Chapter 35 - Chapter 34

Chapter 34:

Rafa Benítez, dressed in his signature suit, sat in the visitors' dugout at the Calderón Stadium.

He leaned forward and glanced at the scoreboard.

Nearly 60 minutes had passed.

The score remained 0–1.

The visiting Valencia side, thanks to Mista's header, was still holding on to their lead.

"These Atlético players are just too young," assistant coach Paco Ayestarán remarked with a relaxed smile.

From the opening whistle, Valencia's defensive setup had been solid and steady.

Atlético had been on a hot streak this season, with their young squad receiving widespread praise from fans and media alike. Yet tonight, they were entirely muted in the face of Valencia's defensive strategy.

The prodigious Kaká had been lost in a jungle of muscle, flanked by the physicality of Albelda and Gonzalo.

"El Niño" Fernando Torres was rendered ineffective under the watchful eyes of Pellegrino and Ayala.

"El Guaje" David Villa had been locked down on the left flank by the experienced Carboni.

On the left wing, Robben found no answers against Curro Torres.

Even the normally ice-cold sharpshooter Xabi Alonso was shackled by Aimar's relentless shadowing.

Meanwhile, left-back Antonio López was completely frozen out by Angulo's aggressive marking.

For nearly an hour, Atlético's performance could be described as lackluster at best.

Valencia, on the other hand, impressed with both their targeted defensive game and quick attacking movements.

Take, for instance, the opening goal:

13 seconds.

From the goalkeeper to Aimar to Vicente, and finally to Mista, every touch flowed seamlessly.

"Yang Hao has never lost at home since taking over Atlético," Ayestarán said with a confident grin. "Tonight might just be his first."

Based on how the game was unfolding, Atlético seemed to have no effective answers.

Benítez's eyes gleamed with ambition.

In last season's La Liga, the Madrid clubs had stolen the spotlight, leaving Valencia, who had finished third, in their shadow. Benítez, who had succeeded Héctor Cúper, had been quietly biding his time, nursing a grudge.

Last season, Valencia's squad wasn't strong enough to challenge the Madrid duo. This season, however, Benítez felt his system had reached near perfection.

With Albelda and Gonzalo forming a solid double pivot, Benítez's setup lacked only Baraja, whom he couldn't acquire.

Now, with an opportunity to take down Atlético, Benítez wasn't about to let it slip away.

Ironically, he owed some thanks to Yang Hao.

By letting Vicente leave, Yang had inadvertently allowed Valencia to secure a better replacement for Kily González. The goal earlier in the match had been proof of Vicente's impact.

Had it been Kily González instead of Vicente, that play likely wouldn't have resulted in a goal.

Mista, a product of Real Madrid's academy, was not a typical Spanish striker. Unlike Morientes, he lacked Morientes' physical strength. While Mista's frame (1.84 meters) and technical skills were decent, he didn't particularly excel in any area.

During the 1997/98 season, he had caught some attention by scoring 18 goals in 27 matches for Real Madrid B in Spain's fourth-tier league. But even this achievement wasn't enough to make him stand out.

Benítez, who had long coached in Real Madrid's youth setup, understood Mista's strengths better than anyone.

Mista wasn't physically dominant, a sharpshooter, or especially quick.

But he was brilliant at off-the-ball movement.

This trait made him the perfect central striker for Benítez's system, allowing him to exploit defensive gaps with precision timing.

The goal earlier was the perfect example.

Difficult?

Not at all. In fact, it looked simple.

But the key was arriving at the right spot at the right time.

Aimar, another exceptionally intelligent player, played a crucial role. With his exceptional technical ability and quick decision-making, Aimar thrived in the space between defensive and midfield lines.

Whenever Aimar had the ball, Mista would make his runs, trusting Aimar to deliver the perfect pass.

This was the essence of Benítez's Valencia.

By the 60th minute, Benítez was still satisfied. Everything was going according to plan.

However, his assistant Ayestarán, perhaps too relaxed, said with a chuckle:

"They might sub Deco in to strengthen their midfield control."

Benítez shook his head. "We're not afraid of their possession."

But his thoughts drifted elsewhere—to Didier Drogba.

There had been talk about Drogba's breakout season in the Segunda División last year. Reports indicated that Yang Hao had personally scouted him from France.

"Segunda División isn't La Liga," Ayestarán replied confidently. "Besides, we don't fear a physical target man."

Valencia's lineup was well-equipped for physical battles. With tall, robust players like Pellegrino (1.93m), Albelda, and Gonzalo, they could handle an aerial duel or a bruising contest.

Even Ayala could hold his own against imposing strikers.

Yet Benítez couldn't shake the nagging feeling that Yang Hao had something up his sleeve.

Yang seemed far too calm despite trailing.

Was he bluffing? Or was he holding an ace?

At that moment, movement on Atlético's bench caught Benítez's attention.

Juanma Lillo gestured for a substitution, and Drogba stood up, shrugging off his jacket.

Without even warming up, Drogba strode to the sideline, ready to enter the fray.

The substitution was happening!

The Atlético fans in the stands had been waiting with anticipation.

There was an inexplicable sense of confidence among them, a belief that Yang Hao would figure out a way to turn the game around. At the very least, they believed he could secure a draw.

So, when they saw Drogba step onto the pitch, the crowd erupted into cheers.

Atlético fans in Madrid had heard about him—Yang Hao's handpicked player who had shone in the Segunda División last season, particularly in physical battles.

Early on, rumors swirled that Yang Hao had given him the nickname "Elephant." Later, another nickname emerged: The Beast.

Regardless of what he was called, one thing was certain—Drogba had Yang Hao's complete trust.

The fans cheered louder, more passionately than ever, causing Drogba, about to debut at his home stadium, to be taken aback.

Hearing the crowd chant his name brought a broad grin to his face.

When did I get this many fans? he thought.

"Boss," Drogba said confidently as he approached Yang Hao, emboldened by the crowd's cheers.

Yang Hao glanced at his puffed-up chest and proud posture, and he couldn't help but chuckle. The fans' chants had clearly gone to Drogba's head.

"They're not cheering for you," Yang Hao quipped.

"Huh?" Drogba froze.

Not for me?

But they're shouting my name!

"At least," Yang Hao added seriously, "not for the current you."

Drogba's heart sank.

He understood.

The fans weren't cheering for Didier Drogba as a player but for the trust Yang Hao had shown in making this substitution. The cheers represented their belief in the manager's ability to turn the game around, not in him personally.

Yang Hao's words served as both a wake-up call and encouragement.

If the cheers aren't for me now, I'll make them my own with my performance.

"We're struggling to hold up the ball in the final third," Yang Hao explained.

Torres, Villa, and Kaká were all dynamic attackers, but they were better at exploiting spaces than holding possession.

Based on Yang Hao's observations, Benítez's Valencia often defended in the middle third, roughly between the halfway line and the 30-meter mark. But tonight, Valencia had dropped even deeper to counter Atlético's attacking trio.

"What do you want me to do?" Drogba asked, his tone serious.

"Their defenders are getting tired. Your job is to act as our battering ram. Break them down and create opportunities for your teammates on the flanks and behind you!"

Drogba nodded, fully understanding.

Before the game, Yang Hao had spoken with him multiple times about his role and the tactical demands placed on him. Drogba knew that succeeding in La Liga, an entirely different environment from the Segunda División, meant integrating into the team's tactical setup.

