Chapter 23:
Adriano was a filial son.
Whenever Atlético Madrid played an away game, his routine never changed. After breakfast with the team and before resting back in his room, he always made time to call his parents in Madrid.
His conversations were filled with concern: reminding his father to take his medicine, warning his parents against eating leftovers, and urging them to be cautious at work.
When Adriano renegotiated his contract with Atlético, earning a significantly higher salary, the first thing he did was insist that his parents quit their jobs.
"You don't need to work anymore," he argued.
Family Priorities
Yet his parents resisted, fearing for their son's long-term career prospects and wanting to save money to buy a house in Madrid or Brazil.
The dispute escalated to the point where Yang Hao had to intervene to mediate.
In the locker room, everyone knew that when Adriano became stubborn, only the coach could handle him.
Super Cup Morning
The morning of the European Super Cup was no different. After breakfast, Adriano returned to his room and immediately dialed home.
Deco, his roommate, found the routine endearing and slightly amusing.
"I'm doing great, Dad, I promise. The coach even praises me all the time," Adriano reassured his father. "No, don't worry about me. Just focus on your health!"
Hearing this, Deco couldn't suppress a laugh.
The towering, fearsome striker, feared by defenders across Europe, had such a soft and tender side.
Adriano shot Deco a mock glare, covering the phone's microphone. His expression seemed to say, "Laugh one more time, and I'll kill you!"
Deco quickly raised his hands in surrender and retreated to the bathroom.
A Knock on the Door
While Adriano continued to chat with his parents, there was a knock at the door.
"Come back later," he shouted, assuming it was housekeeping.
He continued on the phone.
"It's just the hotel staff, Mom. They'll clean up later. Anyway, you're nagging again…"
The knock persisted.
Annoyed, Adriano sighed. "Hold on, Mom. I'll deal with this."
Opening the door, he was surprised to find Yang Hao standing there.
"Coach?!"
Yang Hao raised an eyebrow, glancing suspiciously into the room. "What are you two up to, acting all secretive?"
"Nothing!" Adriano stammered, holding up his phone. "Just my parents—they wouldn't stop talking!"
Yang Hao smirked, unconvinced.
"Right, because they're known for racking up long-distance charges..."
Hurriedly ending the call, Adriano stepped aside to let Yang Hao in.
"Boss is here!" Adriano shouted toward the bathroom.
Deco emerged sheepishly, avoiding eye contact.
Yang Hao took a seat and surveyed the room.
"Messy. Is this what you call professional standards?"
Deco awkwardly pointed to the bed.
"It's the hotel staff—they haven't come by yet!"
Adriano chuckled, knowing Yang Hao wouldn't dwell on trivial matters.
Game Plan for Bayern Munich
Yang Hao got straight to business.
"Have you reviewed Bayern's defensive structure?"
Both players nodded earnestly. They had studied the materials prepared by the coaching staff in detail.
Bayern's Defensive Setup
The reports highlighted Bayern's preferred setups:
Four-Man Defense: Their most common formation.
Three-Man Defense: Often a disguised five-man backline, with full-backs Lizarazu and Sagnol advancing into midfield during transitions.
Last season, Bayern's extreme caution was evident in their Champions League semifinal against Real Madrid, where they deployed five defenders and three defensive midfielders.
Yang Hao explained,
"Their strategy was to sit deep, absorb pressure, and rely on counterattacks, which worked because of Elber's brilliance up front. Against a front four of Zidane, Figo, Morientes, and Raúl, you can't go toe-to-toe."
However, Bayern's defensive vulnerability remained: their center-backs weren't particularly tall or physically imposing, especially after selling Patrik Andersson to Barcelona.
Specific Instructions
For Deco
"Deco, if they go with three at the back, Lizarazu and Sagnol will push forward. That creates gaps on the flanks," Yang Hao pointed out.
"When you and Baraja orchestrate attacks, focus on diagonal passes to exploit those openings. Our wingers will be ready to cut in."
Deco nodded, immediately grasping the tactical intent.
For Adriano
Yang Hao turned to his striker.
"Adriano, when Deco drops deep, the space between their backline and midfield will open up. That's your playground. Stay active, keep moving, and create opportunities. The more you disrupt their defense, the easier it'll be for the team to find you."
Adriano nodded eagerly, absorbing every word.
Yang Hao emphasized the importance of instinct and anticipation.
"When the ball shifts to the flanks, I don't care where you are—sprint into the box immediately. Always be ready!"
"Got it," Adriano replied with determination.
A Final Word
As the meeting concluded, Yang Hao stood and clapped both players on the shoulders.
"This is Bayern Munich. They're strong, but they're not invincible. Trust in yourselves and your teammates. We're not just here to compete; we're here to win."
With that, he left the room, leaving the two players to mentally prepare for the challenge ahead.
The stage was set for Atlético Madrid to face Bayern Munich in the European Super Cup. Yang Hao's strategies were clear. Now, it was up to the players to deliver.
In a 4-2-3-1 formation, the offensive strategy often revolves around the No. 10 attacking midfielder.
Switch to a 4-3-3, however, and the key to success shifts to the striker.
The distinction is straightforward:
If your team lacks strong individual talent but has a reliable playmaker, 4-2-3-1 offers stability and maximizes that playmaker's potential.
On the other hand, if your players possess exceptional individual skills, the 4-3-3 is the better choice as it allows them to fully exploit their strengths.
"If Bayern lines up with four defenders, I want you to go all out," Yang Hao said firmly to Adriano. "Pin their two center-backs—whether it's Kuffour, Robert Kovač, or Thomas Linke. None of them can handle you!"
Yang Hao had complete confidence in Adriano's ability. The striker, in turn, trusted both his own skills and his coach's judgment.
Preparing for Bayern's Threats
Ahead of the pre-match tactical meeting, Yang Hao had already held individual discussions with players about specific strategies. The morning session therefore focused primarily on defensive assignments.
While Bayern's Giovane Élber needed no introduction, Yang Hao made a special point of highlighting Carsten Jancker.
Carsten Jancker: A Tactical Weapon
Many fans associate the term "tactical forward" with later players like Drogba, but Jancker was one of the earliest examples of this role.
At 1.93 meters tall, the German striker was a towering and powerful presence. Though lacking in technique, speed, and scoring efficiency, his ability to create space and disrupt defenders made him a nightmare for opposing backlines.
Bayern had two distinct attacking styles:
Élber, their traditional goal-scoring forward.
Jancker, who could disrupt defenses through sheer physicality and link-up play.
But Ottmar Hitzfeld's tactics were rarely predictable. He could use Jancker as a decoy to draw defensive attention, creating opportunities for other players, or he might rely on Jancker to finish attacks himself.
"Whatever strategy Bayern employs, Jancker is a pivotal point," Yang Hao explained. "We must prioritize him in our defensive setup."
Yang Hao's Rallying Call
After outlining the tactical approach, Yang Hao turned his attention to motivation.
"As always, I won't hide my true intentions from you."
"My goal tonight is victory. Our season's objective is nothing less than the La Liga title and the Champions League."
Yang Hao's voice grew resolute.
"But we need this match to show us where we truly stand. Can we rise to the challenge? Do we deserve to compete at the highest level?"
Bayern Munich, reigning Champions League winners, presented the perfect benchmark.
Forgetting the Noise
Yang Hao addressed the media narratives swirling around the game:
"You'll hear a lot of talk about winning or losing, about whether we claim a historic fourth trophy or Bayern crushes this Cinderella story. But none of that matters."
"What matters is clarity. This match will show us how strong we are, how much we've grown, and how far we still need to go."
"If we can defeat Bayern, we can challenge for the Champions League and defend our La Liga title. But even if we fall short, this game will teach us what's required to scale those heights."
In the room, the players listened intently, their expressions serious but brimming with determination. Their eyes burned with the hunger of men desperate for a breakthrough.
"I've said it before—I believe in each of you. Together, we have the talent to become the best team in Europe. Last season's La Liga and UEFA Cup triumphs proved that."
"But it's not enough, is it?"
The room fell silent. Yang Hao leaned forward, locking eyes with his players.
"Forget the outcome. Forget the title. Forget everything else. Tonight is about one thing only: measuring ourselves against Bayern Munich."
"If we can match or surpass them, we're ready to storm La Liga. We're ready to storm the Champions League!"
The Stage: Stade Louis II, Monaco
Monaco, a tiny principality, hosted the European Super Cup at the modest Stade Louis II, with a capacity of just under 14,000.
Despite its size, the event was a spectacle. As always, it drew a mix of football royalty, political elites, and global celebrities.
Among the notable attendees were UEFA President Lennart Johansson, French football icon Michel Platini, German legend Franz Beckenbauer, and Spanish Football Federation President Ángel Villar.
As Johansson entered the VIP section, accompanied by Platini, Beckenbauer, and Villar, the crowd erupted in applause.
Yang Hao, standing on the touchline, glanced toward the commotion. The sight of the UEFA dignitaries prompted a brief moment of reflection.
A World of Power Players
Yang Hao couldn't help but marvel at the intricate web of influence on display.
Platini, once a celebrated French footballer, had risen to prominence as the chairman of the 1998 World Cup Organizing Committee. After the tournament, he quickly climbed the ranks of FIFA, serving under then-president Sepp Blatter.
Beckenbauer, Germany's "Kaiser," was a dual force in football and politics, seamlessly navigating both arenas.
Villar, Spain's football chief, wielded significant sway within both UEFA and FIFA, holding key roles in their refereeing committees.
And yet, Yang Hao couldn't help but ponder:
"With Villar in such a powerful position, how did Spain still get robbed by South Korea at the 2002 World Cup?"
It baffled him. Spain and Italy—two European heavyweights—both fell victim to blatant officiating errors in that tournament.
"And to think UEFA's refereeing committee was chaired by an Italian at the time! How could both nations get blindsided like that?"
