The De Grolsch Veste stadium in Enschede had always been a difficult venue for visiting teams. The compact ground created an intimidating atmosphere, and FC Twente's supporters were known for their passionate support of their team. As the Utrecht team bus pulled up to the stadium, Amani felt the unfamiliar sensation of being a spectator rather than a participant.
Sitting in the away section, dressed in his club tracksuit rather than his playing kit, Amani experienced football from a perspective he had almost forgotten. The view from the stands was different - broader but less intimate, strategic but less visceral.
Jack van Gelder's voice carried across the stadium's public address system as he introduced the match to television viewers. "A crucial Eredivisie fixture here in Enschede, with both teams having different objectives. Twente are pushing for European qualification, while Utrecht are managing their squad with one eye on the upcoming cup final."
