The Eredivisie’s twelfth round of matches featured an exciting clash between Go Ahead Eagles and Feyenoord, where substitute Sem Steijn’s impact became a key talking point. With Feyenoord looking to regain their top position, the pressure was on their coach, Robin van Persie, and the players.
Eagles Lead Feyenoord
In the match, Go Ahead Eagles took an early lead, scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute. Deijl converted the penalty after a foul by Sauer, putting the Eagles ahead 1-0. This goal set a spirited tone for the home team in Deventer.
Feyenoord’s Struggles
Feyenoord, however, was not without its chances. They started gaining momentum and created several opportunities to equalize, notably in the 18th minute when Hadj Moussa’s shot hit the crossbar.
- First Half:
- 12′ – Goal: Go Ahead Eagles 1, Feyenoord 0 – Penalty scored by Deijl.
- 18′ – Hadj Moussa hits the crossbar.
- Second Half:
- 46′ – Sem Steijn substitutes for Larin.
- 53′ – Feyenoord begins to dominate play.
- 67′ – Suray misses a clear chance against Feyenoord’s goalkeeper Wellenreuther.
Steijn’s Potential Impact
Steijn’s substitution was notably significant as he returned to the team from a hamstring injury, having previously missed the Europa League match against VfB Stuttgart. His fresh legs provided a renewed challenge for the Eagles.
Despite urging from their fans, Feyenoord struggled to break down the Eagles’ defense. They pushed forward but missed vital opportunities to score, leaving Steijn’s impact on the game as a pivotal factor in altering the match’s trajectory.
Upcoming Challenges for Feyenoord
As the match progressed, Feyenoord found it increasingly difficult to create clear chances. They will need to reassess their strategy in upcoming games to stay competitive in the title race, especially with a strong PSV side also vying for the top spot.
Conclusion
In a league where every match counts, the stakes were particularly high for Feyenoord as they faced Go Ahead Eagles. While they fell short of expectations, Steijn’s presence on the bench highlights the depth and potential the team has, indicating that the coming matches may hold more promise as they recalibrate for continued competition.