Establishing himself within the squad was his first priority. Once he proved his worth, he could think about more.

"Remember this, Didier," Yang Hao said, gripping Drogba's arm and speaking firmly.

"La Liga games are intense, and defenders won't hold back. Their challenges will be dirty. Watch your temper. Understand?"

"I understand," Drogba nodded earnestly.

"The team is trailing by one goal. We need at least two to win, and you're the key to making that happen. No matter what, bring them down—I believe in you!" Yang Hao's voice was steady and filled with conviction.

Drogba felt the weight of Yang Hao's trust.

Being subbed on while trailing carried immense pressure, but it also showed the coach's unwavering faith in him.

"Boss, don't worry. I'll give it my all!"

Drogba recalled his lowest moments, the times when Yang Hao extended a helping hand, bringing him to Madrid, settling his family, and helping him improve as a player.

More importantly, Yang Hao had shown him a new path forward.

A year ago, Drogba wouldn't have dared to dream about playing in La Liga.

But now, he stood on the sidelines, about to step onto the pitch.

Drogba glanced back at the packed stands. Somewhere up there, his wife Lalla was watching with their two children. His uncle, parents, and other family members were all present to see him play.

Taking a deep breath, Drogba thought back to his earlier struggles—standing in a bank unable to withdraw money despite holding a card in his hand. It had been a moment of despair, but he had sworn to himself then and there to fight for a better life for his wife, children, and family.

Tonight, he was ready to fight. Not just for Yang Hao and Atlético, but for his loved ones.

"In the 63rd minute, Atlético make their first substitution of the match."

"We see Drogba coming on for Torres."

"This is a like-for-like substitution."

"Both players are products of Atlético's youth academy. Drogba previously played in lower-tier French leagues and didn't make much of an impression until Yang Hao brought him to Atlético. He shone in the Segunda División last season, and this is his La Liga debut."

"Torres hasn't had much luck tonight, but that's to be expected. Facing experienced defenders like Ayala and Pellegrino is no easy task for the young striker."

"Now we'll see if the physically imposing Drogba can break Valencia's defensive deadlock."

Less than a minute after coming on, Atlético's midfield sent a long ball forward, targeting Drogba.

The Ivorian quickly read the trajectory and positioned himself well to receive it.

Just as he prepared to jump for the ball, a sharp pain shot through the left side of his head. His left shoulder was also pinned down as someone crashed into him, sending him tumbling forward.

Drogba clutched his left ear, writhing in pain, his head spinning.

The referee blew his whistle, signaling a foul and awarding Atlético a free kick in the attacking half. However, no card was shown.

"Sorry about that," Ayala said nonchalantly, extending a hand to Drogba. "Accidentally caught you with my elbow while going up for the header."

Drogba immediately understood.

It was a show of dominance, a veteran's way of sending a warning to the newcomer.

But why hadn't the referee shown a card?

"Damn it," Drogba muttered under his breath.

"We get it, but you better watch it next time," Kaká said sternly, stepping between Ayala and Drogba.

Ayala merely smirked and backed off.

"You alright?" Kaká asked, pulling Drogba to his feet. "He's just trying to rile you up."

Clenching his jaw, Drogba nodded firmly.

"The referee's being lenient tonight," Kaká added. "That was within his tolerance."

Drogba understood. If he wanted to make an impact, he'd have to fight through the rough play.

On the pitch, the referee is akin to God, holding immense discretionary power.

"I understand, it's fine," Drogba muttered to himself, brushing off the earlier challenge.

The game resumed.

Atlético's free kick failed to pose any real threat. The Colchoneros, however, maintained steady control over midfield possession, patiently passing forward in search of opportunities.

Three minutes after coming on, Maicon advanced down the right flank after receiving a pass from midfield. As he crossed the halfway line, he spotted Drogba signaling for the ball and immediately delivered a diagonal pass.

This time, Drogba was ready. He firmly positioned himself, determined to claim the first touch. He noticed his teammates around him preparing to contest the second ball.

But just as the ball approached, Ayala slipped in front, leaning his entire weight against Drogba while subtly hooking his hands around him. At the crucial moment, Ayala threw himself off balance, taking Drogba down with him.

Both players tumbled to the ground.

Drogba quickly got to his feet, glaring furiously at Ayala.

He knew exactly what this was—typical Argentinian trickery.

Ayala also rose to his feet, meeting Drogba's glare with a sly smirk. "What are you staring at? Bad luck, huh?"

Drogba clenched his fists, his anger bubbling.

In truth, this wasn't just happening to him; other players were facing similar situations.

For example, Kaká. During a midfield run, he had skipped past Aimar and was advancing toward Valencia's double pivot. But as he pushed the ball forward and prepared to speed between the two, he was sandwiched by Valencia's midfielders. The ball was taken away cleanly, without a foul.

From the sidelines, Yang Hao couldn't take it anymore.

"Didier!"

Drogba turned his head toward the coach.

"Expand your range of movement! There's no need to fight him head-on. Bridgehead! Be the bridgehead!"

Drogba understood, reset his focus, and started moving again.

Atlético made tactical adjustments, attacking more down the flanks to stretch Valencia's defense.

In the 68th minute, an Atlético pass to the right wing was intercepted by Carboni before reaching Villa.

Carboni chased the ball near the baseline. As he slowed to control it, a teammate's warning rang out behind him.

"Watch your back!"

Carboni instinctively shielded the ball, glancing over his shoulder. Suddenly, a massive force bore down on his back like a tidal wave.

Who is this?

Before he could react, he was shoved off balance, stumbling forward a step and exposing the ball.

Drogba, towering behind him, seized the moment. He reached out and deftly hooked the ball away.

With possession secured, Drogba charged along the baseline toward the penalty area.

Villa and Kaká immediately began their runs, ready to support him.

Just as Drogba prepared to deliver a cross, Pellegrino lunged out of the penalty area with a sliding tackle, taking down both Drogba and the ball just outside the right edge of the box.

Drogba's body sprawled partially inside the box, but his legs remained outside.

The whistle blew. Foul, but no penalty.

Pellegrino was shown a yellow card.

Drogba, lying on the ground, began laughing.

They're scared.

He knew he had just sent waves of fear rippling through Valencia's defense.

These guys won't dare let me into the penalty area.

Excited, Drogba leapt to his feet, brimming with newfound energy.

"Atlético has earned a free kick in a very promising position, right near the edge of the penalty area on the baseline."

"Pellegrino receives a yellow card for his challenge."

"Drogba, who just came on, was instrumental in this play, showing great tenacity to win the ball and earn this crucial opportunity for his team."

"Yang Hao is visibly animated on the sidelines, gesturing and shouting instructions. Benítez, too, looks uneasy, pacing nervously."

"Let's see how Atlético handles this set piece."

"Boss says your headers are top-notch," said Simeone, wearing the captain's armband, as he approached Drogba.

Drogba glanced at Simeone, slightly puzzled by the comment, but nodded nonetheless. He was confident in his aerial ability.

Back in his Ligue 1 days, coaches often praised him for his heading, which he had worked tirelessly to refine.

"Remember the set-piece routines we practiced?" Simeone asked.

"I remember."

"Good. Start at Point B. When the whistle blows, make your run to Point A. This one's yours to take."

"Me?" Drogba asked, surprised.

"You're the tallest guy on the pitch tonight. Who else do you think?"

Simeone wasn't one to waste words, but as captain, he took responsibility for ensuring the set-piece play was understood.