Shaking his head, Yang Hao refocused. The intrigue of football politics was fascinating, but tonight, his sole concern was Bayern Munich.
It was time for Atlético Madrid to prove their mettle.
So, after Spain was eliminated from the World Cup under controversial circumstances, Ángel Villar resigned from the UEFA Referees Committee in protest.
The intricate web of political maneuvering surrounding that decision could easily fill an entire novel in the competitive sports drama section on Qidian.
But for now, no one knows what twists and turns the next year will bring. Everyone remains united under the banner of Europe's figurative football emperor, Lennart Johansson.
Yang Hao let these fleeting thoughts pass through his mind and refocused on the field. At that moment, both teams were entering the pitch.
Bayern's Lineup: A Three-Defender Setup
Ottmar Hitzfeld had opted for a three-center-back formation, a tactical choice that raised a few eyebrows.
Among the three defenders was not Samuel Kuffour but Guinea international Pablo Thiam.
Thiam, 27 years old and standing at 1.86 meters, had joined Bayern on a free transfer from Stuttgart during the summer. A natural defensive midfielder, his strength and physicality had earned him a place in Bayern's backline.
As the teams set up, Bayern's formation revealed itself to be a 3-4-3:
Goalkeeper: Oliver Kahn
Defenders: Robert Kovač, Pablo Thiam, and Thomas Linke
Midfielders: Bixente Lizarazu, Owen Hargreaves, Ciriaco Sforza, and Willy Sagnol
Forwards: Hasan Salihamidžić, Giovane Élber, and Claudio Pizarro
The bench included options like Carsten Jancker and Roque Santa Cruz, ensuring Bayern had depth in attack.
Hitzfeld's Stubborn Gambit
Seeing Bayern's lineup, Yang Hao immediately guessed Ottmar Hitzfeld's intent.
"See? I told you he'd stick to a three-center-back formation," Yang Hao said with a grin as he returned to the Atlético bench.
"That old man is just too stubborn," replied Juanma Lillo, shrugging.
But was it stubbornness or calculated strategy?
Bayern's season opener had seen them lose 1-0 to Borussia Mönchengladbach, but Thiam hadn't played in that match. In the three subsequent fixtures, with Thiam in the lineup, Bayern had recorded two wins and one draw.
Hitzfeld had returned to his roots, deploying a libero system reminiscent of football's free-role golden age. Thiam played as a roving defender, often driving forward into midfield to disrupt opposition attacks and initiate Bayern's play.
Given Thiam's strength, speed, and decent technical ability for a defender, this strategy was hard to counter.
A Free Role Revival
Yang Hao chuckled as he analyzed Bayern's setup.
"You know, Juanma, the older someone gets, the more they cling to past glories."
Hitzfeld's fondness for Germany's libero system was well-known. During his days coaching Dortmund to a Champions League title, Matthias Sammer had excelled in the role. Similarly, when Hitzfeld moved to Bayern, Lothar Matthäus had served as a key libero.
Last season, Bayern's Champions League triumph had leaned heavily on their three-center-back formation. Swedish defender Patrik Andersson had been pivotal, ensuring a rock-solid defense.
"Say what you will about Barça's management, but they don't sign players without doing their homework. If Andersson was their target, he must've been worth it," Yang Hao thought to himself.
But Hitzfeld wasn't alone in his nostalgia for the libero era. Many German coaches were still trying to revive the glory days of that system. While modern tacticians might mock such adherence as outdated in 2023, in 2001, Bayern's success made it seem like a perfectly valid approach.
What the Legends Were Saying
Over on the VIP stand, Franz Beckenbauer, surrounded by luminaries like Platini and Villar, seemed particularly confident in his team's chances.
"I had coffee with Ottmar this afternoon," Beckenbauer said, gesturing toward the field. "He told me he's starting to feel it again—the rhythm, the momentum. He believes Bayern has a great chance this season, even to defend the Champions League title."
The comment elicited chuckles from the group—not derisive laughter, but a reaction to Beckenbauer's ever-optimistic spirit.
"Football tactics change with time," Beckenbauer continued. "But the essence of the game remains the same."
Platini chimed in:
"I think Thiam might be too tall for a libero. Look at Germany's best: Beckenbauer, Sammer—they weren't much over 1.80 meters. Matthäus was even shorter."
The reasoning was simple. Taller players often lacked the agility and technical skill required for the role. Liberos needed to be quick, adaptable, and excellent with the ball at their feet.
Beckenbauer responded with a smile:
"He's taller, yes, but his speed compensates. When he surges forward, you can see his potential."
Yang Hao's Perspective
Back on the Atlético bench, Yang Hao reflected on the nostalgia permeating Hitzfeld's tactics.
"If I were in his shoes, with three strong performances and the memory of a Champions League-winning season, I'd probably double down on the libero system too," he admitted to himself.
Bayern's recent history gave Hitzfeld every reason to believe in his system. In the 1999/2000 Champions League campaign, Bayern had demolished Real Madrid twice in the second group stage, winning 4-1 at home and 4-2 away.
Both matches had featured Matthäus in the libero role.
"There's a reason people keep looking back to that era," Yang Hao thought. "For Bayern, the libero was their golden ticket."
Now, Hitzfeld hoped to replicate that success with Pablo Thiam.
Bayern's Strengths and Weaknesses
Yang Hao's respect for Hitzfeld's tactical mind was evident, but so was his confidence in his own team's abilities.
"Let's see how well this new libero of yours holds up," he mused.
While Bayern's system had its merits, Yang Hao knew it wasn't flawless. If Atlético's forwards could exploit the spaces left by Thiam's forward runs or isolate Bayern's other defenders, they might have a real chance.
Tonight wasn't just about winning a trophy; it was about proving Atlético's place among Europe's elite.
It was time to test Bayern's nostalgia against Atlético's ambition.
Soon after, Yang Hao smiled and said, "When it comes to speed and agility, you can always count on African players."
The group around him burst into laughter once again.
"If that's the case, I might start worrying about Atlético tonight," Lennart Johansson joked with a grin.
For them, the outcome of the game didn't really matter. This match was nothing more than a spectacle, a grand showpiece.
"Atlético does have some competitiveness," Ángel Villar interjected, feeling the need to back the Spanish team.
Franz Beckenbauer nodded in agreement.
"They're not bad. That young coach's 4-2-3-1 system last season had some interesting aspects, though nothing groundbreaking. That's a problem with La Liga right now—everyone is playing 4-2-3-1, with similar styles and tactics. It gets a bit monotonous."
"I agree," Michel Platini chimed in. "A league needs variety to stay exciting."
As Atlético's lineup took shape on the pitch, Deco and Adriano stood in the center circle to kick off, while Vicente and Joaquín positioned themselves on the flanks. At first glance, it seemed as though Atlético was sticking to last season's familiar 4-2-3-1 formation.
Predicting the Outcome
"Not bad, but extraordinary? Hardly," Beckenbauer commented. "The kid won the UEFA Cup at 26, sure. But he's still learning, building his experience. Who knows? He might make it someday. But a prodigy? That's overstating it."
To Beckenbauer, himself a coaching and playing prodigy, Yang Hao's tactical approach lacked the brilliance to justify such a title.
"What he's doing isn't revolutionary. At best, it's minor innovation within La Liga's 4-2-3-1 framework."
Johansson, sensing the playful atmosphere, decided to pose a question:
"Franz, what do you predict the score will be?"
Beckenbauer thought for a moment, then confidently raised two fingers.
"2-0. We'll win."
He wore a knowing smile, exuding confidence in Bayern's players and Ottmar Hitzfeld's strategies.
Johansson turned to Platini.
"Michel, what about you?"
Platini smirked, glancing at both Beckenbauer and Villar.
"2-1. Bayern wins by a narrow margin."
Finally, Johansson looked at Villar.
"Ángel?"
"I think it'll end in a draw within 90 minutes. Atlético's defense is solid," Villar replied cautiously.
Beckenbauer shook his head.
"Do you know why we spent €7.5 million to sign Pizarro from Werder Bremen? He scored 19 goals in the Bundesliga last season. He's versatile, just like Élber. Together, they're a deadly combination."
He continued, "We brought in Robert Kovač to strengthen the defense, Niko Kovač for midfield, and now Pizarro for the attack. There's no way Atlético can hold us off tonight."
Platini nodded in agreement.
"It'll be tough for them to defend against Bayern, especially in the second half. Once their stamina drops, they'll also have to contend with Jancker."
With their deep squad and varied tactical options, Bayern had assembled a team designed to dominate both the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
To them, only Real Madrid posed a real challenge. Atlético? They weren't even on the radar.
Villar, unwilling to prolong the debate, chose to remain silent.
The Match Begins
The referee, Vítor Pereira from Portugal, blew the whistle to start the match.
Atlético kicked off, but Bayern immediately pressed high, with Élber, Pizarro, and Salihamidžić leading the charge.
Caught under pressure, Atlético resorted to a long pass forward, but it was intercepted by Pablo Thiam, who headed it back toward the midfield.
Bayern wasted no time launching an attack. Sforza sent a long ball toward Atlético's right defensive flank. Élber sprinted into the space behind the defense, but van der Sar rushed out to claim the ball near the edge of the penalty area.
The Dutch goalkeeper quickly launched a long pass aimed at Adriano, but the referee blew for a foul as Adriano tussled with Linke in the aerial duel.
Bayern took the free kick quickly, with Hargreaves switching the ball to the left flank. Robert Kovač passed it forward to Lizarazu, who immediately attempted a lofted pass targeting Pizarro and Élber in the box.
Lucio positioned himself perfectly to clear the ball with a header, sending it to Cambiasso. The Argentine controlled it with his chest before playing a pass to the left flank.
Adjusting the Pace
"Hey, Fábio!"
Yang Hao shouted from the sidelines, drawing the attention of left-back Fábio Aurélio, who was close to the technical area.
