In the second round of the UEFA Champions League, PSV takes on Spanish side Sevilla FC. José Luis Mendilibar's team has started the season moderately, but still has exceptional qualities and an extraordinary amount of experience.
With seven points from as many games, the Rojiblancos are not yet very happy in La Liga. The standings of the Spanish league can be treacherous, as Sevilla FC have already proven several times that they can play football from a good organization. These included draws against Manchester City and Atlético Madrid. This weekend it lost to FC Barcelona by just 1-0 due to an own goal in the closing stages.
Selection
Although Marko Dmitrović (31) began the season as first goalkeeper, he now seems to have been passed over by Ørjan Nyland (33). The Norwegian has been under the crossbar for the past three games and is in all likelihood the goalkeeper on duty on Tuesday night as well.
Defense
Mendilibar has a pool of experience at the back. Centrally, Sergio Ramos (37), Loïc Badé (23) and Nemanja Gudelj (31) call the shots. They are almost always assisted on the flanks by Jesús Navas (37) and Marcos Acuña (31). The latter is in all likelihood out due to injury. In that case, he will be replaced by Adrià Pedrosa (25).
Midfield
In midfield, Sevilla FC also has a number of veterans. Fernando (36) and Djibril Sow (26) are considered the two regular controllers. One line forward, Ivan Rakitić (35) plays as an attacking midfielder. And with Óliver Torres (29), the Spaniards have a worthy replacement in house for the former UEFA Champions League winner.
Attack
Up front, Mendilibar adapts the composition of his flank players to the opponent. Puskas Award-winner Erik Lamela (31) swaps places with Suso (29) on the left wing. Either Lucas Ocampos (29) or Dodi Lukebakio (26) will be trusted on the right, although Dodi is likely to play in the striker position if Youssef En-Nesyri (26) drops out injured. The Moroccan international was absent against FC Barcelona, but is in the squad for the game against PSV. Former Real Madrid player Mariano Díaz (30) is also an option in the for the point of attack.
Part of the strength of the Spaniards, who won last year's UEFA Europa League, is in the air. The headstrong Youssef En-Nesyri is constantly sought after with crosses. During standard situations, Sergio Ramos adds to that.
Last five matches
FC Barcelona 1-0 defeat | Almeriá 5-1 win | Osasuna 0-0 draw | RC Lens 1-1 draw | Las Palmas 1-0 win
