Feyenoord kicked off with a bang, scoring within 14 minutes. Ayase Ueda was launched down the left by Jakub Moder. Ueda’s clever chip over Jasper Schendelaar, the PEC Zwolle goalkeeper, put Feyenoord ahead 1-0.
The Rotterdam side doubled their lead just a few minutes later thanks to a Schendelaar blunder. The Zwolle keeper struggled to control the ball at his feet and inadvertently kicked it against Antoni Milambo. The ball slowly rolled into the net, leaving Schendelaar with no chance.
Blauwvingers cruise to a convincing win
Feyenoord didn’t let up. Two minutes later, they scored their third, again capitalizing on a Zwolle mistake. Milambo picked out Igor Paixao with a precise pass, and the Brazilian forward slotted home easily, making it 3-0.
The crowd was electric during the first half, but things quieted down significantly after the break. PEC Zwolle tried to create some chances, but Feyenoord’s defense held firm. Timon Wellenreuther made a crucial fingertip save from a long-range effort, and the Zwolle visitors struggled to trouble him again. Feyenoord eased into cruise control, managing their lead with ease.
Paixao was at it again in the 80th minute, scoring his second of the game. The Brazilian winger received the ball in the box, showed great composure, and placed it perfectly into the top corner, making it 4-0. This was the final score, and Feyenoord collected all three points.
With this win, Feyenoord overtook FC Utrecht on goal difference. Both teams now have 62 points, but Feyenoord have played one game less. However, the real focus will be on PSV Eindhoven, who are just five points behind and have been gaining momentum lately. The two teams face off in three weeks, which could be a crucial match in the Eredivisie title race.
Feyenoord’s title challenge
Feyenoord’s victory keeps them in the hunt for the Eredivisie title and a potential direct spot in the Champions League. They’ll be keenly aware of PSV’s progress, and a win in their upcoming head-to-head clash could narrow the gap to just two points with four games to go.
Before the match against PEC Zwolle, Feyenoord fans were abuzz with transfer rumors. Several Dutch media outlets reported that Sem Steijn was set to join Feyenoord from FC Twente for €13 million. However, sources close to the club denied these reports. Steijn will remain with Twente until the end of the season, and Feyenoord will have to wait to bolster their squad.
Feyenoord’s current form has them in a strong position, but the upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their title chances. They’ll need to maintain their momentum and stay focused on their goals if they want to secure a top spot in the Eredivisie.