Feyenoord are out of the Europa League after suffering a devastating defeat to AS Roma for the third season running after losing on penalties. The Italian outfit ended Feyenoord’s eleven game unbeaten run across all competitions.
Back on familiar territory, Feyenoord got off to a fantastic start at the Stadio Olimpico. Santiago Giménez gave them the lead within the first five minutes after Quilindschy Hartman’s cross found its way to the Mexican, who made no mistake from close range. The home side responded quickly as El Shaarawy picked out Lorenzo Pellegrini on the edge of the area and the Roma captain buried the ball into the back of the net.
Roma came out for the second half and picked up where they left off, dominating possession but failing to create any quality chances. Feyenoord experienced a similar situation, as they looked strong but were blunt in attack.
After 120 minutes of football, penalties were required to determine the outcome of the Europa League tie. Mile Svilar proved to be the hero between the sticks for Roma, making two saves from four penalties faced, and with his side scoring four of their five, they progressed to Friday’s draw for the last-16 of the tournament.
Feyenoord turn their attention back to the league, as they face Almere City in the Eredivisie this Sunday. They’re still ten points behind league leaders PSV in the table, but sit comfortably in second place. Arne Slot’s side will need a miracle if they’re to claim a second successive league title.
GBeNeFN | Hugo Hargreaves