Game-defining moments have an uncanny ability of separating the pretenders from the true stars; the ones who stare in the face of immense pressure and smile.
When the lights shine brightest, when all eyes are fixated on an army of one, the stakes are often enough to make the strongest of men crumble under weight of the task at hand.
But on the pitch, it couldn’t be simpler. When you eliminate all the other factors, it always boils down to the same things: a ball, a wall, and the net. It’s a juxtaposition seen around the world, where the love of the game is so readily apparent amongst the young boys and girls who dream of sending the crowd into euphoria with one kick of the ball.
"Playing football is very simple, but playing simple football is the hardest thing there is." - Johan Cruyff
Of course, only a precious few have ever been graced with the opportunity to play the hero. And as Felipe took center stage, his defining moment came not with the ball at his feet, but rather in his hands.
As thousands held their breath in anticipation, a delicate kiss let the world know of his love for the game, his team, the fans, and the moment that he simply would not allow to pass by.
The moment, impossible to replicate. The feeling, beyond description.
In an instant, the magical Martins took us all back to a time when we yearned to be the hero, a moment that will live on in Red Bull Arena history for generations to come.
“It is Felipe, and it is spectacular."
Illustration by Paul Simundich
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