"Slow it down a bit! Keep the rhythm steady—don't rush!" Yang Hao instructed.
"Got it," Aurélio responded, but he was quickly pressed by a Bayern defender. Forced to retreat, he passed the ball back to Ricardo Carvalho.
Bayern maintained their pressure, forcing another back pass to Cambiasso, who played it all the way to van der Sar. Finally, Bayern eased off their aggressive press.
Atlético began stringing together passes in their own half, stabilizing possession. Yang Hao signaled for the team to drop deeper and tighten their formation.
"The opening minutes stretched our lines too much," Yang Hao observed.
With the players spaced too far apart, passing accuracy diminished, and options for link-up play became limited.
By the second minute, van der Sar had the ball at his feet again. Raising his hand to signal patience, he encouraged the team to control the tempo.
A Sudden Long Ball
Just as everyone expected Atlético to continue circulating the ball in defense, van der Sar caught Bayern off guard with a sudden long ball.
His kick soared across the pitch, landing in Bayern's 30-meter zone.
Bayern's defense scrambled to recover as Adriano sprinted forward to contest the ball. The Brazilian managed to win the first touch, heading it toward the right flank.
Joaquín burst onto the loose ball, controlled it, and delivered a quick diagonal cross into the penalty area, targeting Adriano.
However, Linke intercepted with a well-timed header, clearing the danger.
The second ball fell to Hargreaves, who headed it further out, but it was picked up by Rubén Baraja.
Baraja passed it to Deco, but Bayern's defensive line began pushing forward, resetting their structure.
The game was heating up. Both teams were probing each other's weaknesses, and the energy on the field was palpable. The tension in the stands mirrored the intensity on the pitch.
At that moment, Deco suddenly passed the ball to Aurélio, who launched a long pass to Bayern's defensive line.
"Adriano makes a rapid run! One-on-one!"
"My God..."
"The linesman's flag is up!"
The entire Stade Louis II erupted with relief from Bayern fans and disappointment from Atlético supporters.
Atlético's attack had come suddenly, but Adriano mistimed his run and was caught offside.
Bayern Counterattacks
"Atlético's attack was sharp," the commentator noted.
"Now look at Bayern—Kahn with a quick restart!"
Kahn's goal kick found Thiam, who shifted the ball to the left.
Lizarazu advanced along the flank, but Rubén Baraja stayed tight, forcing him toward the sideline. Belletti shadowed from behind, wary of any sudden moves. Cambiasso joined the defensive effort, helping Atlético regain control of that zone.
Baraja seized an opportunity to intercept, tackling the ball away while tripping Lizarazu in the process.
The referee waved play on. Baraja quickly passed to Cambiasso, who deftly let the ball roll past him to avoid a pressing Sforza. After taking a few strides forward, Cambiasso delivered a precise diagonal long ball to Bayern's defensive left side—Atlético's right flank.
Joaquín sprinted down the line to chase Cambiasso's pass. He jumped to control the ball with his chest, knocking it forward, then caught up to secure it at his feet.
Joaquín's Magic
With Kovač closing in, Joaquín hesitated for a brief moment. Then, with a sudden feint, he evaded Kovač, pushing the ball toward the byline.
From the right edge of the penalty box, Joaquín whipped in a cross.
Adriano surged into the box, splitting between Thiam and Linke. Joaquín's cross sailed directly into his path. The Brazilian leapt high, meeting the ball with a powerful header just before Kahn could intercept.
The ball deflected downward, slipping between Kahn's outstretched arms and into the back of Bayern's net.
Adriano collided with Kahn mid-air, both crashing to the ground.
But as Adriano fell, his eyes caught the ball rolling into the goal. He let out a triumphant roar, sprang to his feet, and dashed toward the sidelines, arms outstretched in jubilation.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"
"Just over three minutes into the match, Atlético takes the lead!"
"Adriano, with a thunderous header, breaks through Bayern Munich's defense!"
The commentator continued, "Kahn is furious with his defense, especially with how easily Atlético exploited the space around Thiam's position!"
Celebrations and Reactions
Adriano sprinted to the stands where Atlético fans erupted in cheers, chanting his name.
The scoreboard flipped from 0-0 to 0-1.
Atlético had drawn first blood!
In the VIP box, Ángel Villar nearly leapt from his seat in celebration but quickly composed himself, suppressing a grin.
Turning his head, he caught Platini trying—and failing—not to smile.
Meanwhile, Beckenbauer sat in awkward silence.
Moments earlier, he had confidently predicted a 2-0 victory for Bayern. Now, Atlético's swift and skillful play had exposed Bayern's defense.
Worse still, Adriano's goal targeted the weak spot in Thiam's zone.
"Atlético has always had strong starts," Johansson remarked casually.
The comment prompted laughter among the group, diffusing the tension.
Beckenbauer sighed, shaking his head.
"Our start has been absolutely terrible."
For a single-match final, conceding so early placed Bayern at a severe disadvantage.
"But I still believe we can turn this around."
Bayern Struggles to Respond
As the match resumed, Bayern pushed aggressively to equalize, but their haste led to disjointed attacks.
Atlético, meanwhile, leaned into their 4-3-3 strategy. They deliberately slowed the tempo, using precise passes to maintain possession and lure Bayern into overcommitting.
Bayern's first dangerous chance came in the 7th minute.
Atlético attempted a pass into Bayern's penalty area, but Thiam intercepted with a well-timed challenge.
Instead of passing, Thiam charged forward, showcasing impressive speed and strength. By the time most players realized, Thiam was near Atlético's penalty area, delivering a lofted pass toward the far post, aiming for Pizarro.
Van der Sar read the play perfectly, rushing out to pluck the ball from the air just before Pizarro could connect.
Thiam's Impact
Thiam's blistering run caught everyone's attention.
Unlike Lucio's cautious forays forward, Thiam fearlessly surged deep into the opposition's territory, almost reaching the penalty area.
"This Thiam is something special," Platini said, nodding in admiration.
Beckenbauer, sensing a moment of vindication, added,
"His speed, ball control, and physicality make him an excellent libero. With players like him, the libero system could regain its former glory."
For Beckenbauer, the libero position represented the pinnacle of German football. He firmly believed that restoring this role was key to reclaiming Germany's dominance.
Bayern Intensifies the Pressure
Emboldened by Thiam's successful charge, Bayern ramped up their offensive efforts.
As the reigning Champions League winners, they were determined to avoid the humiliation of losing to a supposed underdog.
Pride and ambition fueled their attack, but Atlético's composure and tactical discipline kept them in control.
This was no ordinary match—it was a clash between Bayern's storied legacy and Atlético's bold aspirations to challenge Europe's elite.
"The ball remains under Atlético's control."
"Bayern has set up their defensive line near the halfway mark, with Sagnol pressing alongside Vicente."
"Vicente receives the ball and passes it back to Aurélio."
"The Bayern fans applaud warmly."
"Bayern's defense is well-organized this time."
"Aurélio passes to Carvalho, who relays it to Lucio."
"Bayern's forwards are preparing to press high."
"In the middle, Cambiasso drops deep to receive the ball—he's unmarked."
"Now watch this, the ball is played forward to Deco."
"Deco with a diagonal ball over the top! Sagnol and Vicente are racing for it."
"Atlético's quick counterattack is on!"
"Vicente gets there first, pushes into the box, moves to the byline, and crosses it into the goalmouth."
"Adriano dummies it—it's at the back post…"
"Joaquín arrives!"
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
"In the 25th minute, Atlético doubles their lead!"
"Again, it's from the flanks, exploiting the space behind Bayern's defensive line."
"Vicente's movement on the left drew Thomas Linke out of position. Adriano, meanwhile, kept both Thiam and Robert Kovač occupied, leaving Joaquín completely unmarked at the far post."
"Adriano's dummy was brilliant! Under pressure from two defenders and with Kahn watching him closely, a shot would've been difficult. His decision to let it go was perfect, allowing Joaquín to finish."
"This is pure chemistry!"
"Joaquín was perfectly positioned at the back post to capitalize."
"Tonight, Atlético's wings are on fire."
Bayern's Defensive Woes
The replay of the goal highlighted Bayern's tactical vulnerability.
"Once again, Bayern's three-man backline is struggling to cope with the space on the flanks," the commentator observed.
"Lizarazu and Sagnol are playing more like wingbacks, leaving a significant gap between the wingbacks and the central defenders. This creates a no-man's-land that Atlético is exploiting masterfully."
"In theory, Lizarazu and Sagnol are supposed to track back quickly, but football is fast-paced. Players often can't adjust in time."
"Take this play as an example—Sagnol tracked Vicente, but when Deco's through ball was played, Vicente simply outran him, driving into the box unchallenged."
"Perhaps Ottmar Hitzfeld needs to reconsider his three-man defense."
Hitzfeld's Struggles
On the Bayern bench, Hitzfeld covered his mouth with his hand, his eyes fixed on the field. His assistant, Michael Henke, leaned in to voice his concerns.
"Our flanks are a major problem," Henke said.
Hitzfeld remained silent, his furrowed brows betraying his growing anxiety.
It was 0-2.
Worse, Atlético was controlling both the ball and the tempo, leaving Bayern on the back foot.
Hitzfeld had tried pushing his team forward to disrupt Atlético's rhythm, but Atlético's quick, precise passing repeatedly bypassed Bayern's press. The players on the pitch realized their high pressing was ineffective and started hesitating to commit.
Hitzfeld had seen it all before, but this time, he was surprised.
"When did Atlético start playing like this?" he muttered.
In his mind, Atlético's style was always more physical—more grit than grace. Their limited finances meant they couldn't attract highly technical players.
Even their league and UEFA Cup triumphs last season had been built on a rugged, no-nonsense approach. Tonight, however, was different.
"They're deliberately slowing the game down, waiting for us to overextend so they can exploit the flanks," Henke observed.
