PSV Women will play the second leg against HB Køge tomorrow. At stake in the match is a spot in the group stage of the UEFA Women’s Champions League. The first match in Eindhoven ended in a 0-1 loss, but summer signing Julia Hickelsberger is traveling to Denmark full of confidence for the decisive match.
Julia joined the team this summer from Galatasaray. Upon her arrival, she described herself as a fast winger—someone who can keep going. The Austrian international proved this to be true during preseason, where she broke all records in a fitness test. Conversely, PSV proved that Eindhoven was the right choice for her. “I’ve been welcomed incredibly well; we have a good team and can really achieve something together.”
A Minor Setback
Her arrival in Eindhoven was accompanied by a minor setback, as Julia had to leave the field injured during the Super Cup match (3-0). She returned in time for the first league match, against PEC Zwolle (0-2), in which she also scored. “Unfortunately, I had to miss a few matches, but since the PEC [Zwolle] game, I’ve gotten back on track and, luckily, scored a goal right away, haha.”
Creating More
Julia started in the starting lineup for the home match against HB Køge. Despite the loss, the Austrian is very confident of a positive outcome in Denmark. “We were the stronger team in Eindhoven. It’s now up to us to prove that through the result, but we’re very confident we can do that.”
The winger also knows where PSV needs to improve to impose its will. “We need to do more with our possession—especially create more chances. We’re playing with a lot of new players, so our coordination hasn’t always been optimal. It’s getting better all the time. The better our coordination, the faster we can break through the lines. That’s what needs to happen tomorrow, too. In any case, I’m really looking forward to it and can’t wait.”