Feyenoord secured a narrow 1-0 victory over AC Milan in the first leg of their Champions League knockout round playoff on February 13, 2025. The match, held at De Kuip in Rotterdam, featured a dramatic start as Igor Paixão capitalized on a critical error by Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan just three minutes into the game. Paixão's speculative shot from the left flank skidded off the wet pitch and slipped through Maignan’s fingers, giving Feyenoord an early lead that proved decisive.

The home side displayed resilience and creativity despite the recent upheaval of dismissing head coach Brian Priske just days before the match. Interim manager Pascal Bosschaart, newly promoted from the under-21 team, celebrated a promising start as Feyenoord dominated much of the attacking play. Paixão was particularly influential, frequently troubling Milan's defense and coming close to extending the lead with a curling attempt that hit the crossbar.

While Milan pushed for an equalizer, especially in the final stages of the match, they struggled to convert their chances into goals. Rafael Leão had a couple of opportunities but was thwarted by solid defending from Feyenoord. As the game wore on, Milan looked more threatening, with Samuel Chukwueze testing Feyenoord goalkeeper Timon Wellenreuther with a powerful shot, but the visitors could not find the back of the net.

The result leaves Milan with a challenging task ahead in the second leg at San Siro, where they will aim to overturn the deficit. Captain Kyle Walker expressed confidence in his team's ability to respond, stating, "We can turn it around in the second leg. We have to learn from tonight." Feyenoord will look to build on their positive momentum as they strive to advance to the last 16 of the prestigious competition.