"They're not incapable of playing fast; they're choosing not to. Their players know each other well, and their passing is seamless—mostly one-touch."
This was why Bayern's pressing had been so ineffective. Whenever Bayern surged forward, Atlético simply shifted the ball out of reach and pounced on the exposed flanks.
Hitzfeld nodded, acknowledging Henke's point.
"Our problem isn't the formation—it's the early goal," he replied.
Henke hesitated but conceded the point. Football is unpredictable; sometimes, a single early mistake can dictate the flow of the match.
Targeting Thiam
"I still think Thiam is a liability," Henke insisted.
"What do you mean?"
"Adriano keeps targeting his zone."
"That's normal; he's the central striker."
Every tactical system has its weaknesses. The libero role thrives on aggressive forward runs but leaves gaps at the back when the libero can't recover in time. Hitzfeld had accounted for this by instructing Linke and Kovač to shift inward whenever Thiam pushed forward.
So far, this had limited Adriano's effectiveness.
The real issue was Bayern's lack of creativity up front.
With Effenberg injured, Hitzfeld had hoped Scholl and Sforza could fill the void. But the aging "Tiger" was no longer the force he once was, and injuries were beginning to take their toll.
Scholl and Sforza's performances tonight had been underwhelming. Sforza, in particular, had struggled in the libero role, despite his technical versatility and past success under Hitzfeld.
This was why Bayern had brought in Thiam—an unconventional choice, but one Hitzfeld believed in.
Atlético's Masterclass
As the match progressed, Atlético's dominance only grew. Bayern's desperation to claw back into the game left them increasingly exposed at the back.
Atlético, with their calculated approach and lethal execution, was giving the reigning European champions a masterclass in tactical flexibility.
For Bayern, the dream of turning the match around was slipping away.
Guinea international Thiam possessed the physicality needed for a defender, more so than Sforza.
Tonight, with Sforza partnering Hargreaves in midfield, the Swiss midfielder had been virtually invisible. Half an hour into the game, it was as though he wasn't even on the pitch.
Bayern's struggles in midfield were closely tied to Sforza's poor performance.
"We need to make a change in midfield," Hitzfeld sighed in frustration.
Michael Henke, his trusted assistant, understood what the veteran coach meant but hesitated. "This is just the UEFA Super Cup—let's wait until halftime."
How important is the UEFA Super Cup?
It's still a European trophy, no doubt.
But there was another layer of complexity: Sforza had been openly critical of Hitzfeld's decision to deploy him as a libero and in other unorthodox roles, even airing grievances in the media. After significant effort to restore harmony, the last thing Hitzfeld needed was to provoke another outburst by subbing him out prematurely.
Even a halftime substitution could risk disrupting the dressing room dynamic.
Hitzfeld mulled over Henke's advice and reluctantly agreed. However, he couldn't ignore the glaring issue. Bayern's midfield was aging, and recent injuries had exacerbated the problem.
In their league match against Bayer Leverkusen, Scholl—at 30 years old—suffered an injury.
With Effenberg and Scholl sidelined, Sforza's standout performance against St. Pauli in the fourth round of the Bundesliga had earned him a starting spot tonight.
But against Atlético, Sforza was utterly outclassed.
Hitzfeld realized, painfully, that Atlético was no St. Pauli.
A Calculated Trap
"Deco!"
Yang Hao called out to his playmaker from the sideline.
During a dead-ball moment, Deco quickly jogged over.
"I've noticed that when Bayern struggles to break through, Thiam often steps up with the ball."
That's the libero's role, after all.
"You and Rubén talk this over—tell Adriano to let him go free."
"You mean…"
"Pressure Linke and Kovač, force the ball to Thiam. Once he takes it up, you and Rubén…"
Yang Hao mimed a quick chokehold with both hands, making his intention crystal clear.
"Got it."
"Also, remind Adriano to ease off on Thiam."
"Understood."
After sending Deco back, Yang Hao turned his gaze to Hitzfeld on the opposite bench.
As much as Yang Hao respected the veteran coach, it was clear to him that the era of three-center-back formations and libero tactics was long over.
Hitzfeld, however, had clung to the dream of reviving the glory of the libero system—especially after last season's success.
Human nature is often dictated by inertia.
Hitzfeld's mastery of the three-center-back system and libero tactics, combined with Bayern's familiarity with it, gave him the confidence that this strategy could continue delivering results.
But times had changed.
Yang Hao couldn't predict whether the libero role would someday experience a renaissance, as three-center-back systems had in his original timeline.
For now, though, in 2001, the libero was a relic of the past.
The Bait
Adriano quickly received Deco's instructions.
For the Brazilian striker, the task was straightforward: when Linke or Kovač had the ball, he'd press them aggressively. But when Thiam received it, he'd hold his position, allowing the Guinea international the freedom to advance.
However, Thiam seemed cautious, often opting to pass rather than charge forward.
To draw him out, Vicente and Joaquín began intensifying their harassment of Bayern's defensive line. This forced Thiam into situations where passing to Linke or Kovač became difficult, and the wingbacks, Lizarazu and Sagnol, were often too far for a safe pass.
Time ticked by.
Atlético's young players, hardened by last season's campaigns, remained patient and disciplined. They trusted Yang Hao's tactics and waited for the perfect opportunity.
Finally, as the clock edged toward the 40th minute, with Bayern growing desperate to mount an attack, the moment arrived.
Thiam, feeling the mounting pressure, received the ball from Linke. Spotting Kovač on his left but noticing Joaquín nearby, he hesitated.
With few options, he decided to advance himself. His pace and dribbling were impressive, but as he crossed midfield, Rubén Baraja pounced.
Baraja's explosiveness made him an ideal disruptor, and his well-timed challenge left Thiam scrambling to shield the ball.
Before Thiam could recover, Deco closed in from the other side.
The two Atlético midfielders converged, trapping Thiam in a pincer movement.
"Thiam hesitates! Atlético's midfielders close in!"
"Deco steals the ball!"
Deco surged forward, evading Thiam's desperate attempt to grab his jersey. With a quick touch, he bypassed the Guinea international entirely and drove into Bayern's half.
Sagnol rushed to intercept him, while Linke, preoccupied with Vicente on the left, couldn't cover the middle.
Deco timed his pass perfectly, sending it ahead to Adriano, who found himself in acres of space.
"No Bayern player is within ten meters of Adriano!"
The Brazilian striker controlled the ball, turned, and saw Kovač rushing toward him.
Adriano took one powerful stride forward, charging into the box like an unstoppable force.
The Brazilian striker's speed was electrifying. Once Adriano picked up pace, Bayern's two center-backs couldn't keep up.
Linke and Kovač scrambled to close him down, attempting to block his path. But Adriano knocked the ball forward and surged past them like a freight train. He reached the ball inside the penalty box, leaving the defenders in his wake.
Oliver Kahn made a decisive move, rushing out and diving in an attempt to stop the Brazilian.
Adriano, a natural left-footer, reached the ball just a fraction of a second earlier and executed a perfect chip shot.
The ball sailed just over Kahn's outstretched fingers and dipped into the back of Bayern's net.
Adriano, tangled with Kahn, fell to the ground inside the penalty area.
But it was a goal.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"
"Adriano!"
"3-0!"
"The Brazilian striker scores a brace!"
"My God, this is simply unbelievable."
"Atlético's tactics tonight have completely stifled Bayern, scoring three goals in the first half."
"This goal came after a critical error from Thiam, whose hesitation allowed Atlético to pounce and launch a blistering counterattack."
"Bayern's defense has been full of holes tonight."
When Adriano bulldozed through Bayern's two center-backs, it was already clear to everyone: the ball was going in.
And indeed, it did.
Each goal from Atlético was like a slap to Franz Beckenbauer's face, leaving a stinging sensation.
Before the game, Beckenbauer had been full of confidence in Hitzfeld's Bayern. Their recent form had been excellent.
But who could have predicted this?
Tonight, against Atlético, Bayern were utterly overwhelmed.
Thiam, in his libero role, had contributed a few flashes of brilliance with his forward runs. But those moments were vastly overshadowed by his errors, which repeatedly led to goals for Atlético.
"The libero system might not be suitable anymore," Platini remarked, glancing at Beckenbauer.
"No, it's not the system. It's the players," Beckenbauer replied, his pride unshaken.
The German legend was steadfast in his belief that the libero system was sound, blaming its execution on the players.
Thiam, for instance—how could he lose possession so easily?
Was Beckenbauer's logic flawed? Not entirely. His argument held merit: with a player like himself, Sammer, or Matthäus in the libero role, the system could still work.
But where could one find such players today?
The Half Ends
By halftime, Atlético held a commanding 3-0 lead.
When the second half began, Bayern surprisingly made no substitutions. It wasn't until the 60th minute that Hitzfeld brought on Niko Kovač to replace Sforza.
With this change, Bayern switched to a 3-4-3 formation with dual defensive midfielders, finally stabilizing their defense.
At the 65th minute, Hitzfeld subbed in Jancker for Pizarro.
At the 72nd minute, Santa Cruz replaced Salihamidžić, whose performance had been nothing short of disastrous.
In the 77th minute, Bayern capitalized on a corner. Jancker, positioned just outside the six-yard box, headed in a goal to bring the score to 1-3.
But just six minutes later, Diego Forlán—who had come on for Adriano—delivered a stunning long-range strike from outside the penalty area, once again beating Kahn.
4-1!
At that moment, the game lost all competitive tension. Bayern's players were visibly deflated.
In the end, Atlético thrashed Bayern Munich 4-1 at the Stade Louis II, securing the UEFA Super Cup and completing their quadruple triumph!
Shockwaves Across Spain
As Atlético celebrated their resounding victory in Monaco, the entire footballing world took notice, especially in Spain.
