Feyenoord V1 through in Europe after impressive comeback against Anderlecht

Feyenoord went into the return leg knowing they had to overturn the 2-1 defeat suffered in Belgium a week earlier. Sterre Kroezen came into the starting line-up in place of the suspended Tess van Bentem.

Marc Pieters’ side made a dream start. Romée van de Lavoir opened the scoring after just five minutes, before Kroezen doubled the lead five minutes later. The 2-0 advantage put Feyenoord ahead on aggregate.

Anderlecht pulled one back before half-time to make it 2-1, bringing the two sides level again over the two legs.

Feyenoord were soon given the chance to restore their advantage. After 36 minutes, Eva van Deursen was brought down inside the penalty area and the referee pointed to the spot. Tori DellaPeruta stepped up and fired the penalty emphatically into the top corner: 3-1.

After the break, Anderlecht saw more of the ball and Feyenoord were forced to defend their lead. Claire Dinkla played an important role in goal, producing several saves to keep the visitors at bay.

Feyenoord held firm and the score remained 3-1 until the final whistle. The victory completed an impressive comeback and secured Feyenoord’s place in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Women’s Europa Cup.

The draw for the next round will take place this Friday. The second qualifying round ties will be played on 23 and 30 September.