The PSV-Ajax match is still on despite a confirmed tuberculosis case involving a PSV player. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) affirmed on March 25, 2025, that no plans to call off the anticipated match between PSV Eindhoven and Ajax Amsterdam are in place, even in light of the health scare. This announcement comes after Lucas Pérez, a 36-year-old striker for PSV, was diagnosed with active tuberculosis, raising public health concerns.
In a statement, the KNVB said, "We have spoken to both clubs, and there is no reason to assume that the match will not continue." This finding is reassuring as the clubs and health officials are collaborating to assess the situation through source and contact tracing. The GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, a regional public health service, is conducting tests to ensure that there is no further spread of the disease. The results of this significant health inquiry are expected to be available by the end of the week.
On Tuesday, March 25, a spokesperson from PSV reassured the public that preliminary checks revealed no indications of infection among Pérez's nearby contacts. “The risk of infection in the patient’s surroundings is limited. There is no danger of infection outdoors,” explained Pascal Wielders, a lung doctor affiliated with GGD Brabant-Zuidoost. This statement alleviated immediate concerns, as the match between these two title-contending teams on March 30 is crucial to the Eredivisie championship race.
Pérez joined PSV in February on a free transfer to replace Ricardo Pepi, who had suffered an injury. Since his arrival, Pérez has participated in just three matches, with limited impact, coming on as a substitute in two Eredivisie contests and appearing briefly in a cup match. His potential absence could be a setback for PSV, especially since they find themselves in a tight race with Ajax, who currently leads the league by six points.
Perspectives from the PSV camp highlight the challenges posed by this outbreak. While the club awaits further information from health authorities, their training regime and team strategy must adapt to the sudden change in available personnel. Should the match proceed as scheduled, PSV will rely on Luuk de Jong to step up in the striker role, especially with both Pérez and Pepi unavailable.
The match is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. at PSV's Philips Stadium and promises to be a critical contest in determining the Eredivisie title landscape. A win for Ajax would significantly strengthen their claim to the championship, while PSV aims to exploit their home advantage amidst the uncertainty surrounding their squad.
The health of players is of paramount importance, and both clubs are committed to ensuring a safe environment for all stakeholders involved. As the situation unfolds, fans, players, and officials are closely monitoring developments, reflecting the contemporary intersection of sports and health concerns in professional football. This scenario underscores the ongoing need for diligent health protocols in sports.
While the footballing action continues with a full schedule ahead, this tuberculosis case has served as a sober reminder of the health complexities that can arise unexpectedly. The commitment from the KNVB and both clubs to prioritize health while maintaining competitive integrity is crucial as they navigate these uncertain waters.
In the end, the match promises not just thrilling football but an illustration of sportsmanship in the face of adversity. All eyes will be on PSV and Ajax as they step onto the pitch, pushing through the challenges of the game and the health landscape surrounding it.
