PSV Eindhoven - AC Milan: Match Report.

The first leg of the Champions League qualifier between PSV-AC Milan ended in an entertaining 1-1 draw with AC Milan being the happier side having scored a crucial Away goal.

Phillip Cocu's young side will feel extremely unlucky to not be going to San Siro with a lead having been the better side throughout the course of the match. PSV started very brightly as new signing Adam Maher almost scored from a deflection which went just wide.

Fluid, fast flowing and crisp passing football has become a hallmark of Cocu's team as they attacked with a very high tempo right from the start against the former Champions League winners. 

Against the run of play, Depay couldn't control a through ball and Abate capitalized, by making a delicious cross for El Shaarway who made no mistake it heading it in. PSV continued to dominate the proceeding, with the Adam Maher and Depay causing havoc to the Milan defense. Abbiati was the busier goalkeeper in the first half having made some smart saves to maintain the 1-0 lead. Milan defense looked rusty and disorganized, particularly as this was their first competitive match of their season. Milan dropped deep and began attacking on the counter and they almost succeeded as the enigmatic, Balotelli was denied by the post. Park, who made an emotional return to the Phillips Stadion today, also had a good half including some clever flicks and layoffs.

As the second half began, PSV looked tired which allowed Milan to create many chances but failing in the final third. Much of the credit to the centre back paring of Bruma and Rekik as they defended resolutely. Milan's midfield failed to cover the ground in the middle and gave a lot of space to PSV. No wonder, PSV took advantage as former Chelsea man, Bruma unleashed a powerful shot from distance but Abbiati couldn't hold on it and it fell in the right place for Matavz to head in. Matavz, who was having a quiet game so far, scored the equalizer at the hour mark and there was sense of more urgency in the PSV camp. PSV had their chances again as Karim Rekik, who is usually very good aerially, headed wide from almost 6 yards out. AC Milan also had their chances towards the end but Mexes and El Shaarawy couldn't convert them. A visibly tired PSV side can take a lot of heart from their performances but they know it will be very uphill task at the San Siro stadium.