Feyenoord welcomes Inter Milan to De Kuip for the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, aiming to take down another Serie A powerhouse. Last month, the Dutch side stunned AC Milan in the playoffs despite sacking their manager just days before.
Van Persie’s men have struggled with injuries and inconsistency this season, using a record 36 players in Eredivisie action. They recently endured three defeats in eight league matches but have since steadied the ship, going unbeaten in six games.
Inter Milan, meanwhile, cruised through the league phase, finishing fourth with the best defensive record in the tournament. Under Simone Inzaghi, they have kept clean sheets in nearly 60% of their Champions League matches.
Feyenoord is dealing with an injury crisis, with up to 11 players unavailable, including key figures like Hwang In-beom, Ayase Ueda, and captain Quinten Timber. First-choice goalkeeper Justin Bijlow is also out, forcing a reshuffled lineup.
Inter will be without several wing-backs, including Carlos Augusto and Matteo Darmian, while first-choice goalkeeper Yann Sommer is also sidelined. Lautaro Martinez, who is tied as the club’s top European scorer, will lead the attack alongside Marcus Thuram.
Feyenoord is expected to field Wellenreuther in goal, with a back four of Mitchell, Beelen, Hancko, and Bueno. The midfield trio could consist of Ivanusec, Moder, and Smal, supporting an attacking front three of Hadj Moussa, Carranza, and Paixao. Inter is likely to start J. Martinez in goal, with a defensive trio of Bisseck, Acerbi, and Bastoni.
Feyenoord has already beaten Bayern Munich and Milan at home this season, proving they can rise to the occasion. However, with so many absentees, they may struggle against Inter’s experience and tactical discipline. A narrow 1-0 victory for Inter Milan is the most likely outcome.