De Mos analyzes how a tactical blunder swung the Eredivisie momentum before issuing a stern reality check regarding PSV’s lethal European opponents and the Japanese star driving their success.
Former Ajax and PSV coach Aad de Mos believes Michel Sánchez made a costly mistake by taking striker Tolu off during Saturday’s clash with PSV, arguing that the substitution helped change the momentum of the match.
Tolu had caused PSV problems during Ajax’s strongest spell before half-time, but his withdrawal coincided with the Amsterdam side losing momentum as PSV gradually took control. De Mos described the decision as a blunder and highlighted the contribution of PSV midfielder Kodai Sano.
De Mos Praises Sano’s All-Round Impact
De Mos was once again impressed by the Japanese midfielder, who he believes provides PSV with a rare combination of defensive work and quality in possession.
"That’s a combination you rarely see," said De Mos, as quoted by PSV Watcher Rik Elfrink of Eindhovens Dagblad. "Ajax had a good spell before halftime, with Tolu playing a key role."
Sano, meanwhile, continued to make an impression for Peter Bosz’s side.
"Sano was involved in many situations and, just like last week, showed he is a real asset to PSV," De Mos said.
The analyst also singled out PSV’s opening goal, praising the build-up and Ricardo Pepi’s positioning.
"I also thought the first goal was magnificent; Obispo’s beautiful long pass was a highlight, and Pepi was in the right spot again. He just keeps delivering there."
The result underlined PSV’s ability to turn a difficult contest in their favour, but De Mos believes their next challenge will demand another level of performance.
De Mos Warns PSV Over Shakhtar Test
PSV’s European campaign brings a potentially awkward assignment against Shakhtar Donetsk, and De Mos has warned against expecting an easy evening.
"Bear in mind, this is the team that knocked AZ out of Europe last season. Ruthlessly; with a few lethal counter-attacks; and thoroughly deserved. So, this certainly won’t be a walkover."
De Mos still expects PSV to come through, although he believes the match will provide an important test of whether Bosz’s team has learned from last season’s European disappointment.
"I do think PSV will manage a narrow victory, but now is the time to show they’ve learned from last year's match. Back then, Union proved too strong in a game PSV really should have won to advance."
Sparta Rotterdam Next
Before the focus turns fully towards Europe, PSV face Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday. De Mos expects Bosz’s team to claim another comfortable victory.
"I expect a big win for PSV there, because Sparta isn't quite at the level they were last season. They’ve lost a few players, as well as their goalkeeper (Joël Drommel, ed.)."
He also pointed to PSV’s own business in the transfer market, noting that the club signed Ayoni Santos from Sparta.
"On top of that, PSV signed a talented player from them in Ayoni Santos. I’m counting on an easy victory."
