章 47: Anzhi Makhachkala VS AZ Alkmaar

[And we're underway here in Makhachkala!] Paul's voice rose above the clamor of the spectators as the opening whistle signaled the start of what promised to be a captivating clash.

The game kicked off with Anzhi Makhachkala asserting early dominance over AZ Alkmaar. They executed a lot of sharp passes and their fluid movements pinned AZ Alkmaar back into their own half.

[Anzhi Makhachkala starting strong here," Willem observed. [As expected from the favourites of tonight's game. They're pressing high and keeping high defensive lines to draw offside moves from AZ Alkmaar. This tactical approach has forced AZ Alkmaar into some uncomfortable positions]

It didn't take long for the first moment of danger to arrive in the game.

Eto'o and Shatov played a quick one-two between themselves and left the AZ Alkmaar defense scrambling to defend the threat.

Shatov broke past Martens and sent a long ball to Willian who was free down the left wing.