Feyenoord Hosts Como: European Nights Return to De Kuip with Fabregas’s Italian Side in Rotterdam

European experience meets fresh Serie A ambition as Feyenoord prepare to face Cesc Fabregas's rising Como in Rotterdam. This match promises intriguing individual battles, spotlighting the attacking threat of Anis Hadj Moussa and the creativity of Martin Baturina.

There’s something special about playing under the lights at De Kuip midweek. The passionate Rotterdam crowd is ready to create an intense atmosphere as Feyenoord aims to bounce back after a tough start to their Champions League journey. After suffering a heavy 5-1 loss in Barcelona, Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s team has shown flair in the Eredivisie, delivering impressive wins like a 7-0 thrashing of PEC Zwolle and a 5-0 victory over FC Utrecht. But the European stage demands more toughness, and Feyenoord wants to prove they belong among the continent’s best.

The visitors from Italy are no ordinary side. In just over two years since leaving Serie B, former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has transformed Como into serious Champions League challengers. They come to Rotterdam confident after a commanding 4-1 win against RB Leipzig, playing a style shaped by their manager’s vision. This encounter also features a fascinating duel between two ex-Arsenal and Barcelona players now coaching their teams.

Key Players to Watch

• Anis Hadj Moussa: Feyenoord’s main game-changer, the 24-year-old Algeria international has stood out since joining in summer 2024. He earned the Eredivisie Player of the Month award in May 2026. With Ayase Ueda’s move to Lille, Moussa leads the attack. Despite a failed transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia before the Barcelona trip, he returned with focus, even forcing a save at Camp Nou. His speed, directness, and fearlessness will test Como’s defense, especially with the crowd behind him.
• Gjivai Zechiël: In midfield, Zechiël drives Feyenoord’s engine. A product of the club’s academy, he’s back after loans and quickly made his mark with technical skill and tireless effort, winning Player of the Month in August. His role in linking defense to attack is vital against Como’s possession-based approach.
• Martin Baturina: Como’s Croatian playmaker already has a Champions League moment to remember, scoring their first-ever goal in the competition against RB Leipzig and assisting another. Operating between the lines, he blends creativity with goal threat, enjoying plenty of freedom from Fabregas. Shutting him down will be crucial for Feyenoord’s midfield.
• Nico Paz: Signed from Real Madrid, Paz brings flair and unpredictability to Como’s attack. Able to unlock defenses with clever passes, he was influential in their win over Leipzig and poses a major challenge for Feyenoord's defense.

Looking Ahead

This match holds all the elements of a classic European night. Feyenoord must use home advantage to unsettle a young but ambitious Como team. The tactical duel between Van Bronckhorst and Fabregas will be intense, but individual moments from players like Hadj Moussa, Paz, or Baturina could tip the balance. Rotterdam is ready to witness a fierce contest, with the points up for grabs for whoever manages the pressure best.

A win for Feyenoord could spark momentum through a tough league schedule, while Como could confirm themselves as surprise contenders. Both sides favor attacking play, so don’t expect a cautious match. By the final whistle, we’ll see which team’s stars are prepared to shine on Europe’s biggest stage.