Feyenoord - Como: a European evening in Rotterdam with completely different starting positions
Feyenoord and Como meet on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 18:45 at Stadion Feijenoord in Rotterdam, in the second round of the league phase of the 2026/2027 Champions League. The hosts enter the match after a heavy European defeat against Barcelona, while the Italian representatives arrive encouraged by a convincing victory over Leipzig. For Feyenoord, this is their first home match in this season's Champions League and an opportunity to make amends, while for Como it is their first major European test away from home following a successful debut in front of their own supporters.
The difference between their opening results further increases interest in the encounter. Feyenoord lost 5:1 in Barcelona, while Como defeated Leipzig 4:1 at their own stadium. However, the Dutch club's domestic results paint a different picture. Giovanni van Bronckhorst's team has yet to suffer a defeat in the domestic league, and their last two league victories came with a total of twelve goals scored. Como, under Cesc Fàbregas, have also demonstrated attacking quality, but their most recent league appearance ended in defeat away to Frosinone.
The match promises an interesting clash of contrasting European experience. Feyenoord are a club with a rich history of international matches, while Como are competing in European competitions for the first time. For spectators planning to visit De Kuip, the encounter offers an opportunity to see how the ambitious Italian team will perform against hosts who rely on exceptionally vocal support at their own stadium. It is worth securing tickets in good time, especially as this is Feyenoord's first home European appearance of the season.
What is at stake and why the result matters as early as the second round
The Champions League league phase brings together 36 clubs in a single standings table. Each team plays eight matches against different opponents, four at home and four away. The top eight clubs advance directly to the round of 16, teams finishing from ninth to twenty-fourth continue through an additional play-off round, while the remaining clubs end their European campaigns. That is why every point earned counts, and goal difference can play an important role in the final standings.
After the first round, Como have three points and a positive goal difference of three goals. Feyenoord have no points and a negative goal difference of four goals. In the initial standings, Como occupy fifth place and Feyenoord thirty-third. Such positions after just one match are not a reliable indicator of the final outcome, but they say enough about the pressure facing the clubs as they enter their second fixture.
For the hosts, victory would mean returning to contention for the places that secure progression in the competition. Another defeat would leave Feyenoord without points after two rounds, ahead of an away match against Real Betis and home fixtures against Inter and Porto. A victory in Rotterdam would take Como to six points and represent an important step towards extending their European season. The Italian club face a home encounter with Manchester United after Feyenoord, so it is clear that their schedule will not become any easier.
Feyenoord: a powerful home attack and the need for a European response
Giovanni van Bronckhorst has reasons to be satisfied with the start of the domestic league season. After seven rounds of the Eredivisie, Feyenoord have collected 17 points, with five wins, two draws and no defeats. They have scored 25 goals and conceded seven. During that period, they recorded victories over Sparta Rotterdam, SC Cambuur, NEC Nijmegen, PEC Zwolle and FC Utrecht, while drawing against Go Ahead Eagles and ADO Den Haag.
Their last two league matches stand out in particular. Feyenoord defeated PEC Zwolle 7:0 away from home on September 13, and a week later beat FC Utrecht 5:0 at De Kuip. Against Utrecht, Anis Hadj Moussa scored twice, while Nacho Ferri, Luciano Valente from the penalty spot and Gaoussou Diarra also found the net. Such a variety of goalscorers demonstrates that the threat does not come from just one attacking position.
Nevertheless, the defeat against Barcelona exposed how different the demands of the Champions League are from those of the domestic league. Feyenoord conceded an early goal and struggled particularly to stop their opponents' attacks when Barcelona accelerated their play towards the penalty area. Sem Steijn scored the Dutch team's only goal, while Nacho Ferri also found the net, but his goal was disallowed for offside.
A more aggressive performance than in Barcelona can be expected in front of the home supporters. Feyenoord must find a balance between high pressing and protecting their own defence. If too many players join the attack, Como will have space for the quick transitions they already used successfully against Leipzig.
Anis Hadj Moussa, Luciano Valente and Gjivai Zechiël could play important roles. Hadj Moussa is one of Feyenoord's most dangerous players in one-on-one situations, Valente helps link midfield and attack, while Zechiël has also demonstrated his ability to get into goalscoring positions this season. Nacho Ferri provides an option in the centre of attack, while Sem Steijn remains an important option for finishing moves with late runs from deeper positions.
