Igor Paixao’s early strike handed Feyenoord a narrow 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League play-off. The Dutch side, under interim coach Pascal Bosschaart, now carry a slim advantage into the return leg at San Siro next week.
Match Recap: How It Happened
First Half: Feyenoord Capitalize on Milan Error
Feyenoord wasted no time in making an impact, taking the lead in just the third minute of the match. Brazilian winger Igor Paixao attempted a speculative shot from a tight angle on the left flank. The effort, which skidded off the wet surface, should have been a routine save for Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan. However, the Frenchman misjudged the ball, allowing it to slip through his gloves and into the net.
This early goal gave Feyenoord momentum, with Paixao continuing to torment Milan’s defense. He almost doubled the lead before halftime, launching a dipping strike that rattled the crossbar, leaving Maignan stranded.
AC Milan struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Tijjani Reijnders coming closest by sending a shot just over the crossbar. Feyenoord, meanwhile, looked confident and unaffected by their recent managerial upheaval.
Second Half: Feyenoord Hold Firm
Milan tried to increase their attacking intensity after the break, but the Dutch side remained disciplined in defense. Feyenoord striker Julian Carranza came close to adding a second goal, firing just wide of the far post.
Despite their efforts, Milan never truly tested Feyenoord’s goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther, who secured a well-earned clean sheet. The Rossoneri looked disjointed in attack, unable to break down a resilient Feyenoord defense.
As the final whistle blew, the Dutch fans celebrated a vital home victory, knowing they would face a tougher challenge in the return leg at San Siro.
Key Talking Points
1. Feyenoord’s Dream Start Under Bosschaart
Pascal Bosschaart, recently appointed as interim coach following the sacking of Brian Priske, couldn’t have asked for a better start. His team looked sharp and fearless, and Paixao’s third-minute goal set the tone for a confident performance.
Interestingly, Paixao’s strike was Feyenoord’s fastest goal in a European Cup/Champions League match since 1971, matching Willem van Hanegem’s three-minute opener that year.
2. Milan’s Struggles in Champions League Away Games Continue
AC Milan’s away form in the Champions League knockout rounds has been poor in recent years. Their failure to win on the road now extends to 12 matches (D4 L7), with just three goals scored across their last 11 away games in the knockout stages.
If they want to progress, they will need a much-improved performance at home in the second leg.
3. Feyenoord’s Impressive Half-Time Record
Feyenoord have developed a remarkable habit of closing out games when leading at halftime. They have now gone 25 consecutive European matches without losing when ahead at the break (W22 D3). Only Lyon have a longer streak (48 games) in European history.
This resilience will give them confidence as they prepare for the decisive match in Milan.
What’s Next?
Second Leg at San Siro (Tuesday, February 20, 2024)
Feyenoord take their narrow lead to Italy, where Milan will look to overturn the deficit in front of their home crowd. Can the Dutch side complete the upset, or will Milan’s European pedigree shine through?
A thrilling battle awaits at San Siro.
