PSV Women delivered a stunning display at De Kuip, securing a dominant 4-1 victory over Feyenoord Women on Saturday, December 21. This emphatic win has reinforced PSV's position at the top of the Azerion Women's Eredivisie as they head toward the winter break.
The match began with PSV immediately asserting their dominance. Within just twenty minutes, they had established a three-goal buffer, showcasing their aggressive game strategy. The scoring was initiated by Melanie Bross, who found the net after ten minutes, capitalizing on defensive miscues from Feyenoord. "After just twenty minutes, the score was already 3-0 for the Eindhoven team," observed commentators during the game.
Following Bross's opening goal, Riola Xhemaili doubled the lead shortly thereafter, converting on another chance after persistent pressure from PSV's forwards. Xhemaili not only scored but also contributed significantly by assisting Chimera Ripa for the third goal, which was executed perfectly and struck the net just eight minutes later. This rapid-fire scoring left Feyenoord scrambling for answers; they could not effectively respond to the high pressing and quick pace set by PSV's players.
Feyenoord, appearing tentative and lacking fluidity, struggled to regain composure throughout the first half, which culminated with Ripa netting her first goal of the match, making the score 3-0 by halftime. The ease with which PSV was able to exploit the gaps left by Feyenoord’s defense highlighted their tactical superiority. "Xhemaili was also involved with the assist on Ripa's goal, which found the net in the eighteenth minute," reported the match analysis.
The second half saw little change in fortunes for Feyenoord. PSV maintained the pressure, and within minutes of the restart, former Feyenoord player, Sicca Folkertsma, provided Ripa with another chance, leading to her second goal of the game. This goal seemed to cement the match outcome, putting the score at 4-0. Feyenoord showed small signs of life and finally broke through with a goal from substitute Jada Conijnenberg, who scored shortly before the end of the match. "Although Jada Conijnenberg scored for Feyenoord later, it was merely for statistics," noted one commentator, encapsulating the sentiment of the afternoon for the Rotterdam club.
With this victory, PSV Women firmly planted themselves as contenders for the title, heading confidently toward the winter break. Their performance against Feyenoord not only highlighted their attacking prowess but also sent a clear message to the rest of the league: they are determined to maintain their lead. Ajax, currently second, may pose a challenge when they face Excelsior, but for now, PSV enjoys the view from the top, bolstered by their recent success.
Reflecting on the match, PSV’s coach Roeland ten Berge expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of their strategy and execution. His tactics have certainly paid off, allowing PSV to remain at the forefront of the league standings as they prepare for the challenges to come after the winter hiatus.