Como: European debutants who immediately demonstrated their attacking quality
Como achieved a result in their first Champions League match that attracted the attention of the European football community. Cesc Fàbregas's team defeated Leipzig 4:1 and displayed a combination of precise passing, fast vertical attacks and clinical finishing. Although they are a club without previous experience in European competitions, the players performed with great confidence against the German representatives.
Martin Baturina opened the scoring in the 15th minute after combining with Tasos Douvikas. Later in the first half, they reversed roles, with Douvikas extending the lead. Assane Diao scored the third goal following a counterattack, and Máximo Perrone completed the victory in the closing stages of the match. Baturina received the player of the match award for his performance.
In Serie A, Como have ten points from five matches, with three wins, one draw and one defeat. They defeated Napoli 2:1 away, Genoa 4:1 and Parma 2:1, while drawing against Udinese. They lost their most recent league encounter 2:0 to Frosinone. A total of nine goals scored and six conceded shows that the team can be effective going forward, but also that opponents are finding opportunities.
Fàbregas's team most often lines up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Luis Milla and the other midfielders play important roles in building attacks, allowing the ball to move towards creative players between the opposition's lines. Nicolás Paz can create numerical advantages by receiving the ball between the lines, Martin Baturina is dangerous both as a playmaker and a finisher, while Assane Diao brings pace to the wide areas.
Tasos Douvikas demonstrated against Leipzig just how effective he can be when he receives a well-timed pass behind the defence. Moise Kean and Jesús Rodríguez are also in the squad, giving Fàbregas different options for changing the tempo of the match. Jean Butez is in goal, having also played in the European victory over Leipzig.
For Como, the key will be maintaining their organisation when Feyenoord increase the pressure. If the Italian midfielders manage to move the ball beyond the first wave of pressing, space will open up for attacks against the home defence. If Feyenoord close down those channels, Como will have to seek solutions through longer spells of possession and switches of play.
Form, results and players who could decide the match
A comparison of the last five matches played in all competitions shows how active both clubs have been in attack ahead of the October break. Feyenoord recorded three wins, one draw and one defeat during that period, while Como have four wins and one defeat.
- Feyenoord - FC Utrecht 5:0: a convincing home victory featuring two goals from Anis Hadj Moussa.
- PEC Zwolle - Feyenoord 0:7: Feyenoord's biggest league victory of the season so far.
- Barcelona - Feyenoord 5:1: a heavy European defeat in which Sem Steijn scored the visitors' only goal that stood.
- Como - Leipzig 4:1: a European debut marked by goals from Baturina, Douvikas, Diao and Perrone.
- Frosinone - Como 2:0: the Italian club's most recent league defeat before the October fixtures.
The duel between Feyenoord's wide attackers and Como's defenders deserves particular attention. Hadj Moussa will try to create advantages through dribbling and cutting inside, while Como will attempt to avoid situations in which their defenders are left without support from the midfielders. At the other end, Baturina, Paz and Diao can exploit the space between the home side's defensive line and midfield.
Feyenoord have demonstrated in the league that they can score large numbers of goals against different opponents. However, Como showed against Leipzig that they can punish mistakes even when they do not have complete control of the match. For that reason, the opening goal could significantly influence the tactics. A home lead would encourage the visitors to play more openly, while a Como advantage would increase the pressure on Feyenoord and their defensive lines.
Both clubs have domestic league commitments immediately before the encounter. Feyenoord host AZ on October 10, while Como play Roma on October 11. Those results will additionally influence morale, possible player rotations and the final assessment of form ahead of the match in Rotterdam.
Injuries, possible absences and tactical questions
According to the available overview of the players' fitness ahead of the encounter, Feyenoord have several problems in defensive and midfield positions. Players listed as injured include Jordan Bos, Gijs Smal, Jakub Moder, Bart Nieuwkoop and Thomas Beelen.
Bos is reported to have a knee injury with a longer expected recovery period, while the availability of Smal, Moder and Nieuwkoop could change following further assessments. Beelen is recovering from a broken leg. Since several days remain until the match begins, the final list of unavailable players should be distinguished from the current medical overview.
