Ivan Perisic has challenged PSV Eindhoven to finally break their Champions League curse as the Dutch champions prepare to host Shakhtar Donetsk at the Philips Stadion. The 37-year-old Croatian winger believes this season represents the perfect moment for PSV to translate their domestic dominance into European success, having claimed three consecutive Eredivisie titles.
PSV face a critical hurdle on matchday one. The club has suffered a troubling pattern of opening-game defeats across their last five Champions League campaigns, a streak they desperately want to end. This marks PSV's 20th appearance in the competition's main phase, a milestone that surpasses Ajax's Dutch record. Perisic stressed the importance of taking three points at home to avoid repeating the early group stage stumbles that undermined their European ambitions previously.
Perisic Backs Van Bommel Amid Criticism
Beyond tactics, Perisic moved swiftly to defend young forward Ruben van Bommel after recent media scrutiny surrounding a heavy tackle in domestic play. The experienced winger dismissed claims of malicious intent, characterizing the incident as a normal competitive challenge. "Ruben is a good kid who felt very guilty and sad," Perisic said. "We will always protect each other. Besides, that intensity is exactly what we must show in the Champions League." His backing underlines the unity within Peter Bosz's squad heading into European football.
History offers PSV encouragement. Shakhtar have struggled on Dutch soil, managing just one victory across five previous visits to Eredivisie clubs. More significantly, PSV recorded an unforgettable 3-2 comeback victory against the Ukrainian side in 2024 after trailing until the 86th minute, a psychological edge that could prove decisive. With 44 goals scored across their last 10 Champions League matches, PSV possess the attacking firepower to dominate this fixture.
Perisic's call to action is clear: PSV must capitalize on home advantage and establish early momentum. The winger's blend of defensive responsibility and attacking threat, honed through years at elite European clubs, embodies the mentality the Dutch champions need to finally make a sustained Champions League impact this season.
