The victory over Granada was a turning point for Sevilla. The team was now on a three-match unbeaten streak, and their confidence was growing. They had climbed further up the league table, but they knew that the battle to secure their place in La Liga was far from over. Lucas, who had been instrumental in their recent success, felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. He was eager to continue leading his team by example and helping them achieve their goals.
The next match was against Real Betis, a fierce local rival. The stakes were high, and the atmosphere in the city was charged with anticipation. The derby was not just about points; it was about pride and bragging rights. Lucas knew that this match would be one of the toughest of the season, but he was ready for the challenge.
In the days leading up to the match, the head coach focused on preparation and mental toughness. "Betis is a strong team, and they'll be playing with a lot of passion. We need to stay calm, play our game, and keep our heads. Let's show them what we're made of."
Lucas spent extra time in training, working on his finishing and tactical awareness. He also reviewed footage of Betis's recent matches, looking for any weaknesses he could exploit. Carlos continued to support him, offering valuable advice and encouragement. "Lucas, remember to stay calm and focused. Play with joy and confidence, and the results will come."
Match day arrived, and the atmosphere at Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium was electric. The fans, energized by the team's recent performances and the importance of the derby, were ready to cheer their heroes to victory. Lucas felt their support and was determined to give them a performance to remember.
From the first whistle, it was clear that Betis had come to fight. They pressed high and played with intensity, making it difficult for Sevilla to find their rhythm. Lucas, starting in his usual attacking midfield role, found himself closely marked and had to work hard to create opportunities.
In the 15th minute, Betis broke through Sevilla's defense and took the lead with a well-placed shot. The early setback was a blow, but Sevilla remained focused. They regrouped and started to press forward, searching for an equalizer.
Lucas, feeling the pressure but also the potential for greatness, began to assert himself on the game. His quick footwork and precise passing created several opportunities for his teammates. In the 30th minute, he delivered a perfectly timed through ball to En-Nesyri, who was brought down just outside the penalty area. Sevilla earned a free kick in a dangerous position.
Lucas stepped up to take the free kick, his heart pounding with anticipation. He struck the ball cleanly, aiming for the top corner. The Betis goalkeeper made a spectacular save, tipping the ball over the bar. The near-miss was frustrating, but Lucas felt a surge of confidence. He knew he was getting closer.
As the first half drew to a close, Sevilla continued to press. Lucas, orchestrating the attack, found himself with another opportunity. He dribbled past two defenders and took a shot from the edge of the box, but the ball sailed just over the crossbar. The crowd groaned in unison, and Lucas felt the sting of another missed chance.
During the halftime break, the head coach's voice was firm and encouraging. "We're playing well, but we need to be more clinical. Keep creating chances, stay focused, and the goals will come."
The second half began with renewed intensity from both sides. Sevilla, determined to turn the game around, pushed forward with more urgency. In the 60th minute, their efforts paid off. Lucas received the ball in midfield, evaded a tackle, and sent a perfectly weighted pass to Navas on the wing. Navas crossed the ball into the box, and En-Nesyri rose above the defenders to head it into the net. The stadium erupted in cheers as Sevilla equalized.
With the score level, the game became even more intense. Both teams fought hard, knowing that a single moment of brilliance could decide the match. Lucas, now brimming with confidence, continued to drive Sevilla's attack. His vision and creativity opened up spaces, but Betis's defense remained resolute.
As the match entered the final ten minutes, the tension was palpable. Sevilla earned a corner kick, and Lucas positioned himself near the edge of the penalty area. The ball was delivered into the box, and a scramble ensued. The ball fell to Lucas's feet, and he quickly took a shot, but it was blocked by a defender. The ball rebounded to a Betis player, who launched a counter-attack.
Betis surged forward with pace, and Sevilla's defense scrambled to get back. In a moment of panic, one of Sevilla's defenders made a rash challenge, conceding a free kick in a dangerous position. The stadium fell silent as Betis prepared to take the shot.
The Betis player stepped up and confidently struck the ball, but Sevilla's goalkeeper made a stunning save to keep the game level. The crowd erupted in relief, and Lucas felt a renewed sense of determination.
With only minutes left on the clock, Sevilla launched one final attack. Lucas picked up the ball in his own half and started a blistering run down the field. He dribbled past one defender, then another, using his speed and skill to leave them behind. As he approached the edge of the penalty area, he saw a small gap and decided to go for it.
With a swift motion, Lucas curled the ball with the outside of his right foot. The shot arced beautifully over the outstretched hands of the goalkeeper and nestled into the top corner of the net. The stadium erupted like a volcano, the noise deafening as fans celebrated the stunning goal.
Lucas was mobbed by his teammates, their faces filled with joy and admiration. "Incredible goal, Lucas! You've done it again!" En-Nesyri shouted, lifting Lucas off his feet.
The final whistle blew moments later, sealing a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Sevilla. The relief and jubilation were palpable. The players embraced, the fans sang and cheered, and the energy in the stadium was electric.
In the locker room, the atmosphere was jubilant. The head coach praised the team's resilience and Lucas's match-winning goal. "That was an incredible performance. We showed great character and determination. Lucas, your goal was extraordinary. Well done, everyone."
Carlos called Lucas later that evening, his voice filled with pride. "Lucas, that was an amazing run and goal. You're showing great resilience and determination. Keep enjoying the game and playing with freedom."
Lucas smiled, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction. "Thanks, Carlos. It feels amazing. I'll keep working hard."
That evening, Lucas called his family to share the news. His mother, Maria, was ecstatic. "Lucas, we saw the goal! It was incredible. We're so proud of you."
His father, João, added, "You showed true grit and determination. Keep it up, son."
Sofia, ever the enthusiastic supporter, chimed in, "Lucas, you're a superstar! That goal was amazing."
Their words of encouragement filled Lucas with warmth and happiness. He knew that their support had been crucial in helping him through the tough times and celebrating the triumphs.
As Lucas lay in bed that night, he reflected on the journey so far. The challenges, the setbacks, and the moments of brilliance had all shaped him into the player he was becoming. He knew that the road ahead would still have its ups and downs, but he felt ready to face them with confidence and resilience.
The future was bright, and Lucas was determined to make the most of it. With each match, he continued to learn and grow, driven by his passion for the game and his desire to succeed. The journey from a small town in Brazil to playing in La Liga had been incredible, and Lucas knew that the best was yet to come.