Sinisterra matchwinner on De Kuip return against PEC

A 2-0 win at Sparta Rotterdam at the weekend had strengthened Feyenoord’s position in the top three. And with AZ pulling off a 3-1 win at PSV in Wednesday’s early game, Feyenoord kicked off against PEC Zwolle knowing that any sort of win would elevate them to second in the table.

That said, with just four losses all season in the Eredivisie it was clear that PEC Zwolle would provide formidable opposition. And Feyenoord did not help their cause by starting sluggishly, suggesting their minds were perhaps already drifting towards Sunday’s showdown against league leaders Ajax.

Without their usual fizz, Feyenoord found it hard to break down their opponents and create openings. And when chances did fall to the hosts, Lucas Pratto, Leroy Fer and Jens Toornstra all failed to hit the target.

Sinisterra returns
Advocaat introduced Luis Sinisterra and Ridgeciano Haps for Bryan Linssen and Mark Diemers at the break, but the chances were just as far and few between in the second 45. That said, Feyenoord did manage to convert the one they needed to edge ahead. It was Sinisterra who celebrated his first appearance at De Kuip after a long period out injured with the breakthrough. 

The Colombian used his strength to make some space on the edge of the penalty box, before whipping in a right-footed shot that went in near the post. It was his first Eredivisie goal in almost a year, since a 1 February 2020 strike in a 3-0 win against FC Emmen at De Kuip. Sinisterra’s goal proved to be the winner, securing his side’s tenth victory of the season.

Up to second 
The win moves Feyenoord up to second place in the Eredivisie. With 16 rounds played, Feyenoord have 35 points, the same as leaders Ajax, who have a game in hand (at FC Twente on Thursday), and Vitesse, and a point ahead of fourth-placed PSV. Next up for Feyenoord is a trip to Amsterdam for the much-anticipated Klassieker (kick-off: 16:45 CET).