David woke up to the sound of his alarm buzzing at 5:30 AM. His body still ached from yesterday's match, but he pushed the pain aside. Pain was part of the journey.
Today was an important day—the day Coach Danjuma would announce the official squad for the academy's upcoming games.
David had done everything he could. Now, it was up to the coach.
He got out of bed, stretched, and went through his usual morning routine. A quick shower, a short prayer, and a light breakfast in the dining hall. Around him, the tension was thick.
Every player knew what was coming.
Some were confident. Others looked nervous.
David? He was calm.
Malik nudged him as they sat down. "You think you made it?"
David took a bite of his bread and shrugged. "I don't think. I know."
Malik chuckled. "You're too calm for someone whose future is about to be decided."
David smirked. "I did my part. Worrying won't change anything now."
From across the room, Bashir sat with his usual group. His expression was unreadable, but David knew he was just as invested in today's announcement.
The rivalry between them had only just begun.
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At exactly 8:00 AM, the players gathered outside the training ground. Coach Danjuma stood in front of them, holding a clipboard. His sharp eyes scanned the group, making sure everyone was present.
"Listen up!" he called. "I've seen enough from you boys over the past few days. Some of you impressed me. Some of you… didn't."
A few players shifted uncomfortably.
Coach continued, "This academy is not for passengers. If you want to play, you have to prove you belong here. That being said, I'm announcing the 22-man squad for our upcoming friendly matches."
Silence fell. This was it.
The coach cleared his throat and began reading names.
"Goalkeepers: Chinedu Okafor, Tobi Akinwale, Daniel Musa."
"Defenders: Bashir Lawal…"
David saw Bashir's shoulders relax slightly. He had made it.
Coach continued listing names. Then—
"Midfielders: Malik Sani, Abdul Bello… David Afolabi."
David exhaled slowly. He had expected it, but hearing his name made it official. He had made the squad.
He felt a hand on his shoulder. Malik grinned. "Told you."
David just nodded. This was only the first step.
Coach finished the list and looked up. "If I didn't call your name, don't waste my time with complaints. Work harder."
A few disappointed murmurs spread through the group, but no one dared to argue.
Coach clapped his hands. "Training starts in one hour. Get ready!"
The players dispersed, some celebrating, others frustrated.
David stood still for a moment, taking it all in.
He had made the team.
Now, he had to make sure he stayed in it.
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As David walked back to his dorm, he felt a presence behind him.
"Bashir," he said without turning.
The defender stepped up beside him. "You played well."
David raised an eyebrow. Bashir wasn't the type to give compliments.
"But," Bashir added, his tone dropping slightly, "don't think this means you've won."
David smirked. "I never thought that."
Bashir's eyes narrowed. "Good. Because on the pitch, I don't care if you're my teammate. I'll still come for you."
David met his gaze. No fear. No hesitation. "Then I'll be ready."
For a moment, there was silence. Then, Bashir gave a small nod and walked away.
David watched him go.
A rival? Maybe. A threat? Not at all.
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That night, as David lay in bed, his phone buzzed with a message from his father.
"We saw the list. Congratulations, son. Your journey is just beginning. Stay focused. We believe in you."
David's heart swelled with pride.
His family had sacrificed so much for him to be here. He wasn't just chasing his dream—he was carrying their hopes, their faith, their belief in him.
He clenched his fists.
The real fight starts now.