Mbangula Shines as Juventus Secures Late Win Against PSV in First Leg of Playoff Showdown

A last-minute goal from Samuel Mbangula (21) has given Juventus a slender advantage heading into the second leg at Philips Stadion next week, as PSV Eindhoven showcased their potential but ultimately fell short in a thrilling UEFA Champions League playoff clash.

The home side started with plenty of energy but lacked clear-cut opportunities in the opening exchanges. Timothy Weah and Randal Kolo Muani connected well but found it challenging to breach the organised PSV defence.

Interestingly, it was the visitors who crafted the first real chance. Luuk de Jong directed a deep corner back across the goal, compelling the Juventus defence to scramble and deny Ryan Flamingo a clear sight at goal from just a few yards out.

La Vecchia Signora unveiled their youngest ever starting line-up in a Champions League knockout fixture, but it was their more seasoned players who led the charge, breaking the deadlock just after the half-hour mark.

Federico Gatti exhibited impressive tenacity, regaining possession twice in the attacking third until the ball found its way to Weston McKennie on the perimeter of the box. The USA international unleashed a thunderous shot that left Walter Benitez with no chance.

PSV’s formidable league campaign had been supported by exceptional home performances, but their early showing in the second half gave little indication that things would change for their away form.

Flamingo’s acrobatic header almost resulted in a second goal, as he denied half-time substitute Mbangula from extending the lead following a stunning piece of wing play from Weah. However, just five minutes later, Ivan Perisic found the net with a surprise equaliser.

A week ahead of the Derby d’Italia, the former Inter player expertly controlled a deep cross, shifting the ball onto his left foot and firing a low shot into the bottom corner past Michele Di Gregorio.

Perisic’s goal seemed to disrupt the rhythm of Thiago Motta’s team, whose play became increasingly disjointed, riddled with uncharacteristic errors.

In response to the shift in momentum, PSV manager Peter Bosz brought on Johan Bakayoko and Guus Til, searching for a breakthrough.

Ironically, it was two substitutes from Juventus who would ultimately link up to secure a first-leg lead, as Francisco Conceicao’s shot was parried directly into the path of Mbangula, who made no mistake from close range.