Feyenoord Stun AC Milan with Early Goal in Champions League Playoff
A goalkeeping error by Mike Maignan and a standout performance by Igor Paixão secure Feyenoord a 1-0 first-leg victory under interim coach Pascal Bosschaart.
- Feyenoord claimed a 1-0 win over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League knockout playoff, just two days after firing coach Brian Priske.
- Brazilian winger Igor Paixão scored the decisive goal in the third minute, capitalizing on a rare mistake by Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan in wet conditions.
- Paixão was a constant threat throughout the match, hitting the crossbar and nearly scoring from the halfway line, while also troubling Milan's defense with his skill and pace.
- Interim coach Pascal Bosschaart, promoted from Feyenoord's under-21 team, credited the team’s effort and tactical execution for the victory in a raucous De Kuip stadium.
- AC Milan struggled to find cohesion despite their January signings, with former Feyenoord striker Santiago Giménez failing to make an impact in his return to Rotterdam.