PSV has failed to reach the final of the Otten Innovation Cup for the third year in a row. In Sunday’s semi-final, AS Monaco proved too strong for the Eindhoven side, securing a convincing 3–0 victory. As a result, the Monegasques will play in the final later this afternoon at PSV Campus De Herdgang. Shortly after the match, we spoke with PSV captain Benjamin Khaderi, who didn’t hide his disappointment: “It wasn’t a good performance from our side.”
Counterattack
Khaderi’s team had the upper hand in the opening minutes, but strangely enough, that changed after AS Monaco received a yellow card. PSV found themselves in a numerical advantage, yet it was Monaco who took control. 'I think we started the match well. It’s obviously a shame to concede two goals while having a man more. I think we were too focused on attacking, and that’s why we got punished on the counter.'
Lack of sharpness
A top-level tournament with many matches in just a few days can take its toll—especially against a physically strong side like AS Monaco. Still, Khaderi doesn’t believe that played a role. 'They definitely looked strong, but I think we’re strong too. We rotated a lot throughout the tournament, so in the end we had eleven fit players.'
According to the PSV captain, it came down to sharpness, which was lacking. 'We also rotated a lot during pre-season, so despite the changes, the automatisms should’ve been there. We were simply less sharp than the opponent.'
Recharge
After AS Monaco converted one of their many chances to make it 3–0, the match was decided. This means AS Monaco will play the final against Atlético Madrid later this afternoon, while PSV will compete for third place against Club Brugge.
Now it’s up to the young PSV players to recharge for the consolation final. According to Khaderi, that shouldn’t be a problem: 'You’re playing at home on a beautiful complex. Of course you want to go for third place—that’s the highest we can achieve now. Unfortunately, it’s not first place, but we still have to aim high, so we’re going for the win.'
Looking ahead After this tournament, the pre-season comes to an end. 'We’re starting the league and the cup. We want to become champions and win the cup. And of course, we have the Youth League with this team. We hope to make it through the group stage—and maybe even dream a little further.'