Champions League: Feyenoord Edges Milan 1-0 After Goalkeeper Error

Feyenoord secured a narrow 1-0 victory over AC Milan in their Champions League match, thanks to an early goalkeeping mistake by Mike Maignan. The Italian side now faces an uphill battle to advance to the knockout stages.

Milan manager Stefano Pioli opted to start his “Fab Four” attacking lineup of Rafael Leão, Christian Pulisic, João Félix and Santiago Giménez for the first time. However, the star-studded front line failed to make an impact against a resolute Feyenoord defense.

The decisive moment came just 3 minutes into the match, when Igor Paixão’s seemingly routine shot slipped through Maignan’s hands and into the net. It was an uncharacteristic error from the usually reliable French goalkeeper.

Despite controlling possession for long stretches, Milan struggled to create clear-cut chances. Their best opportunity fell to Leão late in the first half, but his effort was blocked at close range by Thomas Beelen.

Feyenoord nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Paixão’s powerful strike rattled the crossbar. The Dutch side remained dangerous on the counter-attack throughout.

Milan pushed for an equalizer in the second half but lacked the cutting edge to break down Feyenoord’s organized defensive shape. Substitute Samuel Chukwueze came closest with a shot that was well saved by Timon Wellenreuther.

The result leaves Milan with work to do in the return leg at San Siro next week if they hope to progress to the Champions League Round of 16. Feyenoord will be delighted to take a slender advantage back to Italy.