Drogba glanced around and realized it was true.

"They'll mark me closely."

"We'll clear the path for you, but you'll have to deal with whoever marks you."

Drogba looked toward the sideline, catching Yang Hao's gaze. The coach gave him a slight nod.

That feeling of trust surged through Drogba again.

"Alright. I'll give it my all!"

"No need to overdo it," Simeone smirked. "Just put the ball in the net. That's simpler than 'giving it your all.'"

With that, Simeone jogged off.

Drogba, standing at Point B near the left post outside the six-yard box, began surveying the area.

During training, Atlético had rehearsed numerous set-piece plays—possibly close to 80 or 90 variations. Yang Hao, ever the perfectionist, insisted on their complexity.

This wasn't a corner kick, but the proximity to the baseline made it similar.

The only difference was the shorter distance.

Drogba calculated his approach—he'd need to slightly accelerate his run to reach Point A in time.

At the free kick spot, Xabi Alonso and Maicon stood ready, both taking their steps back.

Though the spectators were unaware, those familiar with Atlético's tactics knew this ball would be delivered to Point A—near the right post at the edge of the six-yard box—perfect for an aerial finish.

Executing the play, however, was far more challenging.

Positioned at Point B, Drogba had Valencia's tallest defender, Pellegrino, marking him closely. At 6'4" (1.93m), the Argentine veteran matched Drogba in height.

But Drogba had other advantages: youth, agility, and the element of surprise.

Set-pieces are about intent and execution. The attackers held the advantage of knowing the plan, while defenders could only react.

This was Atlético's moment to strike.

Drogba exhaled deeply, shifting his focus to the right side of the penalty area.

The moment the referee blew his whistle, everyone on the pitch sprang into action.

Xabi Alonso began a quick run-up, his stance suggesting a direct cross into the box.

But at the last moment, he pulled the ball back with a clever touch and darted toward the lone player in Valencia's defensive wall.

Right behind him, Maicon rushed forward, meeting Xabi Alonso's pass. With a deft right-footed flick, Maicon lofted the ball into the box.

The ball curved gracefully over the wall, heading toward the near post of the six-yard box.

By then, Drogba had already surged forward, shrugging off Pellegrino and breaking free of another defender's outstretched hand.

As Drogba approached the target zone, he saw Ayala standing poised to jump for the clearance.

Drogba didn't hesitate. Charging forward with unstoppable momentum, he leapt into the air, directly challenging Ayala.

With Drogba's sheer mass and power, Ayala had no chance—he was bumped aside mid-air.

The ball zipped toward Drogba.

The speed left him no time to think. Acting purely on instinct, he craned his neck and met the ball with a forceful header.

The ball rocketed toward the goal.

Goalkeeper Cañizares dived desperately, but it was too late. The speed and proximity of the header rendered any save impossible.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!"

"74th minute, Drogba!!!"

"Atlético has equalized!!"

"Didier Drogba finds the net!!"

"My goodness! He looked like a god of war, overpowering Ayala to head the ball home!"

"This is his first goal in La Liga!"

Drogba landed awkwardly, dazed and disoriented.

Nearby, Ayala, still sprawled on the ground, looked equally stunned.

It wasn't until Villa jumped onto Drogba, screaming in celebration, that Drogba realized what had happened.

The ball went in?

It's a goal?

In disbelief, Drogba looked around at his ecstatic teammates and the roaring crowd. Suddenly, he remembered—he needed to celebrate!

Breaking free from Villa's embrace, he turned and ran, arms outstretched.

His first instinct was to find his wife and children in the stands. As he waved to the crowd, he shouted in jubilation, unaware of their exact location.

On the sideline, Yang Hao observed Drogba's celebration with mixed emotions.

When will you transform into the terrifying slide-kneeling beast with the iconic three stripes? he thought wistfully.

After his debut goal, Drogba's confidence soared.

It wasn't long before Benítez realized that Yang Hao's decision to bring Drogba on wasn't just about scoring.

The Ivorian's presence on the field disrupted Valencia's defensive setup.

The equalizing goal was merely a bonus; Drogba's real value lay in his ability to capitalize on his physicality, movement, and pressure to destabilize the opposing backline.

For example, in the 77th minute, Drogba muscled past Curro Torres on the left flank, winning a contested ball from a long pass. Holding his ground, he laid it off to Robben.

The Dutchman charged diagonally toward the left edge of the box and delivered a cross to the far post.

Villa sprinted in, meeting the ball with a diving header that missed the goal by mere inches.

The entire stadium groaned in unison before erupting into cheers, encouraging the team.

Anyone watching could see that Atlético was growing increasingly dominant, especially in attack.

Benítez furrowed his brow. He understood that Drogba was the linchpin revitalizing Atlético's offense. Whether contesting aerial duels, covering ground, or pressing Valencia's defenders, Drogba's presence created relentless pressure.

But how could they contain this African "beast"?

Benítez signaled to Albelda, instructing him to lend additional support to the backline and keep an eye on Drogba.

Yet Drogba's movement was too versatile—he wasn't confined to the penalty area. He dropped back, pulled wide, and even helped set up plays.

In the 79th minute, Drogba drifted to the right flank. Though he didn't receive the ball, his positioning drew attention away from the center.

This opened a window for Maicon, who sent a lofted pass toward the edge of the box.

Villa surged forward but was denied by Pellegrino's header.

The clearance, however, fell to Drogba near the sideline. Without hesitation, he controlled the ball and swung it back into the penalty area.

Ayala rose to head it clear once more, sending the ball toward the edge of the box.

Waiting there was Kaká.

With a graceful chest control, the Brazilian brought the ball down and unleashed a thunderous strike.

The low, powerful shot streaked through the air like an arrow, smashing into the bottom-right corner of Valencia's goal.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!"

"Kaká! Kaká!!"

"2-1!!"

"Atlético has completed the comeback!!"

"A stunning strike from the Brazilian prodigy, Kaká!"

"Unbelievable scenes! Just five minutes after the equalizer, Atlético scores again!"

"Kaká, with a rocket of a shot, pierces Valencia's defenses and turns the game on its head!"

While Kaká celebrated his goal with his signature prayer pose, Yang Hao couldn't contain his excitement on the sideline. Jumping up and down, he punched the air in triumph.

This is what having star players means!

Stars that belong to Atlético!

"Woooo, Kaká!" Yang Hao shouted at the top of his lungs.

Kaká ran over, embracing his coach as the entire stadium roared in celebration. The rest of the team joined in, with even substitutes like Torres and Deco storming out to join the revelry.

With the lead secured, Atlético took full control of the game.

Yang Hao substituted Deco in, reinforcing the midfield to maintain possession.

This marked a clear tactical shift—Atlético intended to steady the game and force Valencia to push forward.

Benítez wasn't fooled. He understood Atlético's strategy but had no choice but to respond.

He brought on John Carew for Gonzalo, switching to a 4-4-2 formation with a diamond midfield.

This tactical adjustment, reminiscent of the Cooper era, sought to exploit the dual striker advantage.

The towering presence of the "Nordic Giant" Carew added an intimidating element to Valencia's offense.

But this wasn't the Atlético of old.

Atlético's momentum was now fully in their favor. With possession firmly in hand, they avoided engaging Valencia head-on, instead relying on their midfield's passing game to draw their opponents out and exploit spaces behind the defense.

In the 86th minute, Deco delivered a precise diagonal pass to the left wing.