Spain's national broadcaster, RTVE, wasted no time analyzing the match post-broadcast:
"At just 19 years old, Adriano has once again proven his immense talent with his goals and superb performance!"
"His brace in Monaco will make the footballing world take notice of his burgeoning form and brilliance."
"Following Pandiani's departure, Adriano has become Atlético's undisputed talisman, winning over the hearts of the Calderón faithful!"
RTVE also lauded Diego Forlán's contribution, emphasizing his seamless adaptation under Yang Hao's guidance.
"Before the season began, many doubted whether Diego Forlán could fill Pandiani's shoes."
"Now, those fears should be laid to rest. Adriano's improvement over last season, combined with Forlán's ability to step up, makes them potent weapons in Atlético's arsenal for the upcoming campaign."
Spain's El País headlined their post-match report with: "Adriano Shines, Bayern Crumbles."
The newspaper praised Atlético's UEFA Super Cup performance as a resounding statement to Europe:
"Atlético's success last season was no fluke. In this new campaign, Yang Hao and his young squad will undoubtedly aim to replicate, if not surpass, their previous achievements."
"We have every reason to believe that Atlético could be the dark horse of this year's Champions League."
El País also didn't hold back on criticizing Bayern's lackluster performance:
"Kahn looked far from his prime, while Linke and Kovač appeared sluggish and overmatched by the youthful exuberance of Adriano and Forlán."
"But the most surprising failure was Hitzfeld himself. Known for his tactical acumen, the legendary coach was outclassed in every aspect during the Super Cup, leaving him thoroughly defeated."
The article concluded by asserting that this match wasn't just a victory for Atlético—it was a validation of Yang Hao's growing reputation as a manager.
"He's proven that his success is no accident."
Even the notoriously pro-Real Madrid AS was uncharacteristically generous, praising Atlético for representing Spanish football proudly on the European stage.
Atlético had not only claimed a historic victory but also sent a clear message: they were here to stay, ready to challenge Europe's elite.
"Atlético's performance in the Super Cup was inspiring. They have once again demonstrated the formidable competitiveness of La Liga!"
"In the upcoming European season, La Liga is poised to maintain its peak standards from recent years."
However, being the mouthpiece of Real Madrid, AS couldn't help but shift focus to praising Los Blancos.
In La Liga's opening match, Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory away against Valencia.
Fabio Cannavaro, in his debut for Real Madrid, delivered an excellent performance. Partnering with veteran Fernando Hierro in defense, the duo showcased remarkable chemistry.
In particular, during a Valencia attack in the 7th minute, Cannavaro made a decisive sliding tackle to dispossess Angulo, earning him widespread acclaim.
With the defense stabilized, the star-studded attack naturally delivered the goals.
AS asserted that Real Madrid's dominant start foretold their potential to be the most competitive team in La Liga this season.
Meanwhile, Deportivo La Coruña delivered the most impressive performance of the round, routing Real Valladolid 4-0 at home. Irureta's strategy of rotating three forwards intensified internal competition, leading to outstanding results.
As for Celta Vigo, fresh off their Super Cup thrashing by Atlético, they returned to their usual strong league-starting form, beating Osasuna 3-0 away.
Barcelona managed a 2-1 win over newly promoted Sevilla, courtesy of a Patrick Kluivert brace.
Atlético's match against Espanyol was postponed to the 27th due to their participation in the UEFA Super Cup.
A Grueling Schedule for Atlético
This delay was far from ideal for Atlético.
Monaco, the venue for the Super Cup, doesn't have an airport. After their match on the 24th, the team had to stay overnight before traveling to Nice the next morning.
Even after finally returning to Madrid, Atlético had to immediately prepare for their trip to Barcelona to face Espanyol on the 27th.
Making matters worse, the international break started on the 26th. Despite prior coordination, many Atlético players had to leave for national team duty due to pre-arranged schedules. This forced absences would inevitably impact the team's performance.
As much as the timing frustrated Atlético, skipping the UEFA Super Cup was never an option.
Germany Reflects on Bayern's Humbling Loss
In contrast to Spain's praise for Atlético, the German press was consumed with dissecting Bayern's defeat.
Kicker magazine attributed the loss to three key factors:
Atlético's tactical superiority.
Bayern's frequent errors and poor player form.
A lack of cohesion in both attack and defense.
The publication noted that Yang Hao had clearly done his homework, analyzing Bayern's three-center-back system in detail before the match.
"The third goal perfectly exemplifies this," Kicker stated.
"We interviewed Bayern players, including Thiam, who admitted he had concerns before losing possession. Adriano's aggressive pressing on Linke and Kovač, rather than himself, clearly reflected Atlético's targeted tactics."
"Still, the team's desperation to score and the game's context pushed him to take the risk and advance, a move aligned with his assigned role."
Kicker concluded that this match exposed the vulnerabilities of the three-center-back and libero systems. Hitzfeld needed to rethink his approach.
If Kicker maintained a tone of measured critique, Bild was blunt and unforgiving:
"The libero era is over!"
The authoritative German tabloid harshly scored Bayern's players. Only Oliver Kahn managed a passing grade. Sforza, Pizarro, and the three center-backs received the lowest rating of 5.
On the flip side, Bild awarded Atlético's Adriano a perfect 1, calling him the match's standout player.
The publication lamented Bayern's midfield struggles in the absence of Effenberg, which left the team's engine room in disarray.
German media collectively expressed both bewilderment and regret over the loss, especially given the historical context.
No German team has ever won the UEFA Super Cup—a frustrating and embarrassing fact for German football.
Since the competition's inception in 1972, German clubs have participated multiple times during their golden eras but have consistently fallen short:
Bayern's defeats in 1975 and 1976.
Hamburg's loss in 1983 to Aberdeen.
Werder Bremen's 1992 defeat to Barcelona.
Borussia Dortmund's 1997 loss, also to Barcelona.
Now, Bayern added another chapter to this woeful history, losing to Atlético Madrid.
The German press was left pondering:
How could a dominant Bundesliga side crumble so thoroughly in the Super Cup?
Has German football fallen behind tactically?
Yang Hao Focuses Ahead
Despite the media buzz—both the Spanish praise and German critiques—Yang Hao remained focused.
After returning to Spain, Atlético barely rested before heading to Barcelona.
The team's situation was far from ideal. With numerous key players away on international duty, Atlético lacked the personnel needed to compete at their best.
The inevitable result: a 2-1 loss to Espanyol.
Between August 19 and 27, Atlético played four matches in just nine days. The punishing schedule and depleted squad made the loss unavoidable.
Spanish media largely sympathized with Atlético's plight, understanding the near-impossible challenge they faced.
Even so, AS columnist Oscar couldn't resist mocking Yang Hao in his column. Yang Hao, as always, ignored the provocation.
The defeat left Atlético 12th in La Liga after the opening rounds.
In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao joked bitterly:
"This is the lowest I've seen Atlético rank since my first season in charge!"
Journalists in attendance acknowledged the irony: before Yang Hao's arrival, Atlético had spent years hovering near relegation. His leadership had transformed the club into a contender.
But Yang Hao and his coaching staff couldn't relax.
The early season's grueling schedule had already drained the squad.
The international break posed further risks, as players faced travel and fatigue.
Upon returning, Atlético would face back-to-back fixtures: La Liga and their Champions League group stage opener.
Their first European clash was an away match in Scotland against Celtic—a team not to be underestimated.
The road ahead was daunting, but Atlético remained determined to prove they were built for the challenge.
Due to the compressed schedule caused by next year's World Cup, almost every week from now on will feature two matches.
Forget worrying about injuries—even without them, the relentless pace alone is suffocating.
Making things worse, with the World Cup looming, national teams are conducting intensive preparation. Every international break means clubs must release their players for duty.
Atlético, despite the pride in their excellent performance last season, now faces the downside: an influx of internationals.
Players like Vicente, Joaquín, and Baraja are part of Spain's national team. For Brazil, it's even more significant: Adriano, Lúcio, Aurélio, and Belletti are regulars.
While managing South American players isn't particularly troublesome, the sheer travel required for international matches is exhausting.
To mitigate the toll, Atlético has arranged private jets for the Brazilian and Argentine internationals. While players will travel independently to their respective camps, they will gather at a central location for the return trip, with Atlético's charter bringing them back to Madrid.
Preliminary calculations show this could save up to 12 hours of travel. For a club like Atlético, where every second counts, these 12 hours are invaluable for recovery and preparation.
Players will cherish these additional rest and adjustment hours.
Spanish internationals and others like Van der Sar also have carefully planned return routes to minimize travel stress.
Yet even with such meticulous organization, Yang Hao couldn't shake his unease.
Back at the Training Ground
"Hey, Kaká, you need to be faster!"
"Come on, Kaká! Push harder, harder, faster!"
When Yang Hao arrived at the Majadahonda training center's gym, the non-internationals were undergoing physical training under fitness coach Ortega's guidance.
The first thing he noticed was Kaká and Torres with resistance bands strapped around their waists, sprinting toward balls thrown by a coach. They had to chase the ball and skillfully volley it into a target frame. Speed and precision were the focus.
Other players, either waiting their turn or already done with the exercise, stood around cheering and jeering.
So engrossed were they that no one noticed Yang Hao quietly standing behind them.
Torres, with his naturally robust build, had made remarkable physical progress over the past year. He now exuded strength on the pitch.
Kaká, on the other hand, still appeared slender. His slightly hollow cheeks and lean frame lacked the radiance of the "sunshine boy" Yang Hao remembered from his past life.
He couldn't help but think: Kaká would look even better with a bit more muscle.
Not that Kaká was unattractive, of course.
Yang Hao began musing: perhaps it was time to hire a top-tier stylist to groom Atlético's players. After all, this group of young stars had immense commercial potential.
Football may be about talent, but looks undeniably play a role.
