Preview: PSV Eindhoven vs. Heracles – Prediction, Team News & Lineups
Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven welcome Heracles Almelo to the Philips Stadion this Saturday.
Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven welcome Heracles Almelo to the Philips Stadion this Saturday. The match kicks off a crucial weekend of Dutch football. PSV aims to bounce back immediately from a midweek Champions League defeat. In contrast, Heracles arrives with improved form, hoping to cause a major upset against the league titans. This clash promises tension and goals, as PSV’s formidable attack meets a determined Heracles side.
Clash of Titans and Underdogs: What to Expect
History and current form heavily favor a PSV victory. In fact, PSV has a staggering record against Heracles, winning 40 of their last 50 meetings. They have also won the last seven consecutive encounters with an impressive aggregate score of 23-3.
This season, PSV boasts the best attack and defence in the league. They have scored 46 goals while conceding only 17. Consequently, predictions point towards a comfortable home win, with scorelines like 3-1 or 4-1 being widely suggested. Despite PSV’s defensive strength, Heracles’ recent form suggests they could find the net. Therefore, many anticipate a high-scoring game with over 2.5 goals and both teams scoring.
Team News and Key Players
PSV Eindhoven: Powering Through Absences
PSV appears to have avoided any new injuries from their European fixture. However, they remain without a few key players. The team will miss Ruben van Bommel and Alassane Plea due to knee injuries. Additionally, Myron Boadu is sidelined with a muscular issue.
Despite these absences, PSV’s squad depth is impressive. Look out for midfielder Guus Til, who has already netted 10 goals this season. Ismael Saibari is another major threat with eight goals. Furthermore, the creative force of Joey Veerman, with seven goals and six assists, will be crucial for the hosts.
PSV Eindhoven’s Joey Veerman controlling the midfield.
Heracles Almelo: Facing an Uphill Battle
Heracles faces several selection challenges ahead of their trip to Eindhoven. Firstly, they will be without the suspended Jan Zamburek, who is serving a one-match ban for accumulated yellow cards.
Their injury list is also a significant concern. It includes:
- Luka Kulenovic (hip)
- Sava Cestic (ankle)
- Jeff Reine-Adelaide (knee)
- Sem Scheperman (hamstring)
With these players unavailable, the attacking responsibility will largely fall on Jizz Hornkamp. He has been their standout performer, scoring eight league goals so far this season.
Heracles Almelo striker Jizz Hornkamp in action.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Given the team news, we can expect specific formations from both managers. PSV will likely continue with their attacking setup, while Heracles may opt for a more compact shape to handle the pressure.
PSV Eindhoven (4-3-3):
Kovar;
Dest, Schouten, Obispo, Salah-Eddine;
Til, Veerman, Mauro Junior;
Man, Pepi, Saibari
Heracles Almelo (4-4-2):
Jansink;
Te Wierik, Mirani, Van Hoorenbeeck, Mesik;
Limbombe, Hrustic, Bruns, Ould-Chikh;
Van Gilst, Hornkamp
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Final Thoughts: A Foregone Conclusion?
In conclusion, all signs point to a decisive victory for PSV Eindhoven. Their historical dominance, incredible home form, and sheer attacking firepower make them overwhelming favorites. While Heracles will fight hard and could grab a consolation goal, their significant list of absentees makes an upset highly unlikely. Ultimately, expect PSV to secure another three points at the Philips Stadion as they continue their march towards the Eredivisie title.
