In the UEFA Europa League knockout round play-off clash between Feyenoord and Roma in Rotterdam, the hosts took the lead with Igor Paixao's halftime strike. However, Romelu Lukaku's second-half equalizer secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw for AS Roma, denying Feyenoord the home-leg advantage.
The atmosphere at De Kuip was fervent, with Feyenoord applying relentless pressure in the first half. Paixao's excellent header deservedly put the Dutch hosts in the lead. Despite Feyenoord's efforts, Roma tightened up in the second half, and Lukaku's goal denied the hosts the advantage they worked hard to attain.
The sustained pressure from Feyenoord late in the game, including hitting the post, emphasized their determination. The result sets the stage for an intriguing second leg in Rome, with Feyenoord needing a notable outcome to progress to the round-of-16.
Player of the Match – Igor Paixao (Feyenoord)
Paixao's relentless energy and goal-scoring prowess made him a constant threat to the Roma defense. His well-taken chance secured Feyenoord's lead.
Player Ratings
Feyenoord
Wellenreuther 8; Nieuwkoop 7, Beelen 7, Hancko 7, Hartman 7; Wieffer 8, Zerrouki 7, Stengs 8; Minteh 8, Ueda 6, Paixao 8.
Subs: Gimenez 8, Lingr 7, Ivanusec 8, Read 7, Milambo 7.
Roma
Svilar 7; Karsdorp 6, Mancini 6, Llorente 5, Spinazzola 6; Bove 5, Paredes 7, Pellegrini 6; Dybala 7, Lukaku 7, Zalewski 5.
Subs: El Shaarawy 5, Celik 5, Baldanzi 6, Cristante 6.
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