PSV Eindhoven vs Excelsior Prediction & Match Preview – Saturday, 10 January

PSV Eindhoven vs Excelsior Prediction & Match Preview: These two Dutch sides face off in the Eredivisie this Saturday, 10 January. The match will be held at the iconic Philips Stadion, where PSV Eindhoven will look to make the most of their home advantage. Renowned for their strong performances on home soil, PSV Eindhoven aim to maintain their position near the top of the league table.

Excelsior, meanwhile, will be eager to cause an upset and secure valuable points in this challenging away fixture. With both teams preparing for this encounter, the stakes are high in the Eredivisie, and each side has its own ambitions for the season. This promises to be an intriguing battle, with PSV Eindhoven seeking to assert their dominance and Excelsior determined to prove their resilience.

PSV Eindhoven vs Excelsior: Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
PSV Eindhoven to Win & Over 2.5 Goals	1.5

Considering current form and statistical trends, our recommended betting tip is PSV Eindhoven to win and over 2.5 goals. PSV’s formidable home record and Excelsior’s defensive struggles on the road suggest a high-scoring match in favour of the home side.

• PSV Eindhoven have shown consistent scoring ability, with more than 2.5 goals in 76% of their matches this season.
• Excelsior have lost five of their last seven games, indicating poor form and defensive vulnerabilities.
• Despite injury concerns, PSV’s squad depth and previous head-to-head dominance provide confidence in their ability to secure a convincing win.

Betting Odds

PSV Eindhoven are clear favourites in this Eredivisie clash, and the betting odds reflect their dominant form. Excelsior are significant underdogs, with the odds suggesting a difficult evening for them at the Philips Stadion.

Betting Tip	Odds
PSV Eindhoven to win	1.13
Draw	8.67
Excelsior to win	14.19

For those looking to bet, the odds for a PSV win are short, so exploring markets such as PSV to win with a clean sheet or over 3.5 goals could offer better value. Excelsior’s odds are long, but a surprise draw could yield significant returns for risk-takers.

PSV Eindhoven: Analysis & Recent Performance

PSV Eindhoven have been performing at a high level recently, securing a top spot in the Eredivisie standings. Over their last five matches, they have achieved four wins and one loss, demonstrating strong form. Their recent 2-1 victory against FC Utrecht highlights their ability to secure crucial points away from home.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FC Utrecht	PSV Eindhoven	1 – 2 (Win)	Eredivisie	21 Dec 2025
PSV Eindhoven	GVVV Veenendaal	3 – 0 (Win)	KNVB Cup	16 Dec 2025
PSV Eindhoven	Heracles	4 – 3 (Win)	Eredivisie	13 Dec 2025
PSV Eindhoven	Atletico Madrid	2 – 3 (Loss)	Champions League	9 Dec 2025
SC Heerenveen	PSV Eindhoven	0 – 2 (Win)	Eredivisie	6 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

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PSV’s attacking unit has been prolific, averaging 2.60 goals per game in their last five matches, while their defence has kept two clean sheets. This balance has been key to their success. At home, they have won four of their last five matches, further solidifying their fortress-like presence at the Philips Stadion. Guus Til, their top scorer with 11 goals, continues to be a pivotal figure in their attack, contributing significantly to their total of 13 goals over the last five outings.

PSV Eindhoven: Suspensions & Injuries

PSV Eindhoven will face Excelsior with a few key players absent due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of Jerdy Schouten, who is suspended for one match due to a red card, will require tactical adjustments in midfield. His absence may see Joey Veerman take on more defensive responsibilities, or prompt a possible reshuffle with Guus Til dropping deeper to fill the gap.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Jerdy Schouten	Yellow/red card	1	Unknown

Injuries are also a concern for PSV Eindhoven, with Alassane Plea, Ruben van Bommel, and Myron Boadu all doubtful due to knee issues and an unspecified injury, respectively. Nick Olij’s groin injury sidelines him until mid-January, while Couhaib Driouech is expected back by mid-February. These absences could lead to increased reliance on backup options, potentially impacting PSV’s attacking and defensive strategies.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Alassane Plea	Knee injury	Doubtful
Ruben van Bommel	Knee injury	Doubtful
Myron Boadu	Unknown	Doubtful
Nick Olij	Groin injury	Mid January 2026
Couhaib Driouech	Unknown	Mid February 2026

The combination of these absences may prompt PSV Eindhoven to adjust their formation, possibly adopting a more conservative approach to maintain stability against Excelsior. This could also impact betting markets, as the team’s depth and adaptability are tested.

