Bayer Leverkusen also enters this matchup on the back of a victory, having defeated FC Sankt Pauli 1-2 in the Bundesliga on Saturday.This win provided a positive morale boost for the German side ahead of thier European fixture.
Despite the win, leverkusen’s manager, Kasper Hjulmand, is facing injury concerns. Key players Robert Andrich, the team captain, and striker Patrik Schick were forced off the field prematurely during their league match.
Leverkusen’s victory was sealed by a goal from Ernest Poku. While Schick contributed to the second goal, his involvement was cut short when he sustained a thigh injury, necessitating his departure from the game with assistance. Captain Andrich also experienced discomfort, complaining of hamstring issues and remaining in the locker room. Hjulmand expressed uncertainty regarding the severity of these injuries, stating, “I don’t know what it is, I haven’t spoken to the doctors yet, hopefully we will know more on Monday.” Leverkusen will be without Martin Terrier and midfielder Exequiel Palacios for the match against PSV.
PSV’s Striker Concerns Mount
PSV’s manager, Peter bosz, is also contending with a growing injury list. Striker Ricardo Pepi was substituted in the 30th minute of their match against Excelsior on Saturday. bosz indicated that the change was precautionary after speaking with the American forward, but his availability for the Champions League tie remains uncertain.
Adding to PSV’s woes, Sergiño dest missed the Excelsior match due to a minor injury, and his readiness for the Leverkusen game is also in question. If Pepi is unable to play, Bosz will be without a recognized senior striker. Myron Boadu is nearing a return from a hamstring injury, but Alassane Pléa has been sidelined for an extended period with a knee problem. Ruben van Bommel also suffered a knee injury a week ago.
A Tough Start to the Champions League Campaign
PSV desperately needs a positive result on Wednesday evening against Bayer Leverkusen. Their Champions League journey began with a surprising 1-3 home defeat against Union Saint-Gilloise,a debutant in the competition. The Belgian champions, who remain undefeated in their domestic league, managed to overcome PSV in their opening European fixture, highlighting the significant challenge PSV faces in this “group of death.” The Dutch champions have a daunting schedule ahead, with upcoming fixtures against Napoli (home), Olympiacos (away), Liverpool (away), Atlético Madrid (home), newcastle United (away), and bayern Munich (home).