Why else was Beckham so adored? Why were Italy's "model squad" players like Inzaghi, Vieri, Buffon, and Totti constantly stealing the spotlight—and new girlfriends?
Atlético's current squad wasn't exactly oozing with star-quality looks.
Yang Hao's gaze inadvertently landed on Drogba. The Ivorian striker's presence was a glaring contrast.
What was I thinking when I signed him?
"African Andy Lau?"
Even if Liu Dehua (Andy Lau) were run over by a truck 80 times, he'd still be better-looking than you!
Lúcio...well, he wasn't here to defend himself, so no further comment.
Between these two, Drogba and Lúcio were undoubtedly Atlético's aesthetic Achilles' heel.
Despite this inner lament, Yang Hao quickly refocused on Kaká and Torres. Both were training intensely, with Torres edging ahead in performance.
Physically, Torres still held the upper hand.
"Boss?"
After finishing their drills, Torres noticed Yang Hao at the back of the group.
The others turned to see their coach and greeted him warmly.
However, none seemed particularly nervous. Yang Hao had a reputation for observing rather than interfering in training sessions.
"No worries, just here to look around. Keep going," Yang Hao replied casually.
The players resumed their drills without hesitation.
At Atlético, it was no secret that Yang Hao wasn't involved in hands-on training. Still, this didn't diminish the respect and trust he commanded.
"How are they doing?" Yang Hao asked Ortega as he approached.
"They're fine. Torres is doing great, and I think Kaká is ready for the pitch," Ortega replied.
Yang Hao nodded, knowing Ortega understood his concerns.
With such an intense schedule and many internationals away, the upcoming second La Liga match against newly promoted Sevilla provided a perfect opportunity to rotate players.
As Atlético would play at home, using young players to share the load could help manage fatigue.
This was especially critical, given the immediate turnaround to their Champions League opener—a tough away match against Celtic.
Players returning from international duty needed rest; otherwise, a poor showing in Scotland could become a genuine possibility.
The opening loss to Espanyol was a stark reminder: no matter how well-crafted his tactics, if players were drained and off their game, it was all for naught.
"What about Drogba?" Yang Hao inquired, turning his attention to the team's aesthetic liability.
If he lacked looks, he'd need to compensate with skill and performance. Otherwise, survival in Atlético's handsome lineup would be a struggle.
"Physically, he's solid, but he still needs work. I spoke to him about his past inconsistencies and injuries. I think he should focus on building a solid foundation; otherwise, he risks recurring injuries."
Recalling Drogba's journey from his past life, Yang Hao agreed wholeheartedly.
"And his technical skills?"
"I'd suggest involving Ángel Vales to address those areas."
Yang Hao nodded again. As much as he wanted Drogba ready now, the Ivorian wasn't yet in "beast mode." Throwing him into La Liga after struggling in Ligue 2 would be setting him up to fail.
Some things take time. Rushing leads to disaster.
"Let him get match time in Segunda. Build his form and physique there."
"This guy's got immense potential. He doesn't look exceptionally strong, but his muscles are compact and powerful. Once fully developed, he'll be fast, agile, and a major asset."
Ortega admired Yang Hao's keen eye for talent.
Adriano had already proven himself to be an exceptional find, and now Drogba was showing promise.
If both players reached their full potential, they would terrorize La Liga's defenders.
Adriano was already a nightmare for most backlines.
For Ortega, coaching this talented young squad was incredibly fulfilling. Watching them grow and succeed would only amplify that sense of accomplishment.
With his disheveled, middle-parted hair giving off a messy, almost "emo" vibe, Didier Drogba sat before Yang Hao.
At 23, the Ivorian also held French citizenship, which meant he didn't take up a foreign player slot. Yet in Yang Hao's presence, Drogba exuded none of the commanding aura that would one day define him as a global football icon. Instead, his demeanor was more uncertain, though his eyes betrayed a stubborn resilience.
This isn't someone who trusts easily, Yang Hao mused.
After inviting Drogba to sit, Yang Hao began by asking about his housing situation.
Yes, Drogba was already married—and a father of two.
His marriage, as Yang Hao remembered from Drogba's autobiography, was anything but smooth.
Drogba once described how, at 17, he met his wife Lalla at his uncle's shop and fell head over heels for her. He pursued her relentlessly, but back then, Drogba wasn't a professional footballer. Like many teens his age, he was rebellious and irresponsible, spending every cent he earned and often struggling to pay basic bills, like rent and utilities.
Unsurprisingly, Lalla initially chose someone else, even having a child with them.
Years later, after Drogba underwent a personal transformation, he reignited his pursuit of Lalla. In January 2000, she and her child moved in with him.
By the end of that year, their first child together, Isaac, was born.
Yang Hao vividly recalled Drogba describing in his autobiography how, just weeks after Isaac was born, the baby fell ill, and Drogba had no money in his account to pay for treatment.
That was his wake-up call. For the first time, Drogba realized he wasn't living up to his responsibilities as a father and husband. That moment marked the beginning of a dramatic change in his life.
Fast forward to the present, and the past six months had been a battle with his coach at Le Mans, Goudet, who refused to give him playing time.
This was why Atlético had managed to sign him for a mere €10,000.
Even now, Drogba didn't fully understand what value he could bring to Atlético.
That was precisely why Yang Hao had called him in for a chat.
Drogba explained that Atlético's staff had helped him secure an apartment near Majadahonda.
"The rent is affordable, the neighborhood is nice, and it's close to the training ground. I can bike there," Drogba said with a smile.
His family had settled in well, and there were no issues with his wife or children. The only concern was Lalla's son, Kevin, who needed to enroll in a local preschool. Atlético's staff had already taken care of that, too.
When it came to logistics and support, Drogba admitted that Atlético was leagues ahead of Le Mans.
Yang Hao then shifted the conversation to his adjustment to life in Madrid, particularly the language barrier.
French was Drogba's native tongue, and he'd never learned Spanish before. Now, both he and his family were starting from scratch. Atlético had arranged for a Spanish tutor, and Drogba felt their progress was steady.
Still, moving from familiar France to an entirely new environment in Spain wasn't easy.
"We're doing our best to adapt and, hopefully, grow to love Madrid," Drogba said.
His words sounded more like professional obligation than genuine enthusiasm, but that didn't bother Yang Hao. It was a perfectly normal reaction.
"Boss, I want to know—what can I do for you?" Drogba finally asked.
He had been training with the first team and played in some preseason friendlies but was now stuck in the reserves, playing in Segunda División (Spain's second tier). Even then, he wasn't a guaranteed starter.
This wasn't surprising. Atlético's reserve team had Fernando Torres as their main striker, along with another talented forward, David Villa.
Drogba had overheard staff mentioning how Villa was personally scouted and recruited by Yang Hao, who held him in high regard. And to be fair, Villa's talent backed it up—he was agile, technically gifted, and had a deadly shot.
Drogba couldn't help but question his role. Atlético was already a strong team. Why would they bother signing someone like him?
Sure, €10,000 was pocket change for a club like Atlético, but still—why?
His curiosity finally got the better of him.
"Why am I here, boss?"
"If I told you I need you to rest and recover, what would you say?" Yang Hao asked with a smile.
Drogba blinked in confusion.
"Rest?"
Yang Hao handed him a document—a detailed physical evaluation prepared by Atlético's medical and performance teams.
"To be honest, there are quite a few issues," Yang Hao said.
Drogba's Spanish wasn't advanced enough to understand the technical report, but to his surprise, it was written in French.
The report highlighted various concerns: lingering injuries, muscle imbalances caused by years of improper training, and dietary habits that needed improvement.
Flipping through the pages, Drogba noticed some glaring insights. Atlético had even uncovered his occasional late-night escapades in France.
"Boss, I need to clarify—I haven't gone out partying in a long time! Only during team holidays, and even then, it's rare!"
"And drinking?" Yang Hao teased.
Drogba's eyes widened in disbelief. "You even know about that?"
Yang Hao nodded with feigned mystery, struggling to contain his laughter. Of course, he knew—it was all in Drogba's autobiography!
Few players were as candid about their past as Drogba was in his memoir.
"Let me make a deal with you," Yang Hao said, finally dropping the act.
"I'm listening," Drogba replied respectfully.
Compared to the treatment he received at Le Mans, Atlético felt like paradise. Even playing in Segunda División felt like an upgrade from Ligue 2.
"I've spoken with Ortega, our fitness coach. He's going to design a comprehensive physical development program for you. You'll stick to it for the entire season while playing in Segunda. By the end of the season, we'll evaluate your performance."
Drogba nodded firmly.
Yang Hao continued, "I know you're frustrated, but this season is about building your foundation. You have immense potential, Drogba, but to unlock it, you need to strengthen your body and refine your game. If you commit to this process, I promise you'll become the player you're meant to be."
Drogba's eyes lit up with determination. "I won't let you down, boss."
"In the meantime, you'll continue training with the first team," Yang Hao said. "But your lifestyle must stay on track. No partying, no matter what—even if there's no match. Got it?"
"I promise, boss. I swear!" Drogba replied resolutely.
"Change your habits, eat healthily, train scientifically. I want to see how much progress you make this season."
Drogba took a deep breath. For him, Le Mans' coach Goudet had been a nightmare. Yang Hao had helped him escape that torment, and Drogba would do anything to avoid going back. For him and his family, Atlético and Madrid were nothing short of paradise.
"I swear, boss, I'll leave my past self behind!"
"If—and I mean if—your performance at the end of this season meets my expectations..."
"I'll get to stay, right?" Drogba interjected excitedly.
Yang Hao smiled faintly. "I'll give you a brand-new contract with double the salary."
Hearing this, Drogba felt his breath quicken, his heart pounding.
A new contract? Double his salary?
That would mean saying goodbye to his tight financial situation. It could mean a car, a bigger apartment...
My God, that's the life I've dreamed of!
"... And..."
There's more? Drogba's anxiety grew.
