Feyenoord Defeats Como in Champions League
Luciano Valente is drawing praise from analysts following Feyenoord’s 3–2 victory over Como 1907 in the UEFA Champions League at De Kuip. Martijn Krabbendam stated in the Dick Voormekaar Podcast Extra that Valente is developing toward a level that exceeds Feyenoord, pointing to his rising productivity this season. The win over the Italian side generated widespread enthusiasm within the club. Pieter Zwart was also impressed by the performance, noting that it is a very good signal that Feyenoord can measure itself against a serious team like Como that can combine and play the ball out from under pressure quickly.
What an evening,
Krabbendam said of the match atmosphere, as reported by fr12.nl. It was beautiful.
People are happy.
Tactical Battles and Squad Management Against Como
Valente squared off directly against Nico Paz, another standout performer during the fixture. Zwart observed that Paz is a special player who does very little wrong amid the considerable quality within Como. Zwart noted that Valente easily adapts to different roles within the team, having previously played in a free role starting from the flank at FC Groningen before shifting further back at Feyenoord and now playing as a hanging left-winger where his attacking output includes 19 created chances, goals, and an assist. Former Groningen coach Dick Lukkien and teammate Dávid Hancko previously praised Valente during his time at Groningen, where Lukkien also viewed him as capable of playing a level higher in a left-winger role.
Valente Nears National Team Switch and Squad Integration
Italian sports daily The Gazzetta dello Sport reported ahead of the fixture that Valente weighed a future with the Netherlands against representing Italy, where he grew up. The Italian sport medium highlighted his decision to choose the Dutch national team after the midfielder wanted to play in Serie A and for the national team of Italy where he grew up. Valente ultimately chose the Netherlands after waiting for a call from Gennaro Gattuso that never came, receiving a call from Ronald Koeman instead, leaving his Azzurri dream behind while a part of him will continue to feel Italian. Speaking at a Tuesday press conference ahead of the European fixture, Feyenoord captain Valente emphasized the growing unity within the squad, stating that the team functions increasingly like a close-knit family.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Feyenoord play Como 1907 in the Champions League?
Feyenoord faced Como 1907 in October 2026 at De Kuip, securing a 3–2 victory.
What did analysts say about Luciano Valente’s performance?
Martijn Krabbendam and Pieter Zwart praised Valente’s technical quality, noting that his attacking output has increased this season with 19 created chances, goals, and an assist.
Why did Luciano Valente choose to play for the Netherlands?
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Valente waited for contact from the Italian setup before receiving a call from Ronald Koeman, leading him to commit to the Dutch national team.
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