Adrián “Maravilla” Martínez did what only legends do—he turned a frustrating night into history with a moment of brilliance that will be remembered for years at the Cilindro.

In a tense and goalless showdown against Brazilian side Fortaleza, Racing Club needed a spark to wrap up their Copa Libertadores group stage campaign on a high. It came in the final minute of added time when Martínez, under pressure and with defenders crowding him, controlled a high ball with his head and executed a spectacular bicycle kick, nestling the ball perfectly past the goalkeeper to snatch a dramatic 1-0 win.

With that strike, Maravilla didn’t just win the game—he matched club legend Raffo as Racing’s top scorer in international competitions with 15 goals. His overall tally now stands at 44 goals in 70 matches, an extraordinary feat that has fans chanting in unison: “¡A Maravilla, la Selección!”

The atmosphere was electric. What had been a sluggish, emotionally flat encounter suddenly turned into a euphoric celebration, not just for the victory, but for a player who has embodied consistency, power, and charisma at the No. 9 spot.

“Everything’s happening so fast, I barely realize it,” said an emotional Martínez post-match. “This is for the team—we keep attacking, pushing, and eventually the moments come. I knew I needed just one more goal to make history.”

While Racing had already secured qualification from Group E, this win placed them third among all group leaders, giving them a crucial advantage in the knockout rounds—the right to play all but two potential playoff ties at home.

Head coach Gustavo Costas, who had earlier called for reinforcements to push for continental glory, was vindicated in his trust in Martínez. But fans and pundits alike are now looking beyond Avellaneda. With Argentina national team manager Lionel Scaloni overlooking the striker in favor of teammate Juan Ignacio Nardoni, the call from the stands grew louder: it’s time for Maravilla to wear the Albiceleste.

Beyond the pitch, Racing’s fanbase is also sending a message to the club’s leadership. Banners outside the stadium demanded quality reinforcements for the knockout phase, echoing the coach’s public plea: “We need three or four more players to fight for the Libertadores until the end.”

But for now, the night belongs to Maravilla. In a tournament known for its late drama and unforgettable heroes, Adrián Martínez may have just written his defining chapter.