The semifinal against Feyenoord is more than just another match for Sisca Folkertsma - it counts as a reunion with her old club. The midfielder is determined to win and sees the earlier league game at De Kuip as a foothold. "We have to deliver that same energy again," she said.
How are you feeling now in this final phase of the season?
"I feel good and proud to be part of this team. We are performing strongly and there is a nice balance in the selection. The mix of experienced and young players really works in our favor. Especially at the moments when it matters, that experience helps us win games over."
The previous cup game against AZ is a good example of that, don't you think?
"True, that was certainly not an easy match. We were behind for a long time, but still managed to pull it out to us. Of course you would prefer to win by more goals difference, but the most important thing is that we went through in the end."
The decisive weeks are approaching in both the cup and the league. How are you experiencing this final phase of the season?
"These are the most fun, but at the same time the most exciting weeks. I like that challenge. There is no more room to give up and every point counts. That creates extra excitement, but also just another twist in the games. When the first whistle blows, you go full steam ahead."
Tomorrow awaits the semifinal against Feyenoord, a not so unfamiliar club to you. How does that duel feel to you?
"This is now my second time playing against Feyenoord, but it remains a special match. The first time was extra special of course, but even now it feels special to face my old club. It is all quite recent, so I still know many players and staff members. That makes it fun to meet them on the field."
Earlier this season you overpowered Feyenoord at De Kuip. Can you take anything away from that game?
"The energy we had then was really good. Tomorrow we have to deliver that same energy together. That will give us a lot of advantages."
What do you expect from the game tomorrow?
"It's all or nothing for both teams, so that makes it extra exciting and challenging. I expect both clubs to go full steam ahead. It will be a real match full of fighting spirit."
You are someone with tremendous running ability and dueling power, but how do you personally see your role on the team?
"I see myself as a quiet force. I coach the girls around me and put them in the right place, while always working hard myself. If a mistake is made, I do everything I can to correct it. My role revolves around guarding the balance between offense and defense."
The semifinal between Feyenoord and PSV begins at 8 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN 1.