Feyenoord claimed a 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League knockout phase play-offs on Wednesday in Rotterdam. The decisive goal came early in the third minute, courtesy of Igor Paixao, who capitalized on a mistake from Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

AC Milan's Theo Hernandez (L) competes during the UEFA Champions League Knockout phase play-off 1st leg football match between Feyenoord and AC Milan in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Feb. 12, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

The match marked Feyenoord's first since parting ways with head coach Brian Priske on Monday, a decision prompted by "inconsistent results and a lack of chemistry," according to the club. Youth coach Pascal Bosschaart stepped in as interim head coach, guiding the team to a crucial win.

Milan had an early chance to take the lead when Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders missed a golden opportunity. However, Feyenoord responded quickly, with Paixao's low shot slipping through Maignan's hands on the wet, slippery pitch, sending the ball into the net for the opening goal.

Despite Milan's efforts, including dangerous attacks from Rafael Leao, Joao Felix and Santiago Gimenez, Feyenoord held firm in defense. They also had chances to extend their lead, with Paixao hitting the crossbar. For Milan's Gimenez, it was a return to Rotterdam just months after his 35 million euro transfer from Feyenoord in January.

Milan now faces a challenging task in the return leg, set for next Tuesday, February 18, in Milan, as they seek to overturn the deficit. 

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