PSV Eindhoven — Groningen : Match Preview and Prediction for August 23,2025

PSV’s Mounting Injury Crisis

The reigning champions, PSV Eindhoven, approach this fixture grappling with significant personnel challenges. Coach Peter Bosz finds himself in a highly precarious situation, contending with an injury crisis that has sidelined several pivotal players. The state of the attacking line, in particular, appears critically weakened.

Striking Options Severely Limited

New signing Alassane Plea, brought in as the primary striker, underwent surgery and is not expected back until 2026. The secondary forward, Ricardo Pepi, is also not fit to start, a fact confirmed by Bosz himself during a press conference. Consequently, the coach is compelled to hastily reconfigure his attacking formation, even considering nominal midfielder Guus Til for the central striker role.

Midfield and Defensive Setbacks

The difficulties extend beyond the forward line. In midfield, Joey Veerman, a crucial architect of their attacks, will miss out due to a thigh injury. To compound matters, primary left-back Mauro Junior is also sidelined after sustaining an ankle injury in the match against FC Twente. This forces a tactical reshuffle, requiring Sergino Dest to switch flanks and Kiliann Sildillia to start, inevitably disrupting the defensive cohesion.

Recent Performance and Statistical Trends

Even their recent 2-0 victory over FC Twente should not be misinterpreted. That particular game proved exceptionally challenging for PSV, with statistics showing their opponents managed more shots on goal (19 versus 15). All indicators suggest that the current PSV squad, weakened and experimental, is far from its peak performance. Historical trends further support that dominant wins are unlikely for the Eindhoven side: in 13 of their last 17 home matches, PSV has not won by more than a two-goal margin.

Groningen’s Recent Form and Confidence Boost

Groningen arrives in Eindhoven on the back of a hard-fought comeback victory in the northern derby against Heerenveen (2-1). Forward Brynjólfur Willumsson emerged as the hero of that encounter, scoring a brace and securing three crucial points for his team in the dying minutes. This triumph, earned in a fiercely contested rivalry, will undoubtedly boost the team’s confidence.

Defensive Reinforcements

Furthermore, Groningen has recently bolstered its defensive line. Just days ago, 19-year-old central defender Dies Janse joined the team on loan from Ajax. This towering player (196 cm tall) is a youth international and is expected to add significant solidity to the central defense.

Resilience Under Pressure

Statistics from the Heerenveen match highlight the team’s ability to withstand pressure. Groningen allowed their opponents 16 shots on goal but managed to effectively capitalize on their own opportunities to secure a positive outcome. The team demonstrates resilience and organized defending, which will be a pivotal factor at the Philips Stadion.

Statistical Edge and Away Form

Overall trends also favor Groningen. In 17 of their last 20 matches, the team has not lost by more than a two-goal margin. The trend for away games is particularly telling: in 15 of their previous 20 away fixtures, Groningen has also covered a +2.5 goal handicap.