Ten-man PSV Eindhoven held on to claim a 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid that keeps them in their Champions League last-16 tie.
Repeat offender Gaston Pereiro was sent off by referee Daniele Orsato for a clumsy challenge on Diego Godin midway through the second half but, despite Atletico's best efforts as the game wore on, PSV were able to hold on for a clean sheet and a result that gives them hope as the tie heads to the Vicente Calderon.
Only Bayern Munich have a defence as impenetrable as Atletico, and once again Diego Simeone’s side were tough to break down. Simeone was living every minute on the touchline – hardly the look of a man supposedly eyeing a Premier League switch – and made sure Atleti kept their impeccable shape.
However, going forward was a different matter. Simeone’s men have now scored just once in their last three matches in all competitions after struggling to find that killer pass in Eindhoven.
Luciano Vietto had the chance of the game in the opening stages, but saw his clipped effort cleared off the line. Fernando Torres came on in the second half, but was unable to improve the threat offered by the Rojiblancos.
And PSV were forced to hold on for the final quarter of this encounter after Pereiro was given his marching orders for a two bookable offences.
This tie remains wide open. PSV hitman Luuk de Jong will be back after suspension for the second leg, and an early goal from him could put the Eredivisie leaders in pole position.
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