Tirana, May 26 (BNA): Feyenoord captain Justin Bello said they missed an opportunity to put the club back on the map after making their first European final appearance in 20 years, and ended in huge disappointment as they lost after dominating Roma on Wednesday. .
The Dutch club, which won the UEFA Cup in 2002, suffered a 1-0 defeat in the opening edition of the Europa League final, as a defensive slip allowed Nicolo Zaniolo to snatch the winning goal in the 32nd minute.
“This is awful. We really wanted to take the trophy with us, thank the fans and put Feyenoord back on the map. Unfortunately, it didn’t go that way,” said goalkeeper Bello.
Defender Gernot Trauner missed a cross from Gianluca Mancini into the Feyenoord area, allowing Zaniolo behind him to score from close range.
“We’ve done almost everything right in 19 games and now one mistake has us being punished. It hurts a lot,” said striker Cyril Desires.
“But sometimes we played almost perfect. We can’t blame ourselves.”
Feyenoord hit the woodwork twice and forced Roma into a strong defensive display after the break.
“They were tough,” Desires said. “Even when the ball wasn’t close, I had my elbows in.”
Bello said Feyenoord applied too much pressure and caused difficulties for Roma.
“I saw they had trouble dealing with us. But unfortunately, it wasn’t good enough. It’s a bit cliched, but the last time we played in a European final was 20 years ago. It sounds nice, but it’s true. But for now, It is especially horrible not to be able to take the trophy to Rotterdam.”
Coach Arne Slot tried to soften the blow for his players after the match.
“I told them I couldn’t take away their disappointment from them, but I also said it’s a great honor to be working with this team every day this season,” he said.
“There has never been a day we didn’t enjoy being on the training ground together.”