Eredivisie 2017/18: Full Season Review

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the Eredivisie 2017/18 season, a year filled with thrilling matches, unexpected upsets, and some truly memorable moments. This review will cover everything from the title race to the relegation battles, shining a light on the key players and defining storylines of the campaign. So, buckle up and get ready for a nostalgic trip back to one of the most exciting seasons in Dutch football history!

The Title Race: PSV's Triumph

The Eredivisie 2017/18 season saw PSV Eindhoven emerge as the champions, reclaiming the title after a couple of seasons of Ajax dominance. Under the guidance of manager Phillip Cocu, PSV displayed remarkable consistency and tactical prowess throughout the year. Their success was built on a solid defense, a creative midfield, and a clinical attack, making them a formidable force in the league.

PSV's journey to the title wasn't without its challenges. Ajax, their main rivals, put up a strong fight, pushing them all the way to the final weeks of the season. However, PSV's ability to grind out results in tough matches and their strong home form proved to be decisive factors in their triumph. Key players like Hirving Lozano, Marco van Ginkel, and Luuk de Jong played pivotal roles, consistently delivering match-winning performances.

Hirving Lozano, in particular, was a revelation, dazzling fans with his pace, skill, and eye for goal. His arrival from Pachuca proved to be a masterstroke, as he quickly adapted to Dutch football and became one of the league's top scorers. Marco van Ginkel, on loan from Chelsea, provided crucial leadership and goals from midfield, while Luuk de Jong led the line effectively, using his aerial ability and finishing prowess to great effect. Together, these players formed the backbone of PSV's title-winning team.

Beyond the individual brilliance, PSV's success was also a testament to Cocu's tactical acumen and man-management skills. He instilled a strong sense of teamwork and discipline within the squad, creating a cohesive unit that was capable of overcoming any obstacle. His ability to rotate the squad effectively and make timely substitutions also proved crucial, ensuring that his players remained fresh and motivated throughout the long season. The 2017/18 season was a showcase of PSV's resilience, determination, and overall quality, cementing their place as the deserving champions of the Eredivisie.

Top Performers and Key Players

The Eredivisie 2017/18 season was brimming with exceptional talent, and several players stood out for their outstanding performances. Besides the aforementioned PSV stars, other players across the league made significant contributions to their respective teams. Let's take a closer look at some of the top performers:

• Alireza Jahanbakhsh (AZ Alkmaar): The Iranian winger had a sensational season, finishing as the league's top scorer with 21 goals. His pace, dribbling skills, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders, and he played a key role in AZ's impressive campaign.
• David Neres (Ajax): The Brazilian winger was a constant threat on the right wing for Ajax, showcasing his incredible dribbling ability and eye for a pass. He contributed with numerous goals and assists, establishing himself as one of the league's most exciting young talents.
• Hakim Ziyech (Ajax): The Moroccan midfielder was the creative heartbeat of the Ajax team, dictating the tempo of games with his excellent passing range and vision. He also chipped in with several goals, proving his importance to the team.
• Wout Weghorst (AZ Alkmaar): The towering striker was a handful for defenders throughout the season, using his physical presence and aerial ability to score crucial goals for AZ. His work rate and commitment were also commendable, making him a valuable asset to the team.

These players, among others, captivated fans with their skills and performances, contributing to the excitement and drama of the Eredivisie 2017/18 season. Their individual brilliance added another layer of intrigue to the league, making it a joy to watch for football fans around the world.

Memorable Matches and Moments

The Eredivisie 2017/18 season delivered a plethora of memorable matches and moments that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come. From thrillingDerbies to stunning individual goals, the season was full of excitement and drama.

One of the standout matches was the clash between Ajax and PSV at the Amsterdam Arena. The game was a pulsating encounter, with both teams going all out for the win. Ajax eventually emerged victorious, but the match was a testament to the quality and competitiveness of the Eredivisie. The return fixture in Eindhoven was equally captivating, ending in a 3-0 win for PSV, solidifying their title ambitions.

Another memorable moment was Alireza Jahanbakhsh's stunning hat-trick for AZ Alkmaar against Heracles Almelo. His goals were a testament to his skill and finishing ability, and they helped AZ secure an important victory. There were also some incredible individual goals scored throughout the season, including a stunning long-range strike by Hakim Ziyech and a brilliant solo effort by David Neres.

The season also had its fair share of dramatic late winners and controversial decisions, adding to the excitement and intrigue. These moments, both big and small, contributed to the overall narrative of the Eredivisie 2017/18 season, making it a truly unforgettable campaign.

Relegation Battle and European Qualification

At the other end of the table, the relegation battle was equally intense, with several teams fighting tooth and nail to avoid the drop. Roda JC Kerkrade and FC Twente eventually succumbed to relegation, while Sparta Rotterdam faced a relegation play-off.

The race for European qualification was also fiercely contested, with several teams vying for a spot in the Champions League and Europa League. Ajax, AZ Alkmaar, and Feyenoord secured European spots, joining PSV in representing the Netherlands in continental competitions. Their success was a testament to the strength and depth of the Eredivisie, showcasing the league's ability to produce competitive teams capable of challenging on the European stage.

Conclusion

The Eredivisie 2017/18 season was a captivating campaign filled with drama, excitement, and memorable moments. PSV's title triumph, the emergence of young talents like Hirving Lozano and David Neres, and the thrilling matches and moments all contributed to making it a season to remember. The league's competitiveness and attacking style of play continue to attract fans from around the world, solidifying its place as one of Europe's most entertaining leagues. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Dutch football, the Eredivisie always delivers a thrilling spectacle.