Feyenoord delivered a stunning performance at the San Siro to eliminate AC Milan from the UEFA Champions League 2024/25, securing a place in the last 16 after a hard-fought 1-1 draw on Tuesday night.
The result saw the Dutch side progress with a 2-1 aggregate win, marking a historic night for the Rotterdam club as they capitalized on a second-half red card for Milan’s Theo Hernandez and a decisive header from substitute Julian Carranza.
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Early Drama: Gimenez Strikes Against Former Side
AC Milan wasted no time putting Feyenoord under pressure, with Santiago Gimenez—who controversially transferred from Feyenoord to Milan just two weeks ago—scoring within the opening minute. The Mexican striker, facing his former teammates, capitalized on a short corner routine as Christian Pulisic’s cross found Malick Thiaw, whose header back across goal was nodded home by Gimenez. Though the forward refrained from celebrating, the San Siro faithful erupted in appreciation.
Milan’s early dominance was evident as they relentlessly attacked Feyenoord’s defense. Gimenez almost turned provider, slipping a pass to Joao Felix, whose attempt sailed over the bar. Timon Wellenreuther, Feyenoord’s goalkeeper, produced vital saves to deny Felix and Hernandez, keeping the visitors within touching distance despite failing to register a shot on target in the first half.
Turning Point: Hernandez Sees Red
The match’s complexion shifted dramatically six minutes into the second half when Theo Hernandez received a second yellow card for simulation.
The dismissal left Milan down to ten men, handing Feyenoord a numerical advantage they had struggled to exploit until that point. Despite being a man down, Milan continued to push for a decisive goal, with Kyle Walker testing Wellenreuther, but the Dutch keeper stood firm.
Carranza’s Moment of Glory
Feyenoord’s breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute, courtesy of Julian Carranza, who had been benched due to illness. Hugo Bueno delivered a pinpoint cross from the left flank, and Carranza rose unmarked to send a powerful header past Milan keeper Mike Maignan.
Speaking to Ziggo Sport after the match, Carranza expressed his mixed emotions: “I’m sick, still, but happy. I didn’t feel great, it was something unforgettable to come in and score.”
Late Pressure and San Siro Chaos
Desperate to force extra time, Milan launched a series of late attacks. Malick Thiaw came closest with a strong header, but Wellenreuther once again proved equal to the challenge.
Feyenoord’s disciplined defense withstood the pressure, and as the final whistle blew, emotions spilled over with Givairo Reed receiving a red card post-match as tempers flared.
Road Ahead: Can Feyenoord Keep the Dream Alive?
Advancing to the last 16 places Feyenoord among Europe’s elite, a testament to their tactical discipline and fighting spirit. Tuesday’s triumph evoked memories of Feyenoord’s iconic 1970 European Cup victory, when they defeated Celtic at the San Siro after overcoming Milan in the earlier rounds—a nostalgic parallel not lost on the club’s supporters. Now, with momentum on their side, the Dutch giants will face either Inter Milan or Arsenal in the next round, with the draw scheduled for Friday.
Reflecting on the pivotal moments of the game, Milan defender Kyle Walker voiced his frustration with the officiating: “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 (to send off Hernandez) and the game changed.”
While potential opponents like Inter and Arsenal pose formidable challenges, Feyenoord’s latest upset suggests they are ready to embrace any test that lies ahead. Their traveling supporters, many of whom celebrated long into the Milanese night, believe that perhaps—just perhaps—history could be repeating itself.
FAQs
How did Feyenoord eliminate AC Milan from the Champions League 2024/25?
Feyenoord knocked out AC Milan with a 1-1 draw at the San Siro, securing a 2-1 aggregate win. Julian Carranza’s 73rd-minute header, combined with Theo Hernandez’s red card for Milan, proved decisive.
Who scored for AC Milan and Feyenoord in the second leg?
Santiago Gimenez opened the scoring for Milan within the first minute, while Julian Carranza equalized for Feyenoord with a crucial header in the 73rd minute.
Why was Theo Hernandez sent off during the match?
Theo Hernandez received a second yellow card for simulation six minutes into the second half, leaving Milan with ten men and shifting the momentum toward Feyenoord.
Who will Feyenoord face in the Champions League round of 16?
Feyenoord will play either Inter Milan or Arsenal in the round of 16, with the draw scheduled for Friday.
What is the historical significance of Feyenoord’s victory over Milan?
The win revived memories of Feyenoord’s 1970 European Cup triumph when they defeated Celtic at the San Siro after overcoming Milan in earlier rounds.
