PSV managed to beat Willem II 0-2 in Tilburg, but it was not always easy. The home team put up strong resistance in the first half, while PSV finally struck after the break thanks to Ricardo Pepi, who scored both goals.
The match immediately started with fireworks when Willem II had a great chance within 35 seconds. Cisse Sandra shot into the side netting after a cross from Kyan Vaesen. Part of the stadium thought the ball was in, but the attempt went just wide. Moments later, PSV also had a great chance, but Malik Tillman collided with Willem II keeper Thomas Didillon-Hödl from close range.
PSV had more ball possession in the first half, but Willem II remained strong. The best chance for the Tilburg team came in the 19th minute when striker Kyan Vaesen headed Nick Doodeman’s cross towards the goal. A “cat-like reflex” from PSV keeper Walter Benitez kept the ball out of the net.
After the break the game pattern changed. Shortly after the restart, PSV took the lead. A free kick from Joey Veerman was headed in by Ricardo Pepi: 0-1. Willem II then seemed to lose control, while PSV increasingly took control. After a nice action by Rick Karsdorp, he neatly put the ball back in the 64th minute, after which Pepi shot in his second of the evening: 0-2.
Willem II tried to return the favor with long balls and high pressure, but PSV no longer ran into problems.
