PSV Eindhoven's unchallenged dominance takes away some of the usual tension before big Dutch derbies, although Feyenoord are in a disadvantageous position and another loss to the champions will likely lead to Ajax overtaking them in the standings.
PSV experienced the most challenging two weeks of their otherwise near-perfect season, failing to win any of their last three matches. The two losses in the Champions League led to the team's elimination, and the draw with NAC Breda was only their second in 20 rounds (W17, L1).
The failure in Europe is disappointing, and now PSV will have to settle for the domestic title, which looks almost won at the end of January.
The Club on the Meuse will also have to settle for playing on the domestic stage after completely failing in the Europa League.
Their poor form as visitors is at the root of all their problems, with Feyenoord winning only three of their last 10 away games in all competitions.
That is why it is quite difficult to expect anything different from Sunday's result, with PSV likely to increase their lead.
How the bookies view it: One-sided with a hidden chance
Bookmakers are not giving the visitors much of a chance, although it should be noted that the odds are not bad at all and still hold value.
Currently, PSV Eindhoven are available at 3/4, which is a rare occurrence in their home games. The draw is priced at 31/10, while Feyenoord are available at 16/5.
When a price looks too good to ignore, that’s value. Learn how to identify it with our Value Betting guide.
Recent head-to-head: Most competitive rivalry in Europe
There is hardly a more evenly matched rivalry in terms of history, both in the Netherlands and in European football as a whole. This will be the 170th match between PSV and Feyenoord. So far, both teams have exactly 65 wins, with 39 games ending in draws.
However, it should be noted that Feyenoord's strong years are behind them, and the Farmers have been the dominant team in recent head-to-head matches. PSV have won the last four, and the visitors' last league victory dates back to 2021.
Players to watch: Veerman is the whole package
Ayase Ueda hasn’t scored in Feyenoord’s last five Eredivisie fixtures and still has 18 goals in 19 rounds. This should give you an idea of how capable he really is when in form.
On the home end, we have to highlight Joey Veerman, who is close to improving his best season stats, and we are barely halfway through the season. The 27-year-old has contributed eight goals and 10 assists in 19 fixtures.
Probable line-ups
PSV Eindhoven: Kovar, Junior, Obispo, Schouten, Dest, Perisic, Veerman, Wanner, Man, Saibari, Til
Feyenoord: Wellenreuther, Sliti, Bos, Kraaijeveld, Lotomba, Valente, Targhalline, Borges, Larin, Moussa, Tengstedt
Anything else catch the eye?
Unfortunately for the visitors, there are way too many reasons to back the hosts in this matchup. Not only are PSV Eindhoven exceptional this season, but Feyenoord are having one of the worst injury crises we’ve seen this season.
As far as we know, Robin van Persie will have to manage without at least a dozen players, which is a disaster. Also, PSV scored 2+ goals in all five most recent home games against Feyenoord, so we will back this market too.
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