AC Milan's Champions League Hopes Dashed by Hernandez's Red Card

AC Milan seemed to have their Champions League hopes firmly in their grasp during Tuesday’s home match against Feyenoord. However, the tide turned dramatically when Theo Hernández was shown a red card, completely changing the dynamics of the playoff. Despite this setback, coach Sérgio Conceição declined to hold Hernández accountable for the team’s exit. Having conceded a narrow 1-0 loss in the first leg, Milan was on level terms in the aggregate from the very start of the match. But after Hernández was ejected for simulation, Feyenoord capitalized in the second half, resulting in a 1-1 draw that allowed them to advance with a 2-1 aggregate win.

Conceição acknowledged, “It’s undoubtedly disappointing, as we aimed to be in the last 16. The match demonstrated that we are stronger than our opponents, with crucial moments deciding the outcome, much like the incidents in Zagreb—including the dismissals that took place there and here. It’s clear that I bear the responsibility, not Theo. The environment at Milan isn’t ideal, and the red card is a testament to that.” Santiago Gimenez echoed his coach’s support, extending his solidarity to both Hernández and his teammates following the gut-wrenching loss for the revitalized Milan squad. He expressed, “Today it was Theo’s turn, but it could happen to anyone. As a team, we stand behind him completely. He always gives his all and is among the top full-backs in the world.”