Milan vs Feyenoord: Feyenoord Stuns Milan to Secure Champions League Knockout Spot
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AC Milan’s Champions League journey came to an abrupt end as Feyenoord secured a historic last-16 berth with a hard-fought 1-1 draw at San Siro. The result gave the Dutch club a 2-1 aggregate win, marking their first advancement to the knockout stage in 25 years.
FULL-TIME: 🇮🇹 AC Milan 1-1 Feyenoord 🇳🇱 (1-2 agg)
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) February 18, 2025
⚽️ S. Giménez
⚽️ J. Carranza
A shocking exit for the Rossoneri as Feyenoord stun Milan to advance! 🚀🏆#Feyenoord #ACMilan #ChampionsLeague #UCL#MilanFeyenoord pic.twitter.com/mAbKbfsTjy
Early Advantage for Milan
The match started with high intensity, as Milan struck early to fuel their comeback hopes. Just a minute into the game, Santiago Giménez, Milan’s recent acquisition, found the net against his former club. This goal leveled the aggregate score and sent the San Siro crowd into a frenzy, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive contest.
Turning Point: Theo Hernandez’s Red Card
The match took a decisive turn in the 52nd minute when Milan’s Theo Hernandez received a second yellow card for simulation. His dismissal reduced the Italian giants to ten men, shifting the momentum in favor of Feyenoord. With a numerical advantage, the Dutch side took control, patiently waiting for their opportunity to strike.
Carranza’s Decisive Header Seals the Win
Feyenoord’s persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when substitute Julian Carranza made an immediate impact. Meeting a pinpoint cross from Hugo Bueno, Carranza executed a powerful header past Milan’s goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. This goal secured Feyenoord’s aggregate lead, a position they held until the final whistle, sealing their place in the knockout stage.
Historical Significance for Feyenoord
This victory carries deep historical meaning for Feyenoord. It rekindles memories of their famous European Cup triumph at San Siro in 1970. By reaching the Champions League last 16 after a quarter-century, Feyenoord signals their revival as a formidable force in European football.
Post-Match Reactions
The aftermath of Milan vs Feyenoord saw contrasting emotions from both sides. Milan defender Kyle Walker voiced his frustration:
“The way we were controlling the game in the first half and at the beginning of the second, there was only one team on the pitch. Then the referee made his decision, and the game changed.”
Meanwhile, Feyenoord hero Julian Carranza shared his delight:
“I didn’t feel great; it was something unforgettable to come in and score.”
Looking Ahead: Feyenoord’s Next Challenge
With Feyenoord advancing, attention now shifts to the next round, where they could face either Inter Milan or Arsenal. The draw is set for Friday, and excitement is building over who they will challenge next.
As for AC Milan, they must now turn their focus to their domestic campaign, aiming to recover from this setback and push for success in Serie A.
Feyenoord’s triumph in Milan vs Feyenoord is a testament to their growth and determination, proving that they are once again a force to be reckoned with in European football.
Milan vs Feyenoord (FAQs)
How did Feyenoord qualify for the Champions League last 16?
Feyenoord advanced to the knockout stage with a 2-1 aggregate victory over AC Milan, securing a 1-1 draw at San Siro after winning the first leg.
Who scored the goals in Milan vs Feyenoord?
Santiago Giménez scored early for Milan, while Julian Carranza netted the decisive goal for Feyenoord.
Why was Theo Hernandez sent off?
Theo Hernandez received a second yellow card for simulation in the 52nd minute, reducing Milan to ten men and shifting the match’s momentum.
When was the last time Feyenoord reached the Champions League knockout stage?
Feyenoord last reached the Champions League last 16 in 1999, making this their first appearance in the knockout phase in 25 years.
Who could Feyenoord face in the next round?
Feyenoord could potentially face either Inter Milan or Arsenal in the Round of 16, with the draw scheduled for Friday.
What’s next for AC Milan after their elimination?
AC Milan will now focus on their Serie A campaign, aiming to bounce back from their Champions League exit and secure European qualification for next season.
