The screen split — the live shot on one side, and on the other, a graphic replaying the arc of Izan's converted free-kicks from earlier in the season.
And then, a standout clip rolled.
"8 freekick goals this season, and that one there — remember it?" the commentator said with a grin creeping into his voice.
"Valencia in the last game of the league phase of the UCL. From forty metres out, and he still hit it top bin like he was playing five-a-side."
"Pure technique. Pure nerve."
Back on the pitch, the referee was finally satisfied with the wall — four blue shirts standing shoulder to shoulder, with Cucurella dropping on the ground space behind the wall.
The ref jogged backwards, hand still in the air, shouting toward the keeper.
"Don't move early! Watch the whistle!"
Behind the ball, Izan stood alone now, calm and unflinching.
Skelly had come over at first — said a few words, maybe offering to dummy or feint — but Izan had waved him off.
There was no debate. No trick play.
