The city of Utrecht had transformed into something magical in the days leading up to the cup final. Red and white flags hung from every window, banners stretched across streets, and the anticipation was so thick you could almost taste it in the air. After nine years of waiting, after decades of disappointment, their team was 48 hours away from potentially lifting the KNVB Cup.
Amani pedaled his bicycle through the cobblestone streets on the morning of April 5th, taking his usual route from his apartment to the training ground. But today was different. Today, every street corner seemed to hold a group of supporters who recognized him, every café window displayed his picture alongside the rest of the team, and every conversation he overheard was about Sunday's final.
"Amani! Amani!" called out a group of children playing football in Wilhelminapark. They abandoned their makeshift match and ran toward the fence as he cycled past, their faces beaming with excitement.
