PSV Eindhoven and Israeli star Eran Zehavi failed to achieve the long-awaited makeover in the Champions League playoffs tonight (Tuesday), and they will be content with a season in the Europa League.
The Dutch finished 0-0 against Benfica, who qualified for the home stage thanks to a 1: 2 victory in the first game.
PSV came into the home game at Phillips Stadium lagging behind the game in Portugal, knowing they needed a makeover by two goals or more to qualify for the home stage.
A win by one goal will only suffice for overtime.
Already in the 32nd minute, the game took a positive turn for Zehavi and his teammates, when referee Shelef sent a second yellow card to Benfica Lucas and Risimo, who committed an offense with his elbow, leaving his team with ten players per hour of football.
Golden, Tonight, Getty Images
In the 62nd minute, Zehavi had a great opportunity to score, after receiving an excellent pass from Gakpo, but the Israeli's kick from a comfortable position in front of an empty goal only hit the crossbar and went out.
In overtime Zahavi got a free kick right on the verge of an extension, but hit the wall and failed to score a goal that would send the game into extra time.
The Dutch pressure continued until the end but the Portuguese defense repelled all attempts and managed to keep a clean sheet, which was worth a place in the home stage.
Verissimo removed, Getty Images