less effective with the opportunities and PSV were able to put things right before the break.
World pass Götze
Five minutes before both teams headed for the locker rooms, Malen was sharp in front of goal, though. He promoted a wonderful cross from Mario Götze to the equalizer: 1-1. Cold in the second half, Marsman then again emerged victorious from the duel. Invaders Jordan Teze and Noni Madueke saw how the Feyenoord goalkeeper prevented a PSV lead. Not too much later, Madueke was close himself. After a slalom, Marsman's foot and the goalpost stood in the way of the 2-1.
Inaccurate
The intense first hour then took its toll. Due to fatigue, both teams combined less accurately and the chance factor started to play more and more of a role. That was not to PSV's advantage, which no longer had any major chances. Also Yvon Mvogo was not really tested anymore and therefore the difference on the league table is still 8 points. In a week from now, PSV travels to Alkmaar where it must defend second place.
