October 27, (THEWILL) – In a brilliant second-half cameo on Thursday, Luuk de Jong scored one goal and set up another as PSV defeated Arsenal 2-0, denying the Gunners the chance to take their Europa League Group A.
Prior to the game, Mikel Arteta, emphasised the significance of winning the group because the winners advance directly to the round of 16 and skip a playoff matchup that features the best third-place teams from the UEFA Champions League. Barcelona and six-time Europa League champion, Sevilla are already in the draw for that playoff.
PSV, who had already advanced to the knockout rounds thanks to Zurich’s late victory over Bodo/Glimt, appeared to be the group’s favourite to win, despite two goals by Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons rightfully disallowed for offside in the first half.
At half-time, Ruud van Nistelrooy introduced De Jong and he swiftly assisted Joey Veerman, for PSV’s first goal before scoring himself, meaning that both sides will now contest on Thursday to determine who will finish first in Group A. Although Arsenal still leads by two points, they will need to defeat Zurich in a rout to advance to the round of 16.
On Sunday, Arsenal will host Nottingham Forest, as they return to action in the English Premier League, while PSV faces NEC Nijmegen in the Eredivisie.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.