Juventus secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven on February 11, 2025, during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League knockout phase. This match proved to be particularly momentous for 21-year-old Belgian talent Samuel Mbangula, who scored the first Champions League goal of his burgeoning career.
Initially starting the match on the bench, Mbangula replaced Kenan Yidliz at halftime. With the score tied at 1-1—after Ivan Perisic equalized for PSV following Weston McKennie's opening goal—time was running out for the home side to find the winning strike. Juventus was under pressure to secure victory on home soil, as failing to do so would complicate their return leg at Eindhoven.
It was then Mbangula's moment to shine. He capitalized on a rebound after Walter Benitez parried a cross from the right, showing composure and skill to slot the ball past the PSV goalkeeper, sealing the win for Juventus. His goal not only lifted the spirits of the team but also marked the first milestone of his professional career on one of the biggest stages of club football.
This victory is particularly significant for Juventus as it places them one step closer to advancing to the Round of 16. The performance may not have been flawless—filled with technical errors and moments of lackluster play—but the all-important three points have set the stage for a potentially easier second leg.
Post-match, Juventus coach Thiago Motta acknowledged the challenges his team faced against PSV Eindhoven, noting, "It was an even game against a team who wants to play good football and does it well. This victory is only the first step. We have to put in a great performance to progress. Dynamism is important for our game, and we need to maintain this intensity. Our young team needs to inject pace to cause problems for our opponents."
Meanwhile, Weston McKennie, who had opened the scoring with a precise shot just before halftime, remarked, "I scored a nice goal, but for me it's not important to score or make assists; the most important thing is for the team to win. Today we pressed high and won many second balls, which contributed to our success."
Reflecting on his own performance, Mbangula stated, "Today, the win was important for the team to help our consistency. I scored the goal, which was good, but I know I can do much more. We need to keep playing our quality football, especially when we concede, and continue to look for goals.”
While the result was favorable for Juventus, there were areas for improvement away from their usual high standards of play. The performance was marred by several missed opportunities and technical errors, indicating room for growth as they prepare for the decisive return leg against PSV Eindhoven.
Certainly, Mbangula's impact off the bench was notable, leading to discussions about his integration as a regular starter moving forward. The young star's goal not only alleviated pressure on the team but also showcased his potential, highlighting Motta's commitment to developing young talents within the squad.
On the other hand, PSV Eindhoven showed flashes of their own capabilities but fell just short. The visitors had opportunities, most prominently illustrated by Perisic's equalizer. They will be taking confidence from their performance as they prepare for the challenge posed by Juventus back on home soil.
With the prospect of progression to the next round of the competition now firmly within Juventus' grasp, the team is eager to build on this momentum. Eyes will be on Mbangula and his fellow talents as they look to perform at the Philips Stadion, aiming to secure their place among Europe’s elite clubs.
This match was undoubtedly only the beginning for Mbangula, who at just 21, has already ignited excitement among fans and players alike with his promising career. Juventus supporters will be hoping for many more memorable moments from the young Belgian as the tournament progresses.