Feyenoord overcame a sudden change of coach to beat AC Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday, delivering for Pascal Bosschaart a dream start in charge of the Dutch club.
Bosschaart was asked to take over the side some 48 hours before the knockout phase playoff tie at a raucous De Kuip, where a third-minute goal from Igor Paixao handed the hosts a slender 1-0 victory.
Feyenoord fired coach Brian Priske on Monday after a run of poor form but the impact turned out to be minimal and the transition smooth.
"I don't dream very often, but this is a scenario you hope for," Bosschaart admitted after being moved up from his job in charge of Feyenoord’s under-21 side.
"The things the staff planned worked out and if I was also able to add my own touch, it feels really good."
"This was a team effort. We have to compliment everyone. We defended incredibly well and had an attacking plan with the wingers.”
Feyenoord profited from a goalkeeping howler as Paixao’s speculative effort bounced over Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
But they had more chances roared on in the rain by a passionate crowd.
"The boys have also played some great matches before with fight and passion. The only thing you have to do is take away the pressure and give the boys confidence. We succeeded in doing that, but it is not me who must take the credit," Bosschaart added.
He said the 1-0 win was a first step. “We are by no means safe, and we could have won the game 2-0. But we are in a good scenario,” he told reporters.
Captain Quinten Timber hopes to recover for Tuesday’s return in Milan after a clumsy fall saw him depart 15 minutes from the end with a sore knee.
"Initially after the fall, it was OK but then it got a bit stiff. I hope it's not too bad."