The AFAS Stadion crackled with tension, the floodlights casting sharp shadows across the pitch.
The 30th minute ticked by, and the scoreboard still held firm at 0-0. AZ Alkmaar and Udinese traded blows, each pass a jab, each tackle a counterpunch. The crowd's roar never dipped, a relentless wave fueling the players' fire.
Martens scooped up a loose ball, his boots scuffing the turf as he flicked it to Benjamin. The winger danced near the touchline, eyes scanning. Basta edged closer, cautious but aggressive.
Benjamin feinted left, then chopped right—a quick Ronaldo's Chop—leaving Basta's lunge grasping air. The crowd erupted, scarves swinging.
Tony's voice surged. [Benjamin's at it again! Basta's on skates!]
Jack laughed, mic catching his clap. [He's making it look easy, Tony! Kid's got magic in those boots]
Benjamin sprinted toward the 18 yard box, but Benatia slid in, a crunching tackle sending the ball spinning to Pinzi.