Robben caught the ball and burst down the flank with blistering speed. Facing Curro Torres, he executed a classic split maneuver—ball in one direction, player in the other—leaving his marker helpless. The Dutch winger raced into the box and whipped a low cross into the goalmouth.

Drogba, perfectly positioned, attempted a side-footed finish. But the shot, taken under pressure, went high over the bar.

On the sideline, Yang Hao had been ready to celebrate.

But seeing the ball soar into the stands, he slapped his forehead in disbelief.

"Damn it!" he groaned.

At that moment, Yang Hao was utterly convinced—this Drogba wasn't an imposter.

He was the real deal.

Even that wildly inaccurate shot was a hallmark of the early Drogba he knew from memory.

Yang Hao turned away, shaking his head as he walked back to the dugout.

"This shot wasn't as easy as it looked," Juanma Lillo offered, trying to defend Drogba.

"I know," Yang Hao muttered, though frustration lingered in his tone.

To the average fan, it might have seemed like a straightforward chance. In reality, Robben's cross was delivered with exceptional speed. Without precise technique, the ball's momentum could easily cause such a misfire.

Though Drogba's skills weren't crude, they weren't exactly refined either. Likely, he hadn't even expected the chance to come so suddenly.

"That's it—more practice. Hammer him in training until he gets it right!"

After all, a 3–1 win sounds far better than 2–1. A two-goal margin conveys dominance, while a single goal feels like scraping by.

To roaring applause from the crowd, the match ended with Atlético's hard-fought 2–1 victory over Valencia.

This was a game of resilience.

Atlético's most dangerous moments came after Drogba's substitution. They exploited gaps in Valencia's defense, but for most of the match, clear-cut chances had been elusive.

As Yang Hao and Benítez shook hands post-match, the latter couldn't hide his dissatisfaction.

Though they exchanged pleasantries, it was clear that Benítez wasn't happy with the result.

But Yang Hao didn't care.

Unlucky? Tough. I won.

As he walked back to greet his players, he noticed them heading off the field.

He went down the line, shaking hands and embracing each of them, congratulating them on their victory.

When he reached Drogba, the Ivorian seemed sheepish.

"About that shot… I…"

"Forget it. It's in the past," Yang Hao said, waving it off generously.

Relieved, Drogba grinned, thinking he'd been let off the hook.

"However," Yang Hao added, suddenly serious, "we need to talk about your goal celebration."

"Hmm? What about it?" Drogba asked, confused.

"What the hell was that flailing on the sidelines? What were you doing?"

"Well, you call me 'The Beast,' right? I thought something wild and intimidating would suit the image."

"Bullshit!" Yang Hao shot back.

"Every great goalscorer—no, every player—has a signature celebration. It's your personal trademark. It makes you memorable!"

Drogba blinked, trying to process the idea.

"Look at Kaká," Yang Hao said, mimicking Kaká's prayer pose. "Now, doesn't that look classy? Makes the girls go crazy, doesn't it?"

From the side, Kaká protested weakly, "Boss, I don't think it's the celebration—"

"Shut up!" Yang Hao cut him off.

Recognizing the futility of arguing, Kaká wisely retreated to avoid becoming the next target of Yang Hao's tirade.

"Take Montella, for example—the plane celebration. Or Batistuta, firing the machine gun. And Raul, kissing the ring. Am I right?"

Drogba hesitated before nodding.

"See? You need a celebration that's iconic, something people will remember. Sponsors will notice you, and your market value will rise."

"Really?"

"Of course! Do you think I'm making this up?"

Seeing Drogba's intrigue, Yang Hao threw an arm around him and began walking him toward the tunnel, lowering his voice conspiratorially.

"Here's the plan: go for a knee slide."

"But boss, doesn't sliding on your knees ruin them?"

"Nonsense. Have you ever heard of anyone actually injuring themselves doing a knee slide?"

"What if I mess up? What if the grass is dry and I stop mid-slide? I'll look like I'm crawling!" Drogba demonstrated an awkward motion, reminiscent of a failed slide celebration.

Yang Hao almost burst out laughing, recalling the infamous botched celebration by a certain Premier League star. The thought of Drogba face-planting mid-slide was both horrifying and hilarious.

"Relax. Just a light slide—control it. The most important thing is to leave three stripes behind."

"Three stripes?"

"Yes! Imagine the commercial appeal. Think about it: three perfect stripes on the grass. What brand comes to mind?"

"…Adidas?"

"Exactly!" Yang Hao exclaimed, clapping him on the back.

"Wouldn't that catch their attention? Commercial opportunities everywhere!"

Drogba wasn't entirely convinced. Would sliding on grass really lead to an Adidas endorsement? It sounded… far-fetched.

"Trust me. Build your brand. And don't forget—people in Africa say you're one of the best-looking players. You're practically the African Andy Lau!"

"Andy Lau? Is he handsome?"

"Very. Almost as handsome as me."

Drogba chuckled and nodded, recalling how popular Yang Hao was with female fans, especially during their trips to Japan and Korea.

"Fine, I'll give it a try next time," Drogba said, finally persuaded.

Yang Hao clapped him on the back, throwing in a few more words of encouragement before letting him go.

Does this count as pushing him too fast? Yang Hao mused. Or just giving him the nudge he needs?

After Atlético's 2–1 away victory against Valencia, Yang Hao received a series of good news.

Irureta's Deportivo lost.

They were defeated 3–1 away by Villarreal.

Van Gaal's Barcelona also suffered a loss, going down 2–1 to Valladolid.

And then, the cherry on top: Real Madrid lost as well, a shocking 0–2 defeat to Racing Santander.

When Yang Hao first heard the news about Real Madrid, he could hardly believe it.

It was October, meaning South American teams weren't holding national team camps, so their international players weren't called up. In theory, Real Madrid should have had a full-strength squad.

Yet, the fact remained—they had lost.

To make matters even more amusing, Munitis, a player on loan from Real Madrid, shone for Racing Santander and even scored the second goal.

The irony was almost too much to bear.

Beating Real Madrid with their own player? Absolutely priceless.

Yang Hao mused that Real Madrid likely hadn't yet implemented the loan clause that prevents players from competing against their parent clubs. The situation was awkward, to say the least.

Last season, there was even talk that if Deportivo had defeated Atlético in the Copa del Rey semifinals, Real Madrid would have sold Munitis to Deportivo. But since Atlético advanced, Munitis ended up being loaned to Racing Santander instead.

The outcome? Munitis exacted his revenge against his parent club in spectacular fashion.

Sometimes, it's clear that clubs like Real Madrid suffer from having too much talent. They have the luxury of being wasteful, often failing to fully appreciate the players they have.

Munitis, a bona fide national team-caliber winger, would be a key player at any other La Liga club. But at Real Madrid? He was just a fringe player.

Atlético, by contrast, could never afford such extravagance.

As a publicly owned club, Atlético adhered to a philosophy of frugality and rational management—an approach critical to their long-term survival.

In Europe, clubs like Bayern Munich and the Ferguson-era Manchester United served as better models for Atlético to emulate.

Of course, that didn't include the post-Ferguson Manchester United. That was a case study in what happens when you combine too much money with too little sense.

Yang Hao even recalled an interview with Klopp from his previous life.

Apparently, before taking the Liverpool job, Klopp had been approached by Manchester United.

