The home crowd groaned, some burying their faces in their hands while others tried to rally their team with chants of encouragement.
[It's not over yet, but AZ Alkmaar have a mountain to climb now, especially with only ten men,] the co-commentator added, his tone tinged with sympathy.
As the Anzhi players celebrated near the corner flag, Zhirkov raised his arms to the traveling fans, his face alight with determination.
[What a moment for Zhirkov. That goal could be the difference,] the lead commentator said as the camera panned to the dejected faces of the AZ players.
The referee signaled for the restart, but the energy in the stadium had shifted.
[Can AZ Alkmaar find a way back into this? They've done it before, but this will take something special,] the co-commentator pondered.
Fweeeee!
The referee's whistle blew, signaling the restart.