As the clock ticked toward the 77th minute, movement stirred on the AZ Alkmaar bench.
The fourth official raised the board. Three substitutions.
Chris: [Here we go. Gertjan Verbeek is making changes.]
Victor Elm jogged off first, his face flushed with effort. He clapped his hands above his head, acknowledging the traveling fans as Johann Berg Gudmundsson gave him a pat on the back. Adam Maher was the replacement, a fresh injection of energy in midfield.
Next, Berghuis. He had been dangerous all night, but Gertjan Verbeek had seen enough. Beerens stepped in.
And then—Altidore.
Rob: [Wait. Altidore?]
The American striker glanced at the touchline, saw his number, and froze. A brief hesitation—then he trudged off, shaking his head. He wasn't happy.
Chris: [Now this is interesting. Altidore's missed some big chances, but pulling him off?]
Fernando Lewis replaced him, a more young attacking-minded player. A clear message.