No confirmed absences are listed for Como in the same overview, but that does not mean their lineup is already known. The coaches' final decisions will also depend on the domestic league matches immediately before the European encounter.
Van Bronckhorst must pay particular attention to the width of his defensive line. If absences force him to make changes in the full-back positions, Como could attempt to attack precisely those areas. Diao and the other fast visiting attackers are especially dangerous when they can turn towards goal and accelerate into open space.
Fàbregas, on the other hand, must decide how aggressively he wants to press Feyenoord's build-up play. High pressing can create opportunities close to the home goal, but at the same time leaves space for Valente, Zechiël and Hadj Moussa. The match therefore offers an interesting tactical battle between the hosts' desire to take the initiative and the visitors' ability to move quickly from defence to attack.
Head-to-head meetings and European context
Feyenoord and Como have no recorded history of matches against each other in the Champions League before this encounter. Their meeting in Rotterdam therefore comes without previous results on which to base a direct comparison.
Feyenoord have considerably more experience playing European matches. De Kuip has hosted major international finals and national team matches, while the club relies on a supporter culture deeply connected with European appearances.
Como represent a different story. The Italian club entered the season as European debutants, and their victory over Leipzig immediately demonstrated that they do not intend to remain merely an interesting participant in the competition. The trip to Rotterdam will be a new test of their ability to perform in front of loud opposition supporters.
Another important difference is the schedule after this encounter. Feyenoord travel to face Real Betis, while Como host Manchester United. Both teams will be playing in the Champions League again very soon, so the coaches must consider the physical demands and possible changes to their starting lineups.
Stadion Feijenoord: De Kuip as an important part of the match
Stadion Feijenoord, much better known as De Kuip, is located at Van Zandvlietplein 1, 3077 AA Rotterdam. It has been Feyenoord's home since 1937 and is one of the most recognisable football venues in the Netherlands. Throughout its history, the stadium has hosted European club finals, international matches and the final of the 2000 European Championship.
According to information from the stadium operator, its capacity for football matches is approximately 47,500 spectators. De Kuip is recognisable for its steel structure, stands that bring spectators close to the pitch and distinctive shape that retains the sound of cheering inside the stadium. It was renovated in 1994 but has preserved much of its historical identity.
For Feyenoord, playing in front of their own supporters is particularly important after the European defeat in Barcelona. The team that scored five goals against Utrecht in the league now wants to carry that efficiency into an international match. Support from the stands could inspire an aggressive start, particularly during the opening minutes.
Como will have to adapt to a different environment from the one in which they defeated Leipzig. Rotterdam offers a considerably larger stadium and different acoustics, while the home supporters traditionally respond loudly to attempts at high pressing, ball recoveries and attacks towards the opposition goal.
Interest in the match is also reflected in the information that Feyenoord announced approximately 4,000 tickets for individual sale. For supporters wishing to experience a European match at De Kuip, checking ticket availability before arranging travel is an important practical step.
How to get to De Kuip and where to park
The stadium is located in the southern part of Rotterdam, in the Rotterdam-Zuid area. It can be reached by tram, train, bus, bicycle and car. The stadium operator recommends public transport because traffic around De Kuip can be extremely heavy on matchdays.
- Stadium address: Stadion Feijenoord, Van Zandvlietplein 1, 3077 AA Rotterdam.
- Tram: line 3 connects the Rotterdam Centraal area with the Stadion Feijenoord stop. Additional trams on line 12 are also scheduled for matchdays. Due to possible construction work and route changes, the current timetable should be checked before departure.
- Train: Rotterdam Stadion station is used for certain matches and major events. The alternative stations Rotterdam Zuid and Rotterdam Lombardijen are approximately a 15-minute walk from the stadium.
- Car and parking: access to car parks in the immediate vicinity of the stadium is restricted during matches. One of the recommended options is P+R Beverwaard at Edo Bergsmaweg 1, from where the journey continues by tram.
- Arriving by bicycle or water taxi: bicycle parking spaces are available at Olympiaweg 50, while the Watertaxi Rotterdam landing point near the stadium is approximately five minutes away on foot.
For visitors arriving by train from other Dutch cities, Rotterdam Centraal is the most practical starting point for continuing by public transport. Those arriving by car should check traffic restrictions before departure and choose a parking location outside the immediate stadium area in advance.
