In a captivating first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, Borussia Dortmund and PSV Eindhoven finished locked at 1-1 on Tuesday night at the Philips Stadion. Donyell Malen, facing his former team, scored a sensational goal, only for Luuk de Jong to equalize with a penalty in the second half, ensuring the tie remains open ahead of the return match in Dortmund.
Dutch forward Malen, who spent four successful seasons with PSV before his transfer to the Bundesliga in 2021, demonstrated his talent 24 minutes into the game. Despite being tightly marked by PSV defenders, Malen unleashed a powerful shot from a narrow angle, which, after a slight deflection, beat goalkeeper Walter Benitez, ricocheting in off the crossbar. This stunning effort gave Dortmund the lead and highlighted Malen’s ability to make a significant impact against his former club.
PSV, however, looked determined as they created several chances. They looked to extend their impressive 31-game unbeaten streak at home across all competitions. Their efforts were rewarded early in the second half when Dortmund’s Mats Hummels was penalized for a challenge on Malik Tillman.
The penalty decision, confirmed by VAR despite Hummels touching the ball before making contact with Tillman, allowed De Jong to step up and score, drawing the game level. De Jong’s goal was not just crucial for the match but also marked a personal achievement as he surpassed Ruud van Nistelrooy to become PSV’s top scorer in the Champions League with nine goals.
The match itself was a tactical affair with both teams showing caution, resulting in few clear-cut opportunities. Malik Tillman had a notable chance to open the scoring for Dortmund but his effort was off target, a moment that could have changed the complexion of the game early on.
This tie was significant for PSV, marking their first Champions League knockout appearance in eight seasons. The team is eager to progress beyond the last-16 for the first time since the 2006-07 campaign, adding an extra layer of anticipation for the second leg.
As the teams prepare for the decisive return leg on March 13 in Dortmund, the outcome remains highly uncertain. Dortmund’s home advantage and PSV’s resilience and unbeaten home record set the stage for an enthralling conclusion to this closely contested tie. Both teams will be keen to secure their place in the quarter-finals, promising a match filled with top-class football.
