Sometimes a substitute's job is to hold shape or kill time. Mohamed Abdalla had something else in mind.
The Ajax midfielder was introduced late in Thursday's Conference League tie at FK Vojvodina, with his side already comfortably ahead. Four minutes later he had his name on the scoresheet, capping a dominant 4-1 away win in Novi Sad.
Abdalla's cameo earned him a match rating of 7.5, a notable return for such a brief appearance. His goal put the gloss on what had been a comprehensive performance from the Dutch side, who controlled proceedings from early on and never looked troubled after taking the lead.
Vojvodina managed only a consolation in reply, unable to contain an Ajax attack that found space repeatedly. The scoreline flattered the hosts, if anything. By the time Abdalla entered the fray, the outcome was settled; his contribution simply underlined the gulf in quality.
For Ajax, it was another efficient away performance in Europe. For Abdalla, it was the kind of instant impact that keeps a squad player sharp and reminds the manager he has options when rotation is required. Four minutes, one goal, job done.