PSV Eindhoven: Key Players

PSV Eindhoven’s attacking prowess is led by their top scorer Guus Til, who has impressively netted 11 goals this season. Til’s ability to find space and exploit defensive weaknesses makes him a constant threat in the final third. His role as an attacking midfielder allows him to orchestrate play and create opportunities not only for himself but also for his teammates.

In the forward line, Ricardo Pepi and Ivan Perišić are expected to provide significant offensive support. Pepi’s agility and goal-scoring instincts, combined with Perišić’s experience and versatility, form a formidable partnership capable of troubling any defence. Meanwhile, in midfield, Joey Veerman’s vision and passing accuracy are key to linking play and maintaining possession.

Defensively, Sergiño Dest’s role will be crucial in both thwarting opposition attacks and supporting forward movements. His speed and technical skill offer a dual threat that can influence the game at both ends of the pitch.

Expected lineup for PSV Eindhoven

• Goalkeeper: Matej Kovář
• Defence: Sergiño Dest, Armando Obispo, Yarek Gasirowski, Mauro Júnior
• Midfield: Paul Wanner, Joey Veerman, Guus Til
• Forward: Dennis Man, Ivan Perišić, Ricardo Pepi

PSV Eindhoven: Tactics & Formation

PSV Eindhoven Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Ricardo Pepi
• Midfield Pivot: Guus Til and Joey Veerman
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession and high pressing.

PSV Eindhoven’s 4-2-3-1 formation facilitates a balanced approach, with Guus Til and Joey Veerman controlling the midfield. This setup allows PSV to dominate possession, as evidenced by their 57% possession in the recent win over FC Utrecht. The midfield duo is pivotal in transitioning the ball forward to creative outlets.

Defensively, PSV have shown resilience with two clean sheets in their last five matches. The backline, featuring players like Sergiño Dest and Mauro Júnior, is adept at maintaining structure while supporting offensive transitions. Matej Kovář, the goalkeeper, plays a crucial role in organising the defence.

Offensively, PSV’s strategy revolves around high pressing and quick ball recoveries. Ricardo Pepi, as the lone forward, is supported by wingers and attacking midfielders such as Dennis Man and Ivan Perišić, who provide width and creativity. This approach has been effective, with PSV averaging 2.60 goals per game in their last five outings.

Excelsior: Analysis & Recent Performance

Excelsior’s recent form has been mixed, with three wins and two losses in their last five matches. Their most recent victory was a 2-1 win over PEC Zwolle, showing their ability to edge out close encounters. However, their 0-2 defeat against FC Groningen highlighted some vulnerabilities, particularly in breaking down organised defences.

Home Side	Away Side	Outcome	League	Date
Excelsior	PEC Zwolle	2 – 1 (Win)	Eredivisie	20 Dec 2025
Excelsior	FC Groningen	0 – 2 (Loss)	Eredivisie	5 Dec 2025
Excelsior	NAC Breda	1 – 0 (Win)	Eredivisie	29 Nov 2025
Ajax	Excelsior	1 – 2 (Win)	Eredivisie	22 Nov 2025
Excelsior	Heracles	1 – 2 (Loss)	Eredivisie	8 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
In terms of goal production, Excelsior have averaged 1.20 goals per game over the last five matches, while conceding the same number, indicating a balance between attack and defence. They have kept just one clean sheet in this period, suggesting a need for greater defensive solidity. Away from home, their form has been less convincing, with only one win in their last five away fixtures, resulting in a win ratio of 20%. This highlights a potential area of concern when playing on the road.

Excelsior currently sit 12th in the Eredivisie with 19 points. Their position reflects a ‘mid-bottom’ rating, as they continue to navigate the challenges of the top flight. Despite this, key player Noah Naujoks has been instrumental, leading the team’s scoring efforts with five goals this season. Excelsior’s ability to perform under pressure and their resilience in tight games are strengths they will look to leverage going forward.

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Excelsior: Suspensions & Injuries

Excelsior face a challenging match against PSV Eindhoven with several key players potentially unavailable due to injuries. Zach Booth, Mathijs Tielemans, and Chris-Kévin Nadje are all listed as doubtful for the upcoming fixture. The midfield, in particular, may feel the impact of Tielemans’ absence, as he has been a central figure in their tactical setup. Without him, Excelsior may need to rely on less experienced players to fill the void, potentially affecting their midfield control and creativity.

