Feyenoord vs AC Milan are set to clash in the UEFA Champions League knockout phase playoff on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam. This encounter not only rekindles a historic rivalry but also presents a critical juncture for both clubs in their European campaigns.
The knockout phase begins! 👊#UCL pic.twitter.com/D6xPu6Ss6G
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 10, 2025
Historical Context
The last time these two storied clubs met was in the 1969/70 European Cup, where Feyenoord emerged victorious and went on to claim their first European title. This historical backdrop adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming fixture.
Recent Form
Feyenoord: The Dutch side has experienced a roller-coaster season. A significant highlight was their stunning 3-0 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League, showcasing their potential on the European stage. However, this triumph was overshadowed by a crushing 6-1 defeat to Lille, highlighting inconsistencies in their performance. Domestically, Feyenoord secured a 3-0 win against Sparta Rotterdam, but this was their first victory in five league games, leaving them fifth in the Eredivisie, 12 points adrift of leaders Ajax Amsterdam.
AC Milan: The Rossoneri have had a mixed bag of results recently. A 2-0 away win against Empoli in Serie A, with goals from Rafael Leão and new signing Santiago Giménez, was a positive outcome. However, a 2-1 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb in their last Champions League outing raised concerns. Currently, Milan sits seventh in Serie A, striving to find consistency as they juggle domestic and European commitments.
Feyenoord vs AC Milan Team News
Feyenoord: In a surprising move, Feyenoord parted ways with manager Brian Priske just days before the crucial Champions League tie, citing inconsistent results and a lack of team chemistry. Former player Pascal Bosschaart has been appointed as interim manager.
On the injury front, key players such as goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, midfielder Calvin Stengs, and defender Gernot Trauner are sidelined, posing a challenge for the interim manager.
AC Milan: Milan will be without Alessandro Florenzi, Emerson Royal, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek due to injuries. Yunus Musah is suspended for this fixture. On a positive note, the acquisition of Mexican striker Santiago Giménez from Feyenoord adds firepower to their attack, and he is expected to feature against his former club.
Feyenoord vs AC Milan Tactical Overview
Feyenoord: Under interim management, it’s anticipated that Feyenoord will adopt a pragmatic approach. A 4-2-3-1 formation is likely, focusing on defensive solidity while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities. The pace of wingers like Igor Paixão could be pivotal in unsettling Milan’s defense.
AC Milan: Manager Sergio Conceição favors an attacking 4-3-3 setup. With Rafael Leão and Joao Félix flanking Santiago Giménez, Milan will aim to leverage their offensive prowess. The midfield trio of Youssouf Fofana, Tijjani Reijnders, and Christian Pulisic will be crucial in dictating play and maintaining possession.
Key Battles
- Santiago Giménez vs. Feyenoord Defense: The former Feyenoord striker will be eager to make an impact against his old team. His familiarity with De Kuip could provide Milan with an edge.
- Midfield Control: The battle between Feyenoord’s Quinten Timber and Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders will be central to determining the game’s tempo. Whichever side can dominate this area may dictate the flow of the match.
Feyenoord vs AC Milan Predicted Lineups
Feyenoord (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Timon Wellenreuther
- Defenders: Bart Nieuwkoop, Thomas Beelen, David Hancko, Gijs Smal
- Midfielders: Jakub Moder, In-Beom Hwang; Anis Hadj Moussa, Quinten Timber, Igor Paixão
- Forward: Julian Carranza
AC Milan (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Kyle Walker, Fikayo Tomori, Strahinja Pavlović, Theo Hernández
- Midfielders: Christian Pulisic, Youssouf Fofana, Tijjani Reijnders
- Forwards: Rafael Leão, Santiago Giménez, Joao Félix
Feyenoord vs AC Milan Prediction
Given the attacking talents on display and both teams’ recent defensive frailties, a high-scoring encounter is anticipated. A 2-2 draw seems a plausible outcome, setting up a tantalizing second leg at the San Siro.