"I guarantee you'll be playing in La Liga and on the European stage next season."
Drogba froze. Had he heard that right?
La Liga? Europe? Next season?
Was Yang Hao serious?
Drogba felt an overwhelming surge of energy. He'd been poor for too long. He fully understood the weight of his responsibilities—to himself, to his family.
He was desperate to earn more, to become famous, to be better.
"I'm heading to Ortega right now!"
Without hesitation, Drogba jumped up, said a quick goodbye to Yang Hao, and rushed out.
Yang Hao chuckled once Drogba was gone.
Beyond Ortega's physical training, Drogba would also undergo technical development with Ángel Vales. And given that La Liga placed significant emphasis on technical prowess, Drogba had enormous potential to grow in this environment.
In his previous life, Yang Hao had admired Drogba's unique qualities as a center forward. Drogba combined physicality, speed, technique, and tactical intelligence, with a remarkable ability to cover ground.
Unlike tactical forwards like Benzema or Diego Milito, who excelled at holding the ball and linking play, Drogba offered something more disruptive. His sheer strength made him a nightmare for defenders. His ability to receive long balls—like that famous match against Arsenal—was legendary.
But what truly set Drogba apart was his relentless impact on defenders. His style of play drained them mentally and physically, leaving him dominant even in the latter stages of matches.
However, this style also made him prone to injuries—a recurring issue throughout his career.
Coincidentally, Atlético had another center forward skilled at wearing down defenders: Adriano.
Yang Hao recalled a preseason match against a lower-division side where he paired Drogba and Adriano. Within half an hour, the opposing defenders were overwhelmed, and their coach accused Yang Hao of "bullying."
Adriano was more explosive, thriving on bursts of acceleration and power. Torres, too, had a penchant for breaking through defenses but lacked Drogba's unique style.
This explained why Torres couldn't fully replace Drogba during their time at Chelsea.
Yang Hao was thrilled by the possibilities. With Drogba's early recruitment and access to top-tier resources, he wondered if Drogba's career would surpass the heights of his previous life.
Internal Training Match
During the national team break, Yang Hao said little. However, the players left behind at Majadahonda Training Ground knew he was assessing them, particularly during an internal scrimmage.
For the scrimmage, Yang Hao grouped Torres, Deco, and Xabi Alonso together, along with four others: Kaka, Maicon, Evra, and a handful of promising reserves.
It was clear to everyone that Yang Hao was preparing for the second round of La Liga against Sevilla.
With key international players away, Atlético faced a daunting schedule, with both domestic and European commitments on the horizon. Rotation was inevitable.
Realizing the stakes, all players—whether in the "starting" or "reserve" squad—pushed themselves to the limit during the match.
One standout was Marcos Senna, a midfielder often underestimated by fans. Contrary to his reputation as a "ball-winning machine," Senna possessed excellent technical skills, organization, and passing range.
Sevilla's Tough Defense
Sevilla's coach, Joaquín Caparrós, was just 45 but still making a name for himself. His tactical discipline and focus on defensive solidity were his trademarks.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Caparrós had solidified his reputation by leading Sevilla back to La Liga in 2000. Under his guidance, Sevilla became known for their defensive prowess.
This season, Sevilla had bolstered their backline by signing Javi Navarro from Valencia and pairing him with former Atlético center-back Pablo Alfaro.
At 32, Alfaro was an experienced veteran. Though unassuming at first glance, he had built a solid career across Zaragoza, Barcelona, Racing Santander, and Atlético.
Meanwhile, the 27-year-old Navarro had been a standout for Valencia and was once regarded as one of Spain's brightest defensive prospects.
These two formed a formidable duo, anchoring Caparrós' defense-first philosophy.
Yang Hao knew that Sevilla would present a significant challenge. However, he also trusted his young squad to rise to the occasion.
The question remained: Could Atlético's youngsters, with their mix of raw talent and growing experience, overcome one of La Liga's most disciplined defenses?
Yang Hao had a feeling they were ready to surprise everyone.
The center-back, standing at 1.82 meters tall, exemplifies the traditional Spanish defender: rugged, aggressive, and unyielding. Unfortunately, his career was riddled with injuries during his prime developmental years, with three consecutive seasons marred by severe setbacks.
Most notably, a devastating knee injury in 1997 left him sidelined for two full years. By the time he recovered, Valencia, under Héctor Cúper, had already risen to become Champions League finalists. The formidable Bats had no room left for Navarro, prompting his loan move to Elche. In the summer of 2001, with his contract expired, he joined Sevilla on a free transfer.
Navarro, alongside Pablo Alfaro, another quintessential Spanish center-back, would go on to form the defensive foundation of Sevilla's rise in the coming years. Both were tough, no-nonsense defenders with solid ball skills. Alfaro, a left-footed player, complemented Navarro, who was right-footed, creating a well-synchronized duo.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Sevilla finished eighth in La Liga this season, boasting one of the league's strongest defensive records. Caparrós' specialty lay in defensive counterattacking football. With a solid backline as the cornerstone, Sevilla relied on their towering striker Moisés and Uruguayan talent Nicolás Olivera up front. A young Reyes added pace and flair, rounding out a dangerous counterattacking trio.
Now, Reyes was part of Atlético's squad. Caparrós, meanwhile, had begun placing trust in Moisés, Olivera, Luis Gil, and Argentine forward Toedtli.
However, Sevilla's attacking prowess was only as good as their robust defensive base. Thus, the real challenge for Atlético in this second-round La Liga fixture lay in breaking through that wall.
Preparing for Sevilla
During the international break, Yang Hao tirelessly evaluated his young players, engaging in one-on-one discussions with them.
For instance, Fernando Torres.
Atlético's B team had faced Sevilla in the Segunda División last season. Against Navarro and Alfaro, Torres had struggled. Both defenders were not only physically dominant and aggressive but also highly skilled, leaving the young striker with no room to operate.
Now in La Liga, Yang Hao was eager to gauge Torres' confidence.
"Boss, for every Atlético kid, the Calderón is different," said the 17-year-old with a gaze full of eagerness and determination.
In that moment, Yang Hao saw no trace of nerves in Torres' eyes—only a sharp hunger to prove himself to the world.
"By the way, boss..."
"Yes?"
"Let Kaka play too," Torres suggested.
Yang Hao raised an eyebrow, then chuckled. "Why?"
"We're the perfect duo," Torres grinned.
"I'll think about it," Yang Hao replied with a smile.
Deco hadn't been called up to the Brazilian national team, so he was also available for selection. However, the game posed another challenge in the form of Sevilla's enforcer, Casquero.
While Alfaro and Navarro were the backbone of Sevilla's defense, Casquero anchored the midfield with his combative style. To put it bluntly, Sevilla's football bordered on rough, employing tactics that could be described as "damaging."
After Torres left, Yang Hao called Kaka over to discuss his concerns.
"Boss, I played against him twice last season in the Segunda," Kaka reminded Yang Hao.
"Although I didn't score or assist, I think I performed well."
By the end, the Brazilian's face lit up with a confident smile. When Kaka smiled, it was contagious.
Yang Hao suddenly wondered if he was being overly cautious.
It was natural, given the circumstances. With a La Liga title, a UEFA Cup, and now two Super Cups under his belt, Yang Hao was already a decorated manager.
However, such success inevitably brought added pressure and hesitation.
"I understand," Yang Hao said with a nod and a smile.
September 9, Calderón Stadium
In La Liga's second round, Atlético hosted Sevilla.
When Caparrós received Atlético's starting lineup, he wondered if Yang Hao had lost his mind.
With Atlético's rising success came an increasing number of international call-ups. Yang Hao had built a squad bolstered by South American talent—players like Belletti, Aurelio, and Adriano had all shone brightly.
However, the intense World Cup qualifiers in South America were taking their toll. Brazil faced Paraguay and Argentina in two grueling fixtures, while Argentina also played Ecuador. Nearly all marquee players were called up and played full matches.
As a result, Atlético had become one of La Liga's clubs most affected by the international break.
Typically, most clubs would weather the storm by fielding their star players despite fatigue. For instance:
Barcelona had settled for a home draw against Rayo Vallecano.
Real Madrid, relying on Zidane's late winner, eked out a 2-1 home victory over Málaga.
Valencia managed a 1-1 draw away at Valladolid.
Deportivo La Coruña claimed a narrow 1-0 win against Las Palmas.
Almost all the major teams with numerous internationals struggled.
Meanwhile, Vigo's Celta, relatively unaffected by call-ups, continued their strong start, thrashing Tenerife 3-0 at home.
But Yang Hao?
This unconventional manager completely overhauled Atlético's starting lineup:
Goalkeeper: Van der Sar.
Defense: Evra, Carvalho, Marchena, Maicon.
Midfield: Cambiasso, Marcos Senna, Xabi Alonso (as a trio), with Kaka ahead of them.
Forwards: Reyes and Torres.
All players who had played two full international matches—Simeone, Adriano, and the famed "Devil's Wings"—were benched.
Even Deco, who wasn't on national team duty, was rested for this match.
The message was clear: Yang Hao was saving his stars for the Champions League.
"MD, does he think we're a joke?" Caparrós fumed internally.
Sure, Sevilla was a newly promoted team and had lost 1-2 at home to Barcelona in the first round. But their performance wasn't bad. Was Yang Hao underestimating Sevilla?
Well, maybe there was some history. Last season in the Segunda División, Sevilla faced Atlético's B team twice, managing a draw and a loss. They hadn't come out on top.
But this season was different. Sevilla, now in La Liga, had strengthened their squad with new signings and had significantly improved.
"From the start, we need to show our momentum!"
In the locker room, Caparrós addressed his players with conviction.
"Tonight, at the Calderón, we'll teach these Atlético kids what football is all about!"
A Rough Start
The game began with gasps and groans from the crowd as Atlético players were repeatedly toppled to the ground.
