The battle for the second spot continues in Tilburg, where PSV will take on Willem II this Sunday. Both teams are fighting for their place at the extreme ends of the league. Roger Schmidt therefore expects a match full of passion and fighting spirit.
Last three games
According to Schmidt, the training sessions leading up to Sunday went very well. He will therefore go to Tilburg full of confidence. "Our goal is clear. We have to win every game and then we can keep the second spot. We talked about the last game and that's done. We are looking forward to the last three games in which we will fight for the second spot and thus Champions League football."
Champions League
The motivation for this could be seen on TV this week, Schmidt continued. "We all could see how Chelsea and Manchester City made it to the final of the Champions League. That should be enough motivation for a footballer, otherwise you're in the wrong profession. We want to compete in that tournament next season, I really don't have to tell them that. Of course our situation brings pressure, but that is always at the end of the season. The players are ready."
Dangerous opponent
Schmidt is aware that the stakes are also high for Willem II. The Tricolores are in fifteenth place and are still in danger of relegation. "They will do everything they can to stay in the league. They have already shown that in recent weeks. It's a team with power and they play good football. Therefore, this will really not be an easy match, even though we are much higher."
Selection
Against Willem II, Schmidt cannot call on a number of players. Érick Gutiérrez, Mauro Júnior, Ryan Thomas and Maximiliano Romero were already out of action for some time. The match also comes too soon for Timo Baumgartl and Mohamed Ihattaren. Baumgartl is still troubled by his knee and Ihattaren is ill. Schmidt hopes to be able to call on the midfielder again on Thursday against PEC Zwolle.
Armando Obispo
Armando Obispo played 45 minutes against SC Heerenveen after he replaced Nick Viergever, who had a yellow card, at halftime. The young central defender filled his role well and, according to Schmidt, showed his qualities and speed. "Sometimes players need a bit more time after a long injury, then they are still a bit stiff, but his timing was strong. For Young PSV he already played some good games. I felt he was ready."
Madueke's future
Noni Madueke also entered the lines after halftime. The striker may have had his final breakthrough this season. This has not gone unnoticed abroad either. The Head Coach does not pay much attention to all the rumors and is clear about Madueke's future. "Staying here is the best choice. At PSV he can develop and grow into a key player. It's clear he has a lot of potential, but he still needs to gain some experience. We can make room for him so he can become important here."