The morning sun spilled across the training ground as the Black Team stood assembled on the edge of the field. The importance of tomorrow's match weighed heavily on everyone's shoulders. Coach Kobayashi's words echoed in Theo's mind: "Tomorrow's performance will decide who starts in the first league match. And remember, if you perform poorly, you'll drop down in rank." This wasn't just about playing a game—it was about survival, pride, and proving themselves worthy to stand among the best.
Theo glanced around at his teammates. Minji, always calm but focused, stood nearby, stretching silently. Tatsuro adjusted his gloves with determination, already visualizing the saves he'd need to make. Renjiro, his usual confidence intact, kept his gaze fixed on the field ahead. Haruka, ever quiet but fierce, cracked his knuckles in preparation. Each of them knew what was at stake.
Coach Kobayashi clapped his hands to gather their attention. "Before tomorrow's match, we're running drills to sharpen your skills. Remember, this is your chance to make your case for a starting spot. Slacking off isn't an option. Show me you belong on the pitch."
The team split into groups, each working on different facets of their game. Theo and Minji were paired for attacking drills. They ran through countless scenarios—one-twos, overlapping runs, and clinical finishing. Minji, ever the perfectionist, nodded approvingly when Theo smashed a volley into the top corner. "Nice shot, Theo. But don't get too comfortable; tomorrow, we need more than just nice."
On the defensive side, Renjiro and Haruka sparred fiercely, challenging each other to win every tackle and block every shot. Renjiro smirked as he intercepted a pass from one of the assistant coaches. "Tomorrow, I'll make sure nobody gets past me. Not even Ken, if he dares to try."
Meanwhile, Tatsuro commanded his box during set-piece drills, leaping high to punch crosses away and barking orders at his defenders. "Haruka, tighter marking! Renjiro, watch your man!" His leadership shone as he organized the backline, proving he was more than just a shot-stopper.
After hours of relentless training, the team gathered for a short meeting. Coach Kobayashi stood in front of them, his tone serious. "Tomorrow is not just a match. It's a test of your ability to handle pressure, to perform when it matters. I'll be watching every pass, every tackle, every decision. Don't think for a second that mistakes won't cost you."
Minji leaned toward Theo and whispered, "We can't let Ken or anyone else overshadow us tomorrow. This is our moment to shine."
Theo nodded, feeling the weight of the upcoming game. He knew Ken would bring everything he had, and the other teams wouldn't hold back either.
That evening, the cafeteria was buzzing with chatter. Players from different teams talked about tomorrow's game, their voices a mix of excitement and nerves. Theo sat with his group, listening as Renjiro confidently predicted, "We'll crush anyone who gets in our way."
Minji smirked. "That confidence better show up tomorrow, Renjiro."
Haruka added quietly, "It's not just about confidence. It's about discipline. We can't afford to lose focus for even a second."
João, ever the entertainer, suddenly stood on his chair and announced, "Don't worry, my friends! João Gabriel Silva Junior will guarantee our victory!" He performed a mock bicycle kick in the air, drawing laughter from nearby tables.
Even Theo couldn't help but chuckle. But deep down, he remained focused, replaying potential scenarios in his head.
As the players returned to their dorms, Theo found himself unable to sleep. He stared at the ceiling, thinking about the journey that had brought him here. His father's relentless criticism, Marcus's shadow looming over him, and now this opportunity to prove that he belonged.
"Tomorrow is my chance," he thought. "I won't let them doubt me anymore."
He turned to his side and saw Minji sitting by the window, looking out into the night. "Can't sleep?" Theo asked.
Minji shook his head. "Too much riding on tomorrow. But hey, no pressure, right?" He grinned, though his eyes betrayed his nervousness.
"Right," Theo replied, though he felt the same weight.
The next morning, the team gathered at the pitch, their black kits gleaming under the early sunlight. Theo could feel his heart pounding in his chest as Coach Kobayashi addressed them. "This is your moment. Go out there and show me why you deserve to wear this jersey. Play smart, play hard, and don't hold back."
The whistle blew, and the game began. Theo quickly realized how high the intensity was right from the start. Every pass, every tackle, and every sprint felt like it carried the weight of a career. Ken, as expected, was a menace on the field, commanding the ball with an arrogance that was hard to ignore.
But Theo's team didn't back down. Minji and Theo worked in perfect sync, creating chances and pressing high up the pitch. Tatsuro pulled off stunning saves, shouting directions to keep the defense organized. Renjiro and Haruka fought tooth and nail, refusing to let Ken's team have an easy route to goal.
The match was a battle, and every player knew it. By the end, everyone was drenched in sweat, but the scoreboard and Coach Kobayashi's notes would decide their fate.