The players took their final positions on the pitch, their eyes locked on the ball resting at the center circle. The referee gave a last glance to both goalkeepers before raising his whistle to his lips.
Fweeee!
[And we are underway here at the Stadio Friuli! Udinese, in their black and white stripes, kick us off, attacking from left to right, while AZ Alkmaar, in their red kits, look to make a strong start in this European clash,] Marco Lazzari called.
The ball was immediately played back to Allan, who turned and rolled it to Danilo under early pressure from Altidore.
The Brazilian defender quickly shifted it wide to Basta on the right flank, looking to push forward.
[You can already see the intent from Udinese,] David Vickery noted. [They want to establish control early, keeping possession and stretching AZ Alkmaar's shape]
Basta drove forward but was quickly closed down by Gorter, who forced him to pass back.