PSV Eindhoven captain Mauro Júnior knows his side must deliver a strong performance when they face RB Leipzig in the second match of the UEFA Champions League league phase on Tuesday.

Peter Bosz’s team travel to Germany looking to collect valuable points in Europe, but they face a difficult test against a Leipzig side capable of causing problems with their attacking transitions.

Mauro expects a demanding contest but remains confident that PSV can secure a positive result if they execute their game plan.

“I think it’s going to be a very tough match. They have a very good team. They’re very good at transitioning on the attack. So we have to prevent that,” the Brazilian said.

“Of course, they have a lot of strengths, but I’m confident enough. I think we can get a good result here.”

Mauro also discussed his versatility after playing in midfield in PSV’s most recent match, despite usually operating as a left-back.

The Brazilian has featured in both positions in recent years and understands that adapting to the team's needs is part of his responsibility.

“In my opinion, it’s never easy to switch from left-back to midfield, but in recent years I’ve played both positions,” he explained.

“I prefer playing left-back. If the coach and the team need me as a midfielder, then I have to step up.”

With PSV aiming to progress in the Champions League, Mauro stressed the importance of Tuesday’s fixture and the points on offer.

“The goal is to advance in the UEFA Champions League. Tomorrow’s match is an important one for us to earn points,” he said.

Bosz provided an update on his squad ahead of the trip to Leipzig, confirming that no injured players were expected to return. However, Mikkel Bro Hansen is now available, giving PSV one additional option.

“I don’t think any of the injured players have returned. We were, however, able to make one change to the roster because Bro Hansen is now available,” the PSV manager said.

Bosz also expects a strong atmosphere at the Red Bull Arena but believes his players are accustomed to the demands of high-level football.

“For most players, playing in large stadiums in front of big crowds is nothing new. They’re used to matches in the Champions League, to big games in our own league, and to international matches,” he explained.

He acknowledged that the occasion could be particularly memorable for PSV’s younger players, adding that a great atmosphere was part of what made the Champions League special.

Asked whether the meeting between two coaches who favour attacking football would produce an open contest, Bosz made it clear that PSV would not abandon their principles.

“It’ll be fire with fire. We have our own style of play and our own approach to the game. We’ll stick to that,” he said.

Bosz has studied Leipzig ahead of the fixture and believes their approach has evolved. Rather than relying as heavily on direct football, the German side are now looking to build attacks from the back.

“I’ve watched several of Leipzig’s matches by now and have gotten a sense of how they play. However, I don’t want to just say that I know the coach and know exactly how he thinks,” Bosz explained.

“What I’m seeing now is that Leipzig is playing a little differently than before. They’re trying to build up more from the back and create plays from there. It’s less direct than it used to be.”

PSV will therefore need to balance their attacking intentions with defensive discipline, particularly when Leipzig look to transition quickly. As Mauro made clear, the objective remains for PSV to secure the points needed to strengthen their bid to progress in the Champions League.