Chapter 55: First Career Goal

The clock soon ticked into the 81st minute, and the game burst into life once more.

Anzhi Makhachkala knew that a draw wasn't enough but AZ Alkmaar would be happy if the game ended in this scoreline as they now had a slight advantage over the Russian side.

With the away goal rule, AZ Alkmaar now had an advantage over Anzhi Makhachkala when they meet again in Alkmaar for the second-leg of the Europa League qualifying play-off match.

The crowd's roars fluctuated with each attack, their energy feeding the players on the pitch.

Anzhi Makhachkala struck first after the restart. Samuel Eto'o received the ball just outside the 18-yard box.

With a quick turn, he evaded Reijnen who was closely marking him to free himself, and he let loose a low shot aimed at the bottom corner.

[What a strike by Eto'o!] Paul's voice carried the urgency. [Is this the moment for Anzhi Makhachkala?]