PSV Eindhoven vs Antwerp

Both sides fielded a mix of first-team squad members and academy prospects in their first pre-season outing of the summer. PSV controlled much of the first half, with their best chances coming from distance.

The breakthrough arrived in the 25th minute through Noah Fernandez. The 18-year-old Belgian midfielder, who joined PSV's pre-season camp as a youth player last season, collected the ball, beat multiple defenders with sharp stepovers, and curled a beautiful effort into the far corner. It was the kind of goal that ended his previous campaign — and started the new one.

PSV's first-half XI featured goalkeeper Nick Olij, defender Kieran Sildillia, and midfielder Noah Fernandez alongside youth products Boet Mulders, Shuryjano Cornecion, and Sami Bouhoudane. Antwerp's first-half XI included goalkeeper Nozawa, defenders Somers and Van Helden, and forward Godelaine.

After half-time, both sides made complete changes of XI — standard pre-season rotation. PSV introduced Lasso Pléa, who made his long-awaited return from ten months out injured. The forward's comeback was the emotional highlight of the afternoon.

But the reshuffled PSV defence lacked the first half's organisation. In the 62nd minute, Antwerp's Aaron Ibrahim — also 17 years old — collected the ball 25 yards out and unleashed a fierce drive that flew into the top corner beyond Tijn Smolenaars, who had recently been promoted to the first-team squad.

No further clear chances were created, and the match ended 1-1.

Noah Fernandez (PSV Eindhoven) — The 18-year-old Belgian was the standout player of the first half. His goal was a moment of individual brilliance: a mazy dribble followed by a precise curled finish. Having made 13 first-team appearances for PSV, Fernandez is expected to play a bigger role this season after his market value rose to an estimated €4m.

Aaron Ibrahim (Antwerp) — The 17-year-old midfielder announced himself in Antwerp's first pre-season friendly with a stunning equaliser from range — a composed, powerful finish that gave Smolenaars no chance.

Lasso Pléa (PSV Eindhoven) — The forward's return from a ten-month injury layoff after a year out was the story of the second half. He played 45 minutes in his first competitive action since his injury.

The match was a typical first pre-season friendly: both teams prioritised minutes and fitness over result. PSV's first-half superiority was clear — Fernandez's goal and several long-range efforts reflected the home side's dominance. Antwerp's second-half equaliser came against a completely different PSV XI, underlining the difficulty of reading too much into the balance of play. Both sides used completely different XIs in each half, making meaningful statistical comparison difficult.

For PSV, the game marked the start of preparations for the 2026-27 Eredivisie season, where they enter as reigning champions after winning the 2025-26 title with 84 points. The return of Pléa provides a significant attacking option, and Fernandez's early form suggests he could push for regular first-team minutes.

For Antwerp, the draw against the Dutch champions represents a solid start to their pre-season schedule. Ibrahim's equaliser will give the 17-year-old confidence as the Great Old build towards the new Jupiler Pro League campaign.

PSV's next fixture: TBC (pre-season continues)
Antwerp's next fixture: TBC (pre-season continues)

A pre-season friendly that delivered exactly what you'd expect from a first outing: rusty patterns, heavy rotation, and two moments of quality from teenagers who look ready for bigger roles. Fernandez's goal was the pick of the bunch, but Ibrahim's reply showed Antwerp have their own emerging talent. The return of Pléa after ten months was the afternoon's biggest positive for PSV.

Noah Fernandez (PSV Eindhoven) — His 25th-minute solo goal was the outstanding moment of the match and a statement of intent for the season ahead.