PSV Eindhoven Remain UCL Knockout Hopeful After Embarrassing R16 First-Leg Defeat To Arsenal

PSV Eindhoven has never passed the Champions League round of 16 since 2006/07, apparently, that fate is to remain following the Dutch side's embarrassing loss to Arsenal in the first-leg encounter. It was a complete takedown as the Gunners thrashed them 7-1 at home on Tuesday night. It was a star night for Martin Odegaard who contributed a brace to the eight-goal thriller. 

Coming from behind to beat Liverpool 3-2 in Eindhoven earlier this season, PSV is said to be intimidated by English opposition. They are losing ground in the Eredivisie title race with a fifth consecutive winless game. PSV swiftly turned their attention to the UCL round 16 after eliminating Juventus in the play-off round. Unfortunately, the massive loss against Arsenal has set them back. 

Uninspiring PSV’s defeat began to take shape from the first half with a three-goal deficit. Though they managed to pull one before halftime, Arsenal returned to add four more goals with Odegaard scoring a brace in that period. 

The goals were historical for the Gunners, who became the first team to score 7+ goals in a single game in the UCL history. Despite their consistent early eliminations, Arsenal are on the cusp of posting more straight wins for the first time since reaching the final in 2005/06. 

Arsenal's hope of lifting the Champions League trophy may still be in view, however, they traveled on the road to the Dutch side with a meager historic win rate and secured a resounding victory that gave them a good headstart to the second leg.