Feyenoord Triumphs Over Fenerbahçe in Champions League Thriller

Feyenoord Celebrates Dramatic Victory in Rotterdam

Feyenoord delivered a memorable performance on August 7, 2025, clinching a 2-1 win against Fenerbahçe in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round. The match, held at De Kuip in Rotterdam, was packed with excitement and significance for both the club and its supporters.

Robin van Persie’s Managerial Debut on a Special Day

This fixture was especially notable as it marked Robin van Persie’s first official match as Feyenoord’s head coach. The former Dutch international, who enjoyed a glittering playing career, stepped into the managerial spotlight on his 42nd birthday, adding a personal milestone to an already momentous evening. Van Persie’s appointment had generated considerable anticipation among fans, and his debut did not disappoint, as Feyenoord displayed both tactical discipline and attacking intent throughout the encounter.

Quinten Timber Returns and Opens the Scoring

Feyenoord’s early dominance was rewarded when Quinten Timber found the net in the first half. Timber’s goal was a testament to his resilience, as he had missed the closing stages of the previous season due to injury. His return to European competition was eagerly awaited, and he made an immediate impact, giving the home side a crucial advantage. Timber’s energy in midfield set the tone for Feyenoord’s aggressive approach, and his goal was celebrated passionately by the home crowd.

Fenerbahçe’s Response and the Match’s Turning Point

Despite Feyenoord’s strong start, Fenerbahçe demonstrated their quality and experience by leveling the score late in the second half. The Turkish side, known for their attacking prowess, capitalized on a defensive lapse to equalize, momentarily silencing the Rotterdam faithful. The goal shifted the momentum, and for a brief period, it appeared that Fenerbahçe might leave the Netherlands with a valuable away result.

Anis Hadj Moussa’s Stoppage-Time Heroics

As the match entered stoppage time, Feyenoord pressed forward in search of a winner. Their efforts were rewarded when Anis Hadj Moussa rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross and powered a header past the Fenerbahçe goalkeeper. The stadium erupted in celebration as Hadj Moussa’s goal secured a dramatic 2-1 victory, giving Feyenoord a slender but vital lead heading into the second leg.

New Faces and Leadership in Feyenoord’s Lineup

The match also showcased several changes in Feyenoord’s squad. Sem Steijn, recently appointed as club captain, led the team with composure and determination. The defensive line featured Jordan Bos at left-back, while new signings Tsuyoshi Watanabe and Anel Ahmedhodzic formed a promising partnership in central defense. These additions, combined with the return of key players like Timber, have injected fresh energy and optimism into the squad as they pursue European success.

Looking Ahead: The Decisive Second Leg in Istanbul

With a 2-1 advantage, Feyenoord will travel to Istanbul for the return leg next Tuesday. The tie remains finely balanced, as Fenerbahçe will be eager to overturn the deficit on home soil. The Turkish giants boast a formidable record at their stadium, and Feyenoord will need to maintain their focus and resilience to progress to the next stage of the Champions League qualifiers.

For Feyenoord supporters, the first-leg victory represents a promising start to the new European campaign under Robin van Persie’s leadership. The team’s blend of experienced players and exciting new signings has created a sense of optimism, and the dramatic win over Fenerbahçe has set the stage for an enthralling second leg.

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AD.nl: Feyenoord wint met 2-1 van Fenerbahçe in Champions League Kwalificatie