PSV Edges FC Groningen 3-1, Maintains Five-Point Lead Over Feyenoord

PSV Eindhoven secures a 3-1 win over FC Groningen, fending off the challenge from Feyenoord and maintaining a five-point lead in the Eredivisie standings.

PSV Eindhoven secured a 3-1 victory against FC Groningen, fending off the challenge of Feyenoord in the Eredivisie standings. The win comes after a devastating 2-0 loss to Ajax, which significantly diminished PSV's title hopes. Despite missing injured players Jerdy Schouten and Sergino Dest, PSV showed resilience with Malik Tillman and Richard Ledezma starting in their place.

Tillman made a strong impact, scoring the opening goal in just 11 minutes with a beautifully curled shot from outside the box. Former World Cup finalist Ivan Perisic doubled PSV's lead 15 minutes later with a powerful header from Richard Ledezma's cross, catching Groningen goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen off guard.

Drie punten! 🤜🤛#GROPSV pic.twitter.com/CU69CzVVOD

— PSV (@PSV) April 5, 2025

FC Groningen refused to back down, with Luciano Valente leading the charge. The Italian-Dutch midfielder controlled the play with his creativity and passing abilities, playing a crucial role in Groningen's equalizer. Valente set up Dave Kwakman with a perfect defense-splitting pass, and Kwakman beat Walter Benitez with a well-timed curled effort, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

The second half was relatively uneventful, with Groningen struggling to create chances against PSV. Although Luuk de Jong's goal was ruled out for offside, PSV eventually secured their third goal when Johan Bakayoko headed in a loose ball in the 88th minute. This win kept PSV five points ahead of Feyenoord, who had won 1-0 over AZ earlier in the day.

FC Groningen Drops to Tenth Place

The loss dropped FC Groningen to tenth place in the Eredivisie standings, outside the playoff spots. Despite a strong performance, Groningen couldn't maintain their momentum and ultimately fell short against PSV. The team's struggles continue, and they will look to regroup and find their footing in the league.