The team dispersed shortly after, some heading for ice baths while others jogged towards the waiting fans.
Benjamin, as always, stayed behind a little longer, working on his footwork and setpiece techniques under the watchful eye of a coach.
The fans lingered as well, reluctant to leave. Conversations buzzed about the team's form, the match ahead, and the young players like Benjamin, Berghuis, and Adam, who seemed poised to make their mark on European football.
As the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, it felt as though all of Alkmaar was holding its breath for Thursday night.
Benjamin knelt to retie his laces, his gaze drifting momentarily toward the fence where fans pressed against the metal, eager to catch one last glimpse. He stood and jogged over, stopping just shy of the barrier.
Phones rose in unison, capturing the moment as Benjamin signed autographs, posed for photos, and exchanged a few words with those closest.
