Donyell Malen was once again on the scoresheet as PSV Eindhoven drew 1-1 with title rivals Ajax in the Philips Stadion.
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PSV boss Mark van Bommel made one change from the side that defeated Sporting Club de Portugal on Thursday with Michal Sadilek replacing Olivier Boscagli at left-back. Erik ten Hag chose the same eleven that defeated Lille last Tuesday with Donny van de Beek only fit enough for the bench.
Ajax had the better possession as PSV Eindhoven looked to threaten on the counter attack. Mohamed Ihattaren was denied by Andre Onana while Donyell Malen fired off target.
The best chances of the first-half fell to Ajax with Quincy Promes somehow firing wide from point blank range. Dusan Tadic was then denied by Jeroen Zoet on the stroke of half-time.
Early in the second half, Ihattaren made a big impression for PSV and he saw a free-kick just tipped over by Onana.
In the 63rd minute, Ajax took the lead when Sergino Dest played in Tadic, who then found Promes to fired into the right corner.
Ihattaren continued to shine after the opener but after a great pass, Bruma’s strike hit the post. Donny van de Beek then entered the field for Ajax in place of David Neres, while Van Bommel turned to Cody Gakpo.
PSV’s change made an instant impact with the forward setting Malen through on goal in the 77th minute and the former Ajax striker made no mistake with his finish to make it 1-1.
Neither side could find the winning goal before the end and that means they both remain locked on 14 points. Ajax stay top on goal difference with PSV second.
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Decent match to watch. Thought Ajax was slightly the better side in the first half – Tadic in particular was quite good. But it was pretty even in the 2nd half, and a fair result in the end.
Malen is in amazing form….winner against Germany, 5 goal match, scores in Europe, and scores in De Topper….all in 2 weeks! The way he ghosted past Martinez for the equalizer today was excellent. He’s got a bright future ahead of him.
Ajax probably the happier side though, managing to avoid defeat in what on paper was undoubtedly their toughest league match of the season.