The potential unavailability of these players could force coach Ruben den Uil to make tactical adjustments. With Tielemans and Nadje both doubtful, the team may need to adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive solidity rather than their usual attacking play. The lack of depth in the squad due to these injuries could also limit Excelsior’s ability to adapt during the match, making strategic substitutions more challenging.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Zach Booth	Unknown	Doubtful
Mathijs Tielemans	Unknown	Doubtful
Chris-Kévin Nadje	Unknown	Doubtful

From a betting perspective, the possible absence of these key players could influence the odds against Excelsior. The team’s chances of securing a positive result against a formidable opponent like PSV may decrease, leading to potential shifts in the betting markets. Bettors might see this as an opportunity to back PSV, given Excelsior’s weakened squad and the tactical adjustments they may need to make.

Excelsior: Key Players

Noah Naujoks, Excelsior’s top scorer with five goals, will be pivotal to their offensive strategy. As a midfielder, Naujoks is not only vital in scoring but also in orchestrating play from the centre of the pitch. His ability to transition from defence to attack quickly will be crucial against PSV Eindhoven. Additionally, his partnership with Lennard Hartjes in midfield could provide the necessary support to Excelsior’s forwards.

In the forward line, Derensili Sanches Fernandes and Jerolldino Bergraaf are expected to bring dynamism and creativity. Sanches Fernandes, known for his pace and dribbling ability, can stretch defences, while Bergraaf’s physical presence will be key in holding up play. At the back, the defensive duo of Rick Meissen and Casper Widell must be at their best to withstand PSV’s attacking prowess. Their defensive solidity will be critical in maintaining Excelsior’s shape and discipline.

Expected lineup for Excelsior

• Goalkeeper: Stijn van Gassel
• Defence: Ilias Bronkhorst, Rick Meissen, Casper Widell, Arthur Zagre
• Midfield: Noah Naujoks, Lennard Hartjes, Irakli Yegoian
• Forward: Derensili Sanches Fernandes, Jerolldino Bergraaf, Gyan de Regt

Excelsior: Tactics & Formation

Excelsior Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Likely 4-5-1
• Key Midfielder: Noah Naujoks
• Defensive Setup: Rick Meissen and Casper Widell at centre-back
• Recent Form: Three wins in last five matches
• Notable Strategy: Midfield dominance and counterattacking.

Excelsior’s tactical approach often revolves around a 4-5-1 formation, which allows them to flood the midfield and control possession. This setup is particularly effective in stifling opponent attacks while providing a platform for quick counterattacks. Key to their midfield strength is Noah Naujoks, who not only contributes with goals but also orchestrates play from deeper positions.

Defensively, Excelsior rely on the central partnership of Rick Meissen and Casper Widell. This duo provides a solid defensive backbone, crucial for dealing with aerial threats and maintaining shape during transitions. Despite conceding in recent matches, their organisation can often frustrate opposing forwards.

Offensively, Excelsior look to exploit spaces left by opponents, especially through the wings and quick transitions. With only one clean sheet in their last five matches, their focus will be on tightening their defensive setup while maintaining their attacking threat, especially through the pace and creativity of their midfield lineup.

PSV Eindhoven vs Excelsior: Head-to-Head Record

PSV Eindhoven have dominated the head-to-head record against Excelsior, boasting 24 wins out of 26 encounters, with the remaining three matches ending in draws. Excelsior have yet to secure a victory over PSV, making this a particularly one-sided fixture historically.

The last meeting between these two sides saw PSV come out on top with a 2-1 victory away at Excelsior in the Eredivisie. When it comes to matches at the Philips Stadion, PSV have been especially ruthless, with the last home fixture ending in a commanding 4-0 win for them.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Excelsior	PSV Eindhoven	1 – 2	Eredivisie	2025-09-27
PSV Eindhoven	Excelsior	3 – 3 (Extra time: 2 – 1)	KNVB Cup	2025-01-14
Excelsior	PSV Eindhoven	0 – 2	Eredivisie	2024-04-02
PSV Eindhoven	Excelsior	3 – 1	Eredivisie	2024-01-13
PSV Eindhoven	Excelsior	4 – 0	Eredivisie	2023-04-08