PSV Eindhoven have lifted the Johan Cruijff Schaal after a 3-0 win over Groningen in the annual curtain raiser for the Dutch football season.
- Follow Football-Oranje on Twitter
After losing both Memphis Depay and Georginio Wijnaldum this summer, PSV went into the game with the aim of proving they are still the team to beat in the Eredivisie, and Phillip Cocu’s side did just that by sweeping Groningen aside.
After 25 minutes PSV took the lead through captain for the day Luuk de Jong, who headed a Santiago Arias cross past a rooted Sergio Padt. The striker nearly made it 2-0 soon after, but his shot from the edge of the box flew just wide of the post.
Cup winners Groningen caused problems for the PSV defence towards the end of the first half, but new signing Bryan Linssen fired straight at Jeroen Zoet with the goal gaping, before sending a fierce shot against the post.
After the break PSV dominated and deservedly found a second goal on 50 minutes when Adam Maher raced towards the box before firing the ball into the bottom corner. Fifteen minutes later De Jong sealed the win with an emphatic volley from close range after Jurgen Locadia’s shot was looped into his path.
It could have been worse for Groningen when PSV were awarded a late penalty for a trip on Santiago Arias, but Andres Guardado’s spot kick was kept out by Padt.
PSV lift their 10th Johan Cruijff Schaal, and looked in good form ahead of their title defence, which starts next Saturday against ADO Den Haag.
Follow
Follow @Footballoranje_ on Twitter
