PSV Eindhoven’s Europa League campaign begins in Slovenia on Thursday as they face NS Mura in the third qualifying round. Kick-off is at 6 pm UK time.
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PSV Eindhoven were fourth when the Eredivisie season was ended early, meaning they only received a place in the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
They face the task of two qualifying games to reach the group stages, starting with Slovenian side NS Mura, who saw off Nõmme Kalju 4-0 in the first round before beating Danish side AGF 3-0 to set up the tie against PSV.
NS Mura, who were only founded in 2012, finished fourth in the Slovenian league last season, and are in their second-ever European campaign. They currently sit top in the league after four games, beating Gorica 1-0 at the weekend.
PSV have had a good start to their league campaign with two wins, but needed a late winner to see off Emmen 2-1 at the weekend.
Roger Schmidt’s side would face Rosenborg or Alanyaspor should they get past Mura.
However, the PSV coach is expecting a difficult game against the Slovenians, “It will be a tough game tomorrow. They have not yet received a goal against either in the competition or in a European context, which indicates that they have a strong defence. ”
Team News
PSV will be without new signing Eran Zahavi in Slovenia, as well as the injured Érick Gutiérrez and Armando Obispo.
Possible PSV line-up: Mvogo, Dumfries, Max, Teze, Boscagli, Rosario, Thomas, Gakpo, Ihattaren, Madueke, Malen
Possible Mura line-up: Obradovic, Kous, Sturm, Gorenc, Karnicnik, Kouter, Kozar, Bobicanec, Zizek, Cipot, Filipovic
Odds
NS Mura 17/2 Draw 15/4 PSV 1/3
Can PSV reach the next round?
NS Mura will certainly be no pushovers on Thursday but it is a tie that PSV Eindhoven should be winning.
The big worry for Schmidt is the errors from goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo in the last two matches, and a clean sheet will be key for victory. Donyell Malen, Noni Madueke and Cody Gakpo have all started the season in fine form and its a frontline that should have too much for the home side.
It will not be an easy match but if they play at their best then PSV should be in the next round where a tougher tie lies in wait.
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