Feyenoord secured a crucial 1-0 win against AC Milan in their UEFA Champions League play-off first leg at De Kuip.
The Dutch side now takes a narrow advantage to San Siro, thanks to an early strike from Igor Paixao.
A Nightmare Start for Milan
AC Milan had a disastrous start to the match. Just three minutes in, Igor Paixao fired a shot from distance that should have been an easy save for Mike Maignan.
However, the Milan goalkeeper fumbled the ball, allowing it to slip into the net. The home fans erupted in celebration as Feyenoord took the lead early.
Milan responded by pushing forward, but their attacks lacked sharpness. Christian Pulisic had an early opportunity to equalize, but his shot went straight into the hands of Feyenoord’s goalkeeper, Timon Wellenreuther.
Rafael Leao also came close but was denied by strong defensive play from the Dutch side.
Feyenoord Controls the Game
Despite missing 12 key players due to injuries, Feyenoord dominated possession and dictated the pace of the match.
Their interim coach, Pascal Bosschaart, who took charge just days before the game, inspired his team to play with confidence.
Paixao continued to trouble Milan’s defense, cutting inside and forcing more saves from Maignan.
He even struck the crossbar with a powerful shot, nearly doubling the lead. Milan’s defense struggled to cope with Feyenoord’s attacking intensity.
Penalty Shouts and Missed Chances
Milan had a strong appeal for a penalty in the first half when Rafael Leao was clipped inside the box.
However, the referee waved away the protests, and VAR upheld the decision.
Minutes later, Feyenoord had a penalty appeal of their own, but once again, play continued.
Milan’s struggles continued as Joao Felix had a chance from outside the box, but his effort lacked power and was easily saved.
The Italian giants looked frustrated as they failed to break down Feyenoord’s solid defense.
Milan’s Second-Half Struggles
The second half saw more of the same, with Feyenoord pressing high and creating chances.
From a corner, Thomas Beelen almost scored with a header, but Maignan reacted well to keep it out.
Moments later, Paixao attempted an audacious long-range chip, which narrowly missed the target.
Milan coach Sergio Conceicao made changes, bringing on Fikayo Tomori and Samuel Chukwueze to add energy to the attack.
Chukwueze had a powerful shot from a crowded box, but Wellenreuther was equal to the challenge.
Milan Must Improve for Second Leg
As the game neared its end, Milan increased their attacking efforts, but their finishing remained poor.
Tammy Abraham and Francesco Camarda were introduced late, but they could not find the equalizer.
The final whistle blew, confirming Feyenoord’s 1-0 victory.
Milan now faces a tough task in the second leg at San Siro.
They must overturn the deficit and improve their performance if they want to progress further in the competition.
Stay Tuned with Bangbet News Tanzania
For more updates on the Champions League and other football matches, stay tuned to Bangbet News Tanzania.
Don’t forget to place your bets on Bangbet Tanzania for upcoming sports matches, including the English Premier League and other top leagues.
We also provide match predictions at Bangbet News Tanzania to help you make informed bets!