It is important to pay attention to possible tram line changes. During 2026, construction works are scheduled in Rotterdam that affect certain city tram routes. It is therefore advisable to check the situation through RET or the Dutch journey planner 9292, especially for the return trip after the match.
Visitors with reduced mobility should check access and parking arrangements in advance. De Kuip has designated parking spaces and appropriate accessibility facilities, but their availability during major matches depends on event arrangements.
Stadium entry and planning your arrival
Kick-off is scheduled for 18:45 local time in Rotterdam. The exact gate opening time for the Feyenoord - Como match has not been confirmed in the available information, so it should not be assumed based on other matches. Supporters should follow the organisers' announcements, the entrance and sector indicated on their tickets, and the transport recommendations for that day.
Arriving well before kick-off is particularly useful for visitors coming to De Kuip for the first time. Passing through security checks, finding the correct sector and moving around the stadium can take longer when large numbers of spectators arrive at approximately the same time.
Stadium rules on visitor safety and conduct apply. Bringing pyrotechnic devices and dangerous objects into the stadium is prohibited, and visitors must follow staff instructions. Before departure, it is also advisable to check the rules concerning bags, permitted items and any photography restrictions.
For Como supporters, the organisation of the away section is also important. At major European matches, the entrances and approach routes for visiting supporters may differ from those intended for the home crowd. Therefore, upon arrival, supporters should follow the information relating to their specific ticket rather than simply taking the shortest route to the stadium.
Rotterdam as the host city
Rotterdam is one of the largest cities in the Netherlands and an important European port centre. It is known for its modern architecture, the Nieuwe Maas river and major infrastructure projects. For football visitors, the most important thing to know is that the stadium is located south of the river, while many of the city's attractions and the main railway station are on its northern side.
Visitors arriving early can explore the area around the Erasmusbrug bridge, riverside promenades and Markthal, the well-known covered market in the central part of the city. These are practical locations for a short stay before heading to the match, but sufficient time should be allowed for crossing to Rotterdam-Zuid.
The stadium's proximity to the city's transport network makes it possible to return to the centre after the match, although large events can cause congestion at tram stops. For travellers leaving Rotterdam that same evening, it is particularly important to check the last trains and possible replacement services in advance.
De Kuip also offers stadium tours and a museum dedicated to Feyenoord's history. Such activities may interest supporters staying in the city longer, but their availability on the day of a major match differs from the regular schedule.
What supporters can expect from the match
Feyenoord have a clear motivation: to restore confidence after the defeat in Barcelona and use home advantage to earn their first European points. Their domestic league results show that they can develop an extremely effective attack, but against Como they will have to be more careful when they lose possession.
Como arrive with proof that they can beat quality European opponents. Players such as Baturina, Douvikas, Diao and Paz provide Fàbregas with several attacking solutions, from combinations through the middle to fast counterattacks. That variety could be the biggest challenge for the home defence.
It will be particularly interesting to see whether Feyenoord can impose their tempo from the very beginning or whether Como can calm the game through possession. The hosts want to harness the energy of De Kuip, while the visitors benefit from situations in which they can find space behind a high defensive line.
Tickets for this encounter are an important part of planning a visit to Rotterdam, particularly for supporters travelling from other cities or countries. Securing a place in the stands in good time and organising the journey properly allow attention throughout the evening to remain where it matters most - on the football, the atmosphere and the contest between two teams entering the Champions League with completely different levels of experience.
Sources:
- Champions League portal - second-round schedule, first-round results, standings, lineups, statistics and competition format for the 2026/2027 season.
- Feyenoord.com - Feyenoord's results against Barcelona, PEC Zwolle and FC Utrecht, coach, players, European schedule and ticket information for Como.
- ComoFootball.com - schedule, results and Como first-team squad for the 2026/2027 season.
- FBref.com - Feyenoord's and Como's domestic league performances, points totals, goals scored and conceded, and match schedules.
- FotMob.com - form over the last five matches, injury overview and information about the upcoming encounter.
- VI.nl - domestic league statistics and goalscorer rankings for the Dutch league.
- DeKuip.com - capacity, stadium history, address, transport options, safety regulations and visitor information.
- RET.nl - tram lines to the stadium, additional transport on matchdays and information about construction-related disruptions.
- Rotterdam.info - history, location and tourist information about De Kuip.