The euphoria of Amani's birthday celebration was still fresh in everyone's minds as Utrecht prepared for their trip to Breda. The Rat Verlegh Stadion had always been a difficult venue for visiting teams, with NAC's passionate supporters creating an intimidating atmosphere that could unsettle even the most experienced players.
Coach Wouters had been clear during the team meeting: "NAC are fighting for every point. They'll be physical, they'll be direct, and they'll try to disrupt our rhythm. We need to be ready for a battle."
The warning proved prophetic from the moment Utrecht stepped off the team bus. A small but vocal group of NAC supporters had gathered outside the stadium, their chants echoing through the narrow streets of Breda. It wasn't hostile, but it was a reminder that this wouldn't be the comfortable home environment they'd enjoyed against RKC Waalwijk.
