Feyenoord secures 1-0 lead over AC Milan in Champions League play-off

Feyenoord secured a surprising 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League knockout playoff, with Igor Paixão scoring the only goal following a significant mistake by Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The Brazilian winger's speculative shot early in the match slipped through Maignan's grasp, setting a positive tone for Feyenoord, who were adjusting to a new interim coach after firing Brian Priske just days prior. Despite Milan's attacking efforts, including attempts from Rafael Leão and João Félix, they struggled to capitalize on their chances as Feyenoord's defense held strong. Coach Sergio Conceição criticized his team's lack of aggression in the opening minutes, indicating his dissatisfaction with their performance. The return leg at San Siro will require a marked improvement from Milan to overturn the deficit. This defeat extends Milan's winless streak in away knockout matches in the Champions League to twelve games.