The UEFA Champions League 2025 round of 16 features a thrilling clash between PSV and Arsenal at the PSV Stadion in Eindhoven on 4 March. Both teams have impressive European pedigrees, with PSV being the 1988 European Cup winners and Arsenal reaching the Champions League final in 2006. Here’s everything you need to know about the match, including where to watch, predicted line-ups, team news, form guides, and insights from the coaches.
Match at a Glance
- When: 4 March (21:00 CET)
- Where: PSV Stadion, Eindhoven
- What: UEFA Champions League 2025 Round of 16 – First Leg
- Who: PSV (1988 European Cup winners) vs Arsenal (2006 Champions League runners-up)
Where to Watch PSV vs Arsenal
Catch all the action live on UEFA’s official broadcasting partners and popular streaming platforms. Check your local listings for broadcast details.
Head-to-Head: Key Insights
- Previous Encounters: Arsenal defeated PSV 4-0 at home last season but were held to a 1-1 draw at PSV Stadion on Matchday 6.
- Recent Form Against English Teams: PSV’s 3-2 win against Liverpool on Matchday 8 serves as a confidence booster.
- Arsenal’s European Journey: The Gunners are back in the knockout phase for the second consecutive season after ending a six-year Champions League absence.
Predicted Line-Ups
PSV (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Benítez
- Defenders: Ledezma, Flamingo, Boscagli, Mauro Júnior
- Midfielders: Veerman, Saibari, Schouten
- Forwards: Perišić, De Jong, Lang
Arsenal (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Raya
- Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori
- Midfielders: Ødegaard, Rice, Jorginho
- Forwards: Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard
Team News
PSV:
- Injury Concerns: No major injuries reported. Coach Peter Bosz is expected to stick with the attacking trio of Perišić, De Jong, and Lang.
- Key Player: Luuk de Jong – with his aerial threat and experience, De Jong is vital for PSV’s attack.
Arsenal:
- Injury Concerns: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus are sidelined, which might impact Arsenal’s attacking options.
- Key Player: Martin Ødegaard – his creativity and passing range will be crucial for breaking down PSV’s defense.
Form Guide
PSV: LLWDLD
- Latest Result: 2-3 vs Go Ahead Eagles (First League, 01/03)
- Strength: Attacking prowess, especially at home.
- Weakness: Defensive lapses, as seen in their latest league defeat.
Arsenal: DLWLWW
- Latest Result: 0-0 vs Nottingham Forest (Premier League, 26/02)
- Strength: Defensive organization and ball control.
- Weakness: Lack of goals in recent matches due to injuries.
Coaches’ Views
Peter Bosz, PSV Coach:
“I’m not going to change my playing style. We need to be better defensively, but we’ll stick to our attacking philosophy. Against teams like Arsenal, moments decide the game. We’ve shown we can compete at this level by beating Juventus and Liverpool.”
- Tactical Focus: High pressing and quick transitions to exploit Arsenal’s high defensive line.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Coach:
“PSV is a team that has eliminated Juventus and defeated Liverpool. We have to respect that. Our focus is on exploiting their weaknesses while playing our game. Dominating possession and controlling the midfield will be key to getting a good result.”
- Tactical Focus: Controlled possession and exploiting spaces between PSV’s defensive lines.
Key Battles to Watch
- Luuk de Jong vs William Saliba: Aerial duels and physical battles will define this clash.
- Ødegaard vs Veerman: A midfield contest of creativity and tactical intelligence.
- Perišić vs Timber: A test of defensive solidity for Timber against the experienced Croatian winger.
Key Stats
- PSV at Home: Unbeaten in their last 5 home games in the Champions League (W4 D1).
- Arsenal’s Away Record: Unbeaten in 4 consecutive away games in Europe (W2 D2).
- Head-to-Head in UEFA Competitions: Arsenal leads with 4 wins, 4 draws, and 2 losses against PSV.
Did You Know?
- PSV’s European Pedigree: PSV won the European Cup in 1988, defeating Benfica in the final.
- Arsenal’s Best Run: The Gunners reached the Champions League final in 2006 but lost to Barcelona.
- PSV Stadion: Known for its electric atmosphere, making it a challenging venue for visiting teams.
Prediction
With home advantage and a strong attacking lineup, PSV will look to secure a lead. However, Arsenal’s defensive organization and experience could see them leave Eindhoven with a valuable result.
- Predicted Score: PSV 1-1 Arsenal
Conclusion
The UEFA Champions League 2025 round of 16 clash between PSV and Arsenal is set to be a tactical battle between two attacking teams. With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, this first leg in Eindhoven is crucial for both sides. Stay tuned for more UEFA Champions League news, updates, and in-depth analysis!
