PSV Eindhoven Secures Narrow 3-2 Victory Over Red Star Belgrade Thanks To Luuk De Jong's Two Goals

Add as a preferred source on Google

Luuk de Jong's two goals were crucial as PSV Eindhoven secured a 3-2 win against Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League. The match, held at the chilly Stadion Rajko Mitic, saw PSV reduced to ten players but still managing to hold on. Ryan Flamingo added a third goal for PSV before being sent off early in the second half, shifting momentum towards Red Star.

Despite Flamingo's dismissal, PSV maintained their composure. Cherif Ndiaye and Nasser Djiga scored headers for Red Star, intensifying the pressure. However, PSV's defence stood firm, ensuring they remain in contention for the play-offs with 11 points from seven matches. In contrast, Red Star is out of the running with only three points.

PSV took an early lead when De Jong headed home from a Joey Veerman corner. He soon doubled his tally with another header from Veerman's delivery. Before halftime, Flamingo volleyed in a third goal from yet another corner, showcasing PSV's set-piece prowess.

Flamingo's joy was short-lived as he received a red card five minutes into the second half for fouling Nemanja Radonjic near the penalty area. This incident gave Red Star hope as they capitalised on their numerical advantage to score twice through Ndiaye and Djiga.

De Jong has proven himself indispensable during crucial moments. Of his last 11 Champions League goals, nine have been pivotal—either equalising or giving his team the lead. This match marked his third instance of both scoring and assisting in a Champions League game since September 2016 against Rostov.

The victory keeps PSV on track for further progression in the tournament. Their ability to withstand pressure and utilise set-pieces effectively has been key to their success so far this season.