AZ, PSV reach Dutch Cup Final

The Hague, Feb 28 (IANS)

Georginio Wijnaldum of PSV, Jurgen Locadia of PSV, Atiba Hutchinson of PSV during the Dutch Cup match between PEC Zwolle and PSV Eindhoven at the IJsseldelta Stadium on February 27, 2013

PSV Eindhoven and AZ Alkmaar qualified for the final of the Dutch Cup, KNVB Beker, by beating PEC Zwolle and Ajax by identical 3-0 respectively.

Ajax dominated the first half against AZ in Amsterdam on Wednesday but were not able to create many chances. Defender Niklas Moisander was closest to a goal by hitting the post after a free-kick by Lasse Schone, reports Xinhua.

In the second half, Ajax continued pressing AZ backwards but the home-team squandered some chances by hitting too high or wide. AZ waited for their chance and that chance came in the 74th minute.

After bad defending by Ajax, Adam Maher crossed from the backline and Jozy Altidore headed in. In the final minutes Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Altidore made it 3-0.

PSV had no difficulties at PEC Zwolle. Due to the absence of the suspended Jeremain Lens and ailing Tim Matavz, Jurgen Locadia had a starting place for PSV. The 19-year-old striker impressed by scoring three goals in the 16th, 34th and the 85th minute.

“We won the Super Cup, made it to the Cup final and are still title contenders. It could be worse,” said coach Dick Advocaat.

The final will be played May 9 in Rotterdam. Last year PSV won the final by beating Heracles Almelo 3-0.