PSV have reached the final of the Otten Innovation Cup tournament. England's Chelsea were beaten 3-1.
PSV defender Brent Jonkers is happy to have reached the final: 'We knew Chelsea were a very good side with a lot of quality, but we also know what we're capable of. So we were confident of a good result.'
Solid defence
Defensively, PSV had things well in order: 'We knew Chelsea were very strong going forward and could also be very dangerous on the counter. We had to deal with that and make sure the striker didn't get on the ball. We did that well.' PSV pressed high on Chelsea, which regularly left the defence in 1-v-1 situations. For Jonkers that isn't a huge problem: 'You do have to be fully concentrated. But it's also true that if you do this well, you can win the ball back quickly and keep the pressure on the opponent. So in that respect it's a bit of give and take.'
A higher level
Jonkers also regularly joins up with Jong PSV. He says of this: 'You do notice that the level at Jong PSV is even higher. You also see that opponents there often only need one chance — you saw that yesterday too. But I'm also glad to be taking part here.'
Fine goals
PSV scored three fine goals. He thought the first, from Soudais El Hadj Dani, was the best of the three: 'They were all lovely goals, but that was a really good long-range shot. He really deserves it too, so I'm very happy for him.'
Palmeiras again
Tomorrow a clash with Palmeiras awaits once more. PSV lost 3-1 to the Brazilians in the final group match. Jonkers knows what has to improve tomorrow: 'Defensively it has to be better tomorrow. We need to keep the centre tighter and our covering also has to be better tomorrow. Our search for depth in that match can also be improved.'
The match against Palmeiras is scheduled for tomorrow at 14:00. Then we'll see which of the two sides gets to lift the Otten Innovation Cup.