Sevilla launched into the match aggressively, almost as if their intent was to crush Atlético's spirit from the get-go.
Young players lacked experience and weren't adept at managing their emotions and mindset during matches. Disrupting their rhythm could effectively derail them.
Caparrós' strategy was targeted and precise:
Mess up their tempo, shatter their plans. Let's see what they do then.
Indeed, Atlético appeared chaotic from the start.
Even the commentators shook their heads.
"Yang Hao's reliance on a group of 18- and 19-year-olds to compete in La Liga is clearly overambitious, especially against a ferocious Sevilla side."
Yang Hao, however, remained composed, allowing his players to figure things out on their own.
In the 16th minute, Sevilla executed a swift counterattack. Former Atlético player Zoran Njegus delivered a diagonal cross from the right, and Moisés, positioned between Marchena and Carvalho, rose to head the ball into the net from close range.
0-1! Atlético was behind.
Moisés celebrated fervently, while Caparrós gestured animatedly in his technical area.
Following the goal, Atlético completely lost their rhythm, appearing increasingly disorganized under Sevilla's pressure.
"Last season, Yang Hao's tactical genius often left people in awe, but tonight, trying to compete in La Liga with a group of kids seems like a bridge too far," one TV commentator remarked as the first half ended.
The score remained 0-1, with Atlético trailing.
Halftime Pep Talk
Football is a team sport. No single individual—or even a handful of players—can singlehandedly shift the tide of a match.
Even veterans like Van der Sar, Carvalho, and Cambiasso could only do so much to steady the ship. The younger players were visibly struggling.
They realized that playing in La Liga was an entirely different beast compared to the Segunda División.
This Sevilla was nothing like the one they faced last season in the lower league. The gap in strength was monumental.
As the scoreline lingered at 0-1, doubts began creeping in. Anxiety took hold.
Before the game, they had confidently boasted to Yang Hao about taking down Sevilla. Torres, Kaka, Evra, Reyes, Maicon, and Marcos Senna had all spoken with conviction.
But now? They had failed to create any significant threat and had been bested by Sevilla.
And this was their home turf—the Calderón, where Yang Hao's Atlético had never lost under his leadership.
Losing here to Sevilla? The shame of it. Would they even have another chance to play for the first team?
As these thoughts clouded their minds, Yang Hao, accompanied by his assistants like Juanma Lillo, walked into the locker room.
"You all did a great job in the first half!" Yang Hao began.
The players snapped their heads up, staring at their coach in disbelief. Had they misheard? Or had the coach simply misspoken? Was this sarcasm? Was the storm coming?
But as they watched, Yang Hao remained calm, even smiling. There was no hint of anger in his tone or demeanor.
The first half had been riddled with errors. Their rhythm was off, mistakes were plenty, and their plans were in shambles.
"Over the past year, our fans haven't had many games like this at the Calderón. I'm sure they find it quite refreshing," Yang Hao quipped, injecting a bit of humor.
The players, however, couldn't muster a smile.
Reading the room, Yang Hao approached them directly. His smile faded slightly, replaced by a tone that was firm yet understanding.
"So, tell me—does La Liga feel tough?"
One question cut deep. Even Torres couldn't help but nod slightly.
Yes, La Liga was tough.
These young players had tasted minutes in the league, either starting or coming off the bench. Yang Hao's willingness to promote youth was well known in Spain.
Reyes had even shone last season.
But being the sole youngster, or one of a select few, was vastly different from fielding an entire squad of young players.
They were only now beginning to grasp the true difficulty of competing at this level.
"Do you know why I think you all did well in the first half?"
Yang Hao smiled again, providing the answer himself.
"Because we only conceded one goal."
"If this had been Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Deportivo—given the way we played in the first half—conceding four or five goals would have been normal. And the game would've been over."
The players hung their heads even lower, ashamed.
He was right. Against stronger teams, their first-half performance would've led to a rout.
"Sevilla's attacking isn't very strong, but our defense held up well. Our midfield trio—Cambiasso, Alonso, and Senna—did a solid job, and the front players worked hard."
"That's why I think we did okay."
Yang Hao's tone remained free of criticism, instead sounding encouraging.
"Now, what was our biggest problem in the first half?"
He paused, waiting for their eyes to meet his, before delivering his verdict.
"You panicked. You forgot our pre-game plan. You forgot what I told you: control the ball."
"We're a passing and movement team. We rely on teamwork. If they like to tackle aggressively, so what? We don't need to fight them physically. When they press, we pass. When they drop off, we attack."
"We have technical superiority. We have passing superiority. We have speed and movement. But you forgot all of that. Do you know how I felt watching from the sidelines?"
"It was like Sevilla was waving a red flag, taunting you like a matador, and you were all angry Spanish bulls, falling for it. Think about it—wasn't that the case?"
The locker room fell into an eerie silence.
Everyone was reflecting on the question Yang Hao posed, and the answer was glaringly obvious.
Yang Hao allowed them plenty of time to process, to sort through their thoughts, and to calm their nerves.
He said nothing more—no further tactical instructions or adjustments.
Not until the referee's whistle signaled it was time to return to the field did Yang Hao finally speak again.
"Alright. In the second half, until the 80th minute, I won't be making any substitutions. I want to see a calmer, more composed performance from all of you."
Second Half
As the second half began, Sevilla stuck to their first-half tactics.
Caparrós was likely smirking internally at Yang Hao's stubbornness—leaving players like Deco on the bench and continuing to trust these inexperienced kids.
But for Yang Hao, using this match to let these young players experience the harsh realities of La Liga was invaluable for their future growth. From his perspective, it was worth it.
After all, he believed in his players.
These Atlético kids weren't just any players; they were future superstars with legendary potential.
Following the halftime talk, the Atlético players began to recognize their mistakes.
Early in the second half, Sevilla's pressing and physicality still caused them some chaos.
But gradually, as they calmed down, they started finding their rhythm.
By the 55th minute, with Sevilla's players tiring and their pressing and intensity waning, Atlético's players began to feel the reduced pressure.
Suddenly, they had more time and space to handle the ball.
No longer were they immediately swarmed by two or three opponents every time they touched the ball.
The Equalizer
Cambiasso received the ball near the center circle in Sevilla's half, tightly marked by a defender.
He had to pull the ball back and pass it to Marcos Senna.
Sevilla quickly closed in on Senna, eager to intercept and launch a counterattack.
Kaká dropped back into the center circle, raising his hand to signal for the ball.
With Casquero trailing close behind, Kaká received the pass. As soon as the ball touched his foot, Casquero lunged forward to tackle it.
But Kaká didn't linger on the ball—he immediately sent it back to Cambiasso and was promptly taken down by Casquero.
Cambiasso, now unmarked, controlled the ball and spotted Torres dropping back to receive it. Without hesitation, he passed the ball forward.
Torres, shadowed by Navarro, let the ball run past him, tapping it to a teammate as he turned and sprinted forward.
Kaká, already back on his feet, intercepted Torres's return pass and, with a quick touch, sent a perfectly timed through ball between Navarro and Alfaro.
"A quick sequence of passes from Atlético!"
"Kaká with the through ball!"
"Torres is charging forward!"
Torres outran the defenders to latch onto Kaká's pass. Without dribbling further, he immediately lofted the ball over the advancing goalkeeper from just inside the penalty area.
The ball arced beautifully and landed in the back of Sevilla's empty net.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!"
"TORRES!!!"
"In the 61st minute, Torres equalizes for Atlético!"
"What an incredible team play!"
"Sevilla's defense had no answer for the quick passing and movement from these young Atlético players. Torres finishes it off with a delightful chip from the edge of the box."
The Comeback
With the score now level, Atlético's young players grew more confident.
As Sevilla's energy waned further, their pressing and physicality became less effective. The tide had shifted.
Still reeling from the equalizer, Sevilla's players struggled to regain their composure.
And just five minutes later, Atlético struck again.
Marcos Senna intercepted the ball in Atlético's half and quickly passed to Xabi Alonso.
Alonso, with a glance upfield, delivered a sharp, precise diagonal long pass to Sevilla's right flank—Atlético's left.
Reyes burst forward, beating Zoran Njegus to the ball and creating a one-on-one situation.
With a series of feints, Reyes pretended to cut inside before sending a diagonal pass back to the edge of the penalty area.
Kaká arrived at full speed. With Casquero closing in, Kaká used his right foot to control the pass towards the center and then unleashed a curling shot from the left side of the arc.
The ball flew with blistering speed, curving into the top-right corner of the net. The goalkeeper had no chance.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!"
"It's Kaká!!!"
"2-1! Atlético has turned the game around!"
"In just a few minutes, Atlético has scored two goals to take the lead."
"If the first goal was a brilliant display of teamwork, this second one showcased the individual brilliance of the players."
"From Xabi Alonso's pinpoint long pass to Reyes's dribbling, and finally Kaká's clinical finish—each part of this move was exceptional."
Sevilla now realized that their lead—and their chances—were slipping away.
Meanwhile, Atlético's young players grew increasingly energized. Players like Evra and Maicon took turns surging forward from the flanks, relentlessly attacking Sevilla's defense.
Sealing the Win
In the 79th minute, Evra overlapped down the left side and received a pass from Kaká.
With his left foot, he sent a diagonal cross to the far post.
Torres, rising above Alfaro, headed the ball back across the goal.
Unmarked at the near post, Reyes volleyed the ball into the net.
3-1!
At that moment, the Calderón erupted in deafening cheers. The young Atlético squad celebrated with unbridled joy.
In the visitors' technical area, Caparrós stood frozen, staring at the field in disbelief as the Atlético players raced across the pitch in celebration.
Sevilla had indeed grown stronger after their promotion to La Liga.
But so had Atlético's young guns—seasoned by their experience in the Segunda División and now even more formidable.
(END CHAPTER .)
Chapter of more than 13,000 words
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