Chapitre 54: AZ Alkmaar Draw Level

The AZ Alkmaar fans erupted, their chants and cheers blending into a wave of noise that swept through the stadium.

The Anzhi Makhachkala supporters, on the other hand, grew tense, and their earlier confidence replaced by murmurs of worry.

Inside the 18-yard box, Altidore was met by Gabulov, who charged off his line in a last-ditch effort to smother the chance.

The two players locked eyes for a split second, it was a silent battle of nerves.

[It's one-on-one now!] Paul's voice cracked with excitement. [Altidore against Gabulov—who's going to come out on top?]

Altidore didn't falter and loose focus as Gabulov rushed off his line. With a slight shift of his body, he waited for Gabulov to commit.

The goalkeeper lunged low with his arms outstretched, but it was too late.

With a deft flick of his boot, Altidore chipped the ball, sending it sailing over the onrushing goalkeeper.