During his meeting with United executives in London, the entire conversation revolved around commercial success. They boasted about how much money the club made and how lucrative their brand was.

Unimpressed, Klopp left the meeting, turned west, and joined Liverpool instead.

The moral? Whether it's the Galácticos-era Real Madrid or the post-Ferguson Manchester United, such tales serve as cautionary examples.

Sixth Round Complete: Atlético on Top

With La Liga's sixth round completed, Atlético de Madrid stood atop the league with 18 points, shocking fans and media alike.

Nobody had anticipated that the Colchoneros would rise to first place just six games into the season.

The Spanish daily El País dedicated its front page to this achievement, featuring a photo of Yang Hao and his players celebrating a goal. Across the top, the headline read "UNBEATEN" in bold red-and-white striped letters.

The article highlighted Atlético's performance, noting that while their form against Valencia wasn't ideal due to the toll of international fixtures, Yang Hao's substitution of Didier Drogba had been pivotal.

"Drogba didn't just score a crucial goal; his physical presence and ability to disrupt Valencia's defensive setup were instrumental," the article stated.

El País emphasized Yang Hao's trademark approach as a coach.

"He consistently integrates his entire squad into his matchday plans, finding the right moments to unlock their potential. This strategy not only maximizes their contributions but also keeps his players in peak condition."

The piece contrasted Yang Hao's rotation policy with Real Madrid's reluctance to rotate.

"Del Bosque fielded all his superstars, but the lack of rotation left them fatigued. That's why Real Madrid suffered a shocking defeat to Racing Santander, whereas Atlético, despite international fatigue, managed to prevail."

The article also praised Yang Hao's measured and composed response to the team's rise to the top.

"At the post-match press conference, when asked if Atlético could maintain their lead and win the league, Yang Hao was refreshingly grounded."

Yang Hao had replied:

"It's only October. We've played six matches. Talking about winning the league now is premature."

He added:

"Our start has been excellent—six wins in six games, a record worth celebrating. But we will lose games and drop points. It's inevitable. Speculating about the distant future is pointless. It's far more important to focus on what's immediately ahead."

El País commended Yang Hao's wisdom, noting that his calm and focus had scored him significant respect.

"Even after their loss to Racing Santander, Real Madrid remains La Liga's strongest team. Atlético must continue to work hard and improve if they want to remain competitive."

Meanwhile, ABC also heaped praise on Atlético's performance.

The paper reflected on the summer transfer window, during which Atlético sold six key players to fund the expansion of their training facility in Majadahonda.

"Despite concerns about the squad's depth and the arrival of Ronaldo and Vieira at Real Madrid, Atlético has defied all expectations by claiming the top spot in La Liga."

ABC attributed this achievement to Yang Hao's leadership.

"His tactical decisions against Valencia demonstrated the expertise of a Champions League-winning manager. His substitutions breathed new life into the team."

The article also took a jab at Real Madrid's Vicente del Bosque, criticizing his substitutions during their defeat.

"Santiago Solari, Fernando Morientes, and Javier Portillo—two of whom are embroiled in transfer disputes—offered little impact from the bench."

Solari and Morientes, in particular, had almost been shipped off during the summer window, further highlighting internal discord.

Yang Hao was pleasantly surprised by the media's overwhelmingly positive coverage.

"Has the tide turned?" he wondered.

As the team began preparations for their fourth Champions League group-stage match, Miguel Gil arrived at the training ground with the club's PR director, Andrés Barasco, to shed light on the situation.

…

A Large Tree Offers Great Shade

In the early days, with the rise of print media and television, the relationship between clubs and the media was relatively simple.

The media focused on boosting sales, and nothing attracted more attention in Europe than football. For instance, Sky Television capitalized on live broadcasts of the Premier League and Serie A to become the king of subscription TV.

Similarly, AS and Marca gained prominence by aligning themselves with Real Madrid. Today, Marca's influence as a sports publication surpasses that of even comprehensive newspapers like El País and ABC.

The same applies to Mundo Deportivo and Sport in Catalonia, whose reach exceeds that of traditional papers like La Vanguardia.

These media outlets found in clubs a treasure trove of content that fueled skyrocketing sales. In return, clubs happily leveraged media platforms to boost their visibility and reputation among fans, often using them to guide public opinion.

However, not every club benefited equally from this symbiotic relationship.

Take Atlético Madrid, for example.

Spain's four biggest sports newspapers are sharply divided: AS and Marca lean toward Real Madrid, while Mundo Deportivo and Sport are firmly pro-Barcelona. These factions frequently clash, but occasionally, they unite to target a common rival—Atlético.

To these media giants, Atlético is an upstart disrupting their cozy power structure.

In their ideal version of La Liga, Atlético wouldn't be a contender. When Atlético won the UEFA Cup and La Liga double, the natural response from Real Madrid and Barcelona should have been to dismantle the "interloper."

Instead, Atlético not only survived but continued to grow stronger.

Consider Valencia. Despite reaching consecutive Champions League finals, they saw stars like Mendieta, Farinós, Kily González, and Gerard leave one after another.

Or Deportivo La Coruña, who won the league title only to lose Flavio Conceição to Real Madrid.

Even Celta Vigo, after a strong showing, had their midfield duo Makélélé and Celades poached by Real Madrid.

In this narrative, Real Madrid and Barcelona are the immovable superpowers, while challengers come and go.

When Atlético sold six key players last summer, many assumed they would follow the same path as Valencia, Deportivo, or Celta.

But instead of weakening, Atlético climbed to the top of the league, outperforming Real Madrid.

This upset the status quo, particularly for media outlets tied to Real Madrid.

"This is a media war," explained Andrés Barasco, Atlético's public relations director.

"It's not like a football match—loud and obvious. This one's silent but omnipresent."

"And what then?" Yang Hao asked. "You've given me a history lesson but haven't gotten to the point."

Barasco continued:

"Barcelona's in disarray. Forget about the title—if they can scrape into the top four and qualify for next season's Champions League, it'll be a success. That's why pro-Barça media have been low-key lately. Sometimes, they even praise us just to irk Real Madrid."

Yang Hao chuckled. "The enemy of my enemy is my ally—for now."

Barasco nodded.

"Among pro-Real Madrid media, AS is the most staunchly loyal."

Yang Hao smirked, remembering Oscar, the AS journalist he had tangled with. "That clown's overdue for another lesson."

"But Marca's stance has become intriguing," Barasco said with a grin. "They're still pro-Madrid, of course. But as Marca has grown, they've started to diversify. Real Madrid's appeal, while massive, has its limits.

"At this level, Marca needs to broaden its audience, which means it can't afford to be blindly biased anymore. That's why they've been appearing more neutral lately."

Spanish football fandom is sharply divided, especially between Real Madrid and Atlético fans. For Marca to grow, it must attract readers from both camps, hence its increasingly balanced approach.

"Of course," Barasco added, "Marca is still predominantly pro-Madrid.

"Atlético, by contrast, has little media support—an isolated underdog."

During Jesús Gil's tenure as club president, Atlético's relationship with the press was notoriously hostile, leaving the club with a poor public image. Rebuilding that reputation would take time.

Since Barasco assumed his role, Atlético had been working to improve relations with the media, maintaining a largely neutral stance and avoiding unnecessary conflicts.

Their most significant achievement to date was Enrique Cerezo's election as chairman of La Liga's board, thanks to initiatives supported by Yang Hao and Miguel Gil.

This demonstrated Atlético's growing influence in Spanish football.

Coupled with their on-field success and debt-free status, Atlético had become a model club admired by peers across La Liga and Segunda División.

Strengthening Media Relations

Barasco proposed that Atlético deepen its engagement with the media by opening up the Majadahonda training base and allowing more embedded journalists.

"Many clubs already do this," Barasco explained. "Some players even have great relationships with the journalists assigned to cover them."

"We'll establish clear ground rules," he added. "What can be published and what can't will be strictly controlled. Our communications department will assign dedicated staff to oversee this."

The goal? To improve Atlético's public image and strengthen ties with the press.

"You want us to create our own media mouthpiece?" Yang Hao asked.

Barasco shook his head. "That's unrealistic."

"Why not?"

"The big four sports papers are already divided. The two Catalan ones are out of the question. Marca is expanding its scope, but it's still pro-Madrid. And AS? Well, you know."

Yang Hao nodded. "True enough."

"Think about it," Barasco said. "Even general-interest outlets like El País and ABC struggle to compete with Marca and AS. And with Real Madrid's star power, what publication would abandon them?"

Yang Hao understood. It wasn't feasible to create a rival media empire.

But then an idea struck him.

"What about our collaboration with Yahoo and the U.S.?"

"That's going well," Barasco said. "We've got a dedicated channel and are managing the blogs you suggested."

"Good," Yang Hao said. "We should focus on developing unique content—behind-the-scenes stories, fun tidbits from the team. Let's build stronger connections with fans worldwide."

At a time when platforms like YouTube and Facebook had yet to emerge, creating and sharing multimedia content was still a challenge. The world needed a few more years for such innovations to truly take shape.

Given the circumstances, making significant strides in this area would take time, but it was an inevitable shift.

"Trust me," Yang Hao said with conviction. "Keep investing in this space. Stick with it. Once we figure out the internet's potential, that's how we'll change the game."

"You really think the internet can compete with traditional media?" asked Andrés Barasco.

"One hundred percent."

Barasco understood Yang Hao's vision.

If the internet could genuinely challenge print media, Atlético wouldn't need to rely on biased mouthpieces for its voice to be heard.

Why couldn't Atlético speak up effectively now?

Because it lacked a platform. Without channels to amplify its voice, any effort to speak out would go unnoticed.

But if the internet turned out as Yang Hao predicted, it would provide that missing channel. By then, Atlético could bypass the established media entirely.

And those same media outlets? They'd have no choice but to come crawling back.

"I get it," Barasco said, nodding. "I'll focus more on this area moving forward and increase our online presence."

Barasco respected Yang Hao's foresight.

After all, Yang Hao wasn't just Atlético's head coach.

When frustrated with the club's inefficient administrative systems, he'd personally overseen the creation of a software tool. That tool was now valued in the tens of millions of euros, with investment from major venture capital firms like Sequoia Capital.

So, Yang Hao's instincts were not to be underestimated.

Still, the internet revolution was years away. For now, Atlético had to coexist with traditional media.

Yang Hao agreed with Barasco's suggestion to strengthen relationships with the press.

With Yang Hao's approval, Barasco took charge, leaving the coach to focus on what he did best: football.

...

October 22, Vicente Calderón Stadium

UEFA Champions League Group Stage, Matchday 4

Atlético Madrid vs. PSV Eindhoven

Just one minute into the match, Diego Forlán pressed high on PSV's central defenders, forcing a misplaced pass. Deco pounced on the opportunity, intercepting the ball and glancing toward Joaquín on the right.

But Joaquín, having just tracked back, was too far behind the play. The left flank, however, was wide open.

Without hesitation, Deco delivered a curling pass with pinpoint precision to the edge of PSV's penalty area.

A blur of red and white darted into the box. It was Reyes. Moving like lightning, he struck the ball mid-air with his left foot, sending it rocketing into the net.

A thunderous cheer erupted throughout the stadium.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"

"Reyes!!"

"Less than one minute into the match, Spain's wonderkid Reyes scores with a stunning volley!"

"What an incredible goal! A brilliant display of speed and skill, cutting through PSV's defense like an arrow."

Reyes celebrated by sprinting across the pitch, arms outstretched.

Even when Vicente was part of the team, Reyes had consistently delivered dazzling performances. Now, with even more freedom, his potential seemed limitless. And he was only 19 years old.

Yang Hao applauded enthusiastically from the sideline. When Reyes returned after his celebration, the coach stepped forward to give him a high-five and a hug.

"Keep it up, kid!" Yang Hao encouraged.

"Thank you, boss!" Reyes replied before jogging back onto the field.

The match resumed.

After leading South Korea to the World Cup semifinals, Guus Hiddink had returned to manage PSV Eindhoven.

Back in the Champions League after years away, PSV's campaign had been rough. Aside from a goalless draw against Auxerre, they'd suffered heavy defeats to both Arsenal and Atlético.

However, the international break gave Hiddink time to regroup. Despite conceding within the first minute, PSV stuck to their pragmatic defensive game plan, relying on counterattacks with Kežman as the spearhead.

The score remained 1–0 until the 57th minute.

When PSV finally attempted to push forward, Marcos Senna intercepted a loose ball in midfield and immediately launched a counterattack.

Senna wasn't just a defensive stalwart; his vision and passing were equally impressive.

Spotting an opportunity on the right, he delivered a perfectly weighted ball to Joaquín.

Joaquín charged down the wing, reaching the edge of the penalty area before spotting Deco making a late run. With a deft chip, Joaquín lofted the ball over the PSV defenders.

Deco controlled it on his chest, then played a low cross into the six-yard box.

Forlán met the pass with a thunderous strike, doubling Atlético's lead.

2–0.

...

Meanwhile, at Highbury Stadium, Arsenal faced Auxerre in a match plagued with setbacks.

Within eight minutes, Kapo unleashed a long-range strike to give Auxerre the lead.

Shortly after, Fadiga doubled their advantage following a catastrophic mistake by Arsenal's center-back Pascal Cygan.

Despite relentless efforts, Arsenal couldn't break through Auxerre's defense. French starlet Philippe Mexès, under the radar of Europe's biggest clubs (including Arsenal), delivered a standout performance, neutralizing Thierry Henry for most of the match.

It wasn't until the 53rd minute that Henry managed to assist Kanu for a goal, narrowing the deficit.

However, Arsenal failed to score again.

The match ended 1–2, marking a shocking home defeat for Wenger's side.

Post-match, goalkeeper David Seaman bore the brunt of criticism. His sluggish reaction to Kapo's long-range effort highlighted his declining form at 39 years old. Cygan's blunders further compounded Arsenal's woes.

In the press conference, a visibly frustrated Wenger lashed out, accusing his players of complacency.

...

While Atlético thrived, Arsenal stumbled.

Yang Hao couldn't help but feel a sense of schadenfreude upon hearing the results.

"Wenger, huh?" he mused with a sly grin. "Looks like even the best can have their off days."

"I am extremely disappointed. We lost our cutting-edge attack. This match showed we are no longer the formidable force we used to be."

Arsène Wenger attributed Arsenal's defeat to arrogance.

Before the match, Auxerre's coach Guy Roux had repeatedly played the underdog, showering Arsenal with praise. He even publicly stated that Auxerre had no chance of advancing to the next round of the group stage.

"Unless we receive divine intervention, we won't have that kind of opportunity. That's why we're focusing on the UEFA Cup."

Everyone assumed Auxerre had thrown in the towel. Even Arsenal's players approached the match at Highbury with overconfidence.

Then Guy Roux pulled off a masterstroke, delivering a stunning upset.

...

"Truly, when it comes to cunning, age is still the best teacher," Yang Hao said, grinning as he received news of the result. He couldn't help but applaud Guy Roux.

This legendary coach had guided Auxerre for decades, turning the small-town club into French champions and regulars in the Champions League. Such achievements were far from ordinary.

Guy Roux's tactical masterclass at Highbury had humbled Arsenal.

Before this round, most had written off Auxerre and PSV Eindhoven's chances of advancing.

But now?

Guy Roux had dragged Arsenal down—and in their own backyard.

With this result, Atlético Madrid sat comfortably at the top of the group with 10 points, having already secured qualification for the knockout stage. Arsenal remained on 7 points in second place, while Auxerre, with 4 points, retained a slim chance of advancing.

The remaining fixtures? Auxerre would first face PSV Eindhoven away, then host a potentially unmotivated Atlético in the final round.

Meanwhile, Arsenal had to travel to the Vicente Calderón to face Atlético in the next match.

"I'm suddenly curious to see Arsenal in the UEFA Cup," Yang Hao joked with a mischievous grin. "They'd probably win it."

His staff, including Juanma Lillo, burst into laughter.

Whenever Yang Hao made such jests, it usually spelled bad luck for Wenger.

...

One Week Later, Vicente Calderón Stadium

David Seaman, Arsenal's 39-year-old goalkeeper, had been having a rough patch. To change his fortunes, he had decided to revamp his iconic look.

He cut his signature ponytail, shaved his mustache, and even got a new pair of gloves—essentially a complete reset.

But as it turned out, his misfortune wasn't tied to his appearance. He was just plain unlucky.

Barely two minutes into the match, Reyes broke free on the left flank, outmaneuvering Lauren. He delivered a precise low cross that slipped between Arsenal's center-backs, Sol Campbell and Håvard Nordtveit, and rolled toward the right side of the penalty area.

Joaquín sprinted into position, controlled the ball, and found himself one-on-one with Seaman.

With the striker closing in, Seaman had no choice but to come off his line.

Just as he dived to block, Joaquín swiftly poked the ball away, only to be taken down by Seaman in the box.

The referee blew the whistle immediately: penalty.

Seaman froze; Wenger froze; and even Yang Hao had a moment of stunned disbelief.

Two minutes!

"Big guy, we weren't planning on scoring this early!" Yang Hao muttered, incredulous.

"I was ready for a defensive battle, mentally prepared to counterattack. And here you are, throwing us a penalty right at the start? What are we supposed to do with this?!"

Standing on the sidelines, Juanma Lillo nudged Yang Hao. "Take a look at Wenger's face."

Yang turned and saw Wenger standing by the visitors' bench, visibly fuming but utterly speechless.

Seaman, once a symbol of Arsenal's defensive strength and a stalwart for England, looked thoroughly defeated. At 39, it was clear his age was catching up with him.

Not every goalkeeper could maintain top form into their late 30s like Edwin van der Sar or Gianluigi Buffon.

"Well," Yang Hao sighed, "guess we'll have to take the penalty and score."

Joaquín stepped up to the spot and calmly converted the penalty he had earned, putting Atlético ahead 1–0.

This match was crucial for Arsenal—not just for securing the top spot in the group, but for ensuring qualification for the knockout stage.

A loss here, coupled with an Auxerre win over PSV Eindhoven, would leave Arsenal level on points with Auxerre. Given head-to-head results, Auxerre would leapfrog Arsenal in the standings.

The final round could then become a nightmare for Wenger's team: Auxerre facing an already-qualified Atlético, while Arsenal hosted a desperate PSV.

Perhaps aware of the stakes, Arsenal launched an all-out assault on Atlético.

This was exactly why Yang Hao had drilled his team in defensive counterattacks before the match.

In the 14th minute, Atlético executed a lightning-quick counter. On the left, Evra and Reyes combined beautifully in a one-two exchange, with Evra delivering a pinpoint cross into the penalty area.

Diego Forlán surged forward and smashed the ball into the net. 2–0.

Just four minutes later, Thierry Henry stepped up for Arsenal, scoring with a stunning direct free kick to make it 2–1.

For the rest of the match, Arsenal poured forward relentlessly, especially in the second half. Their waves of attacks were unrelenting.

But in the 68th minute, Atlético struck again. Reyes, causing havoc on the left, drew a foul from Lauren, earning a free kick near the penalty area.

Deco took the set piece, aiming to curl the ball into the box. Atlético's center-backs, Lucio and Carvalho, surged forward to join the attack.

Surprisingly, the first player to reach the ball was Gilberto Silva.

What happened next stunned everyone.

Rather than clearing the ball, Gilberto inadvertently headed it toward his own goal.

A stunned David Seaman could only watch as the ball sailed into the net.

An own goal.

Seaman looked ready to cry.

"My ponytail, my mustache—all gone for nothing!"

"What kind of world is this? A penalty, and now an own goal?! Is this some cosmic joke?"

Yang Hao almost burst out laughing on the sidelines.

The absurdity of the situation was hard to process. A penalty, an own goal—it was all so theatrical that it felt like a poorly written football novel.

If someone had dared to pen a story this ridiculous, readers would have torn it apart, drowning the author in criticism.

Yet here it was, happening in real life. Reality truly was stranger than fiction.

All Yang Hao had wanted was a simple, straightforward defensive counter-attacking match. But instead, he got this mess—penalties, own goals, and a win that almost felt unearned.

"Life just doesn't play fair sometimes, does it?" he muttered to himself, barely holding back a grin.

...

"Go ahead and laugh if you want to."

Post-match, when Yang Hao shook hands with Arsène Wenger, the Frenchman looked utterly dejected.

Wenger still couldn't wrap his head around how everything could go so wrong in one night.

"Honestly, I'm not rubbing it in, really. I'm not that kind of guy…" Yang Hao said, trying to keep a straight face.

Wenger's skeptical look said it all: Are you sure about that?

Because he certainly looked like he was enjoying every second of this.

"I mean it! You guys were just… unlucky tonight," Yang Hao said, finally unable to suppress his laughter.

Wenger could only sigh heavily. But the night wasn't all bad for him—there was some good news.

PSV Eindhoven had beaten Auxerre 3–0 at home.

The new standings made the group dynamics fascinating:

Atlético Madrid: 13 points, already through to the knockout stage.

Arsenal: 7 points, still second but under pressure.

PSV Eindhoven and Auxerre: 4 points each, with a slim chance of advancing.

In the final round, Auxerre would host Atlético, while Arsenal would play PSV at Highbury.

The math was simple for Arsenal: they couldn't afford to lose to PSV. A loss, combined with an Auxerre win over Atlético, would send Arsenal to the UEFA Cup. And if Arsenal lost badly, they might not even get that.

"Don't worry, I'll give it my all in the last round," Yang Hao said with mock seriousness as they parted ways.

Wenger's expression clearly read: Yang Hao dependable? Sure, and pigs can fly.

...

Between Champions League fixtures, Atlético played their 7th La Liga match but were held to a 0–0 draw by Celta Vigo despite fielding their strongest lineup.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid beat Villarreal 2–0 at home, cutting Atlético's lead at the top of the table to just one point.

After their game against Arsenal, Atlético returned to La Liga action in Round 8, defeating Rayo Vallecano 2–0 at home with goals from Marchena and Torres.

Real Madrid also secured a narrow 1–0 away win over Deportivo La Coruña.

Three days later, in the Copa del Rey third round, Atlético faced third-division side Cultural Leonesa. Yang Hao rotated heavily, fielding a team of backups and youth players. Goals from Robben and Villa secured a 2–0 away victory and progression to the next round.

The weekend brought Round 9 of La Liga, with Atlético hosting Athletic Bilbao. Diego Forlán stole the show with a stunning hat-trick, reminding everyone of his clinical finishing.

Two of his goals came from powerful long-range strikes, a trademark of the Uruguayan striker.

The match ended 3–1 in Atlético's favor.

Simultaneously, Real Madrid cruised to a 3–0 win over Rayo Vallecano.

The standings at the top of La Liga:

Atlético Madrid: 25 points

Real Madrid: 24 points

Real Sociedad: 21 points

Real Sociedad's attacking trio—Karpin, Nihat, and Kovacevic—was tearing through defenses, keeping the Basque side in contention. Though their midfield lacked Xabi Alonso this season, their forward firepower was compensating for it.

Still, Yang Hao could tell Real Sociedad was running on fumes. Their title challenge wouldn't last.

...

Three days later, Yang Hao led his team to France to face Auxerre in the Champions League.

With Atlético already qualified, Yang Hao prioritized rest for his starters, fielding a lineup of reserves and rotation players, including Didier Drogba.

Auxerre, however, had everything to play for and fought with ferocity.

The match was a grueling battle. Finally, in the 76th minute, Auxerre broke the deadlock with a goal from a substitute, winning 1–0.

Atlético's efforts to equalize came to nothing, and Yang Hao's team "unfortunately" lost.

"I really tried my best," Yang Hao said afterward, suppressing a sly grin. "I genuinely wanted to help Arsenal… reach the UEFA Cup."

But PSV had let him down.

Wenger's team had been struggling, particularly with David Seaman's poor form. In this match, Wenger had turned to backup goalkeeper Rami Shaaban, a Swede.

It turned out to be a stroke of luck: Arsenal kept a clean sheet.

Despite PSV's relentless attacking, Håvard Nordtveit and Sol Campbell's center-back pairing, along with the midfield duo of Mark van Bommel and Gilberto Silva, held firm.

The match ended 0–0, ensuring Arsenal's survival.

When Wenger learned that Atlético had lost to Auxerre, he immediately recalled Yang Hao's earlier promise to "try his best."

"Damn it! I knew that kid couldn't be trusted!"

He shook his head but couldn't help a smile of relief. "It's a good thing I've always relied on myself. Long live qualification!"

After the Champions League first group stage concluded, the final list of the 16 teams advancing was revealed.

Parrales wasted no time organizing these teams by seeding, dividing them into first and second tiers, based on their UEFA coefficients. That's when something hilariously awkward became apparent: Atlético Madrid's second-stage group was practically decided.

From the first tier, three teams were from La Liga: Real Madrid, Valencia, and Deportivo La Coruña.

The only non-Spanish team in the top tier? Manchester United.

This left Atlético with only one possible opponent from the first-tier group—Manchester United.

Things got even spicier in the second-tier group. Apart from Atlético, the remaining three teams were all Italian powerhouses: AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Juventus.

But wait, there's more.

The third-tier group included AS Roma, meaning Roma would only face one team from the second-tier group: Atlético Madrid.

Unlucky Roma! Last season, they were placed in the same group as Real Madrid in the first stage and Atlético Madrid in the second stage. This season, it was déjà vu.

Last season's second-stage group consisted of Manchester United, Atlético Madrid, Roma, and Bayern Munich.

The difference this season? Bayern Munich had embarrassingly crashed out of the group stage, finishing dead last.

As for the fourth-tier group, Atlético hoped to avoid freezing in Moscow by dodging Lokomotiv Moscow. That left Basel and Ajax as potential opponents.

While Basel was the weakest option, Ajax's young squad was a nightmare waiting to happen.

This Ajax team, led by Ronald Koeman, featured an unbelievable roster of future stars: Zlatan Ibrahimović, Rafael van der Vaart, Wesley Sneijder, John Heitinga, Chivu, Maxwell, Trabelsi, Pienaar, Litmanen, and De Jong, just to name a few.

The team's talent density was staggering—a final golden generation for Ajax's fabled youth academy.

Van der Vaart was still unscathed by injuries and was arguably Europe's hottest Dutch prospect at the time, even overshadowing Ibrahimović. Meanwhile, Chivu was one of the most coveted young center-backs in Europe.

And Ajax's reserves? They included future stars like Thomas Vermaelen and Ryan Babel.

When the draw finally took place at the Hilton Hotel in Geneva, Atlético dodged Lokomotiv Moscow's freezing tundra but wasn't so lucky otherwise.

Their group was confirmed: Manchester United, Atlético Madrid, AS Roma, and Ajax.

It was the "Group of Death" all over again.

The Guardian summed it up perfectly: "The Champions League is unforgiving!"

"A Fascinating Group"

Back at Atlético's training base in Majadahonda, Yang Hao wasted no time. Upon learning the draw results, he and his coaching staff immediately delved into the match data and scouting reports for all three group opponents from the past two seasons.

This rapid information retrieval was a testament to the reforms Yang Hao had implemented over the past two years.

Within hours, they had every stat and detail at their fingertips.

"Two youthful teams and two seasoned giants—this group is bound to be thrilling," Yang Hao remarked, his tone calm and measured.

Fear? Not a chance. Atlético Madrid feared no one—not even their star-studded crosstown rivals, Real Madrid.

But confidence didn't mean recklessness. "Not being afraid and being fully prepared are two different things."

"This might be the toughest group," said assistant coach Juanma Lillo, visibly concerned.

"You know, this year's Champions League final is at Old Trafford. Manchester United will stop at nothing to make it to the final, maybe even win it," Lillo added.

Sir Alex Ferguson had spent big in the summer, signing Rio Ferdinand and Edwin van der Sar for hefty fees. Officially, the purchases were billed as ensuring stability in goal for the next five years.

But the real reason? Ferguson wanted to guarantee Manchester United reached the final—and lifted the trophy—at home.

As for Roma and Ajax, their strength spoke for itself.

The stakes were high, and there was no room for a sluggish start, unlike last season when Atlético stumbled early in the second-stage group.

"Some mistakes can only be made once," Yang Hao reminded his team.

Manchester United's massive spending had them laser-focused on European glory.

Tactical Adjustments

Juanma Lillo urged caution. "Even though our midfield has been outstanding, the intensity of these group games will be overwhelming. We should adopt a more pragmatic approach to avoid last season's pitfalls."

Atlético's midfield trio of Deco, Xabi Alonso, and Baraja had grown increasingly synchronized. Their versatility in both attack and defense made them indispensable.

Much of this success stemmed from the tactical system Yang Hao had tailored for Xabi Alonso. By maximizing Alonso's long-passing ability, Atlético's offense had become more dynamic and unpredictable.

When opponents marked Alonso out of the game? No problem—Baraja and Deco could step up. Both had the skills to carry the ball forward and execute precise passes. Deco, in particular, added a creative spark that expanded Atlético's attacking options.

The result? A midfield that flowed seamlessly into attack.

Beyond the midfield, Marcos Senna was quietly