Feyenoord celebrated a thrilling victory over AC Milan, defeating the Italian giants 1-0 in the first leg of their Champions League playoff on Wednesday night. This impressive win was marked by Brazilian winger Igor Paixão's early strike, capitalizing on a glaring error from AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Despite the tumultuous backdrop of having fired their head coach, Brian Priske, just days earlier, Feyenoord took to the field at their iconic De Kuip stadium filled with determination. With interim coach Pascal Bosschaart at the helm, the team quickly set the tone for the match. Just three minutes in, Paixão cut inside from the left and unleashed a low shot, which Maignan failed to handle cleanly. The ball slipped through his fingers and rolled home, sending the home crowd wild.
"These evenings are why we do this," exclaimed Feyenoord captain Quinten Timber, who was overjoyed by the team's spirited performance. This early goal not only delighted fans but also marked the fastest Feyenoord goal scored in European competition since September 1971.
Feyenoord's early dominance was palpable, as they controlled the pace and rhythm of the game. Despite several opportunities, including Tijjani Reijnders' shot from the edge of the area, the visiting Milan side struggled to find their footing. It became evident throughout the first half how much Feyenoord had adapted to the challenging wet conditions of the pitch.
Paixão almost doubled the lead just before halftime with another powerful effort, but his dipping shot struck the crossbar, which showcased his growing confidence and dangerous presence on the pitch.
The halftime break found Feyenoord leading 1-0, and they emerged possibly more invigorated than ever. Although the second half saw more contention, AC Milan failed to establish any definitive rhythm to threaten Feyenoord seriously. Gimenez, who had made waves after his transfer to Milan just days prior, remained largely anonymous, struggling against the resolute Feyenoord defense.
AC Milan's attacking efforts were epitomized by sporadic bursts from João Felix and Rafael Leão, yet even they couldn't come close to breaking through Feyenoord's organized defense. Meanwhile, Feyenoord continued to press, with chances from substitutes like Julián Carranza, who narrowly missed extending the lead.
Tijjani Reijnders later commented on the match's disappointing outcome for Milan, admitting, "Both in attack and defence, it was not enough and then you simply come up short." It was clear the seven-time European champions could not match the sheer intensity and commitment exhibited by the hosts.
Paixão's contribution did not go unnoticed; apart from his early goal, he nearly pulled off a brilliant long-range strike, attempting to lob Maignan when he was caught off his line. This audacity reinvigorated the De Kuip crowd and underscored Feyenoord's attacking prowess.
The only downside for the home team came when captain Timber limped off the pitch with what appeared to be a knee injury, raising concerns for Feyenoord as they prepare for the second leg of this playoff against AC Milan next week.
Looking ahead, Feyenoord takes this slender advantage back to San Siro, where they will need to maintain their focus and intensity to secure passage to the next stage of the Champions League. This victory could mark the beginning of something special for the Dutch side, as Timber noted, "There's a reason we're where we are now, because we've played many good matches in the Champions League, and we did it again tonight."
With the return leg looming, questions remain whether AC Milan can regroup and launch an effective attack to overturn the one-goal deficit. Meanwhile, Feyenoord will be eager to continue their impressive run, spurred on by the passionate support of their home crowd and the confidence stemming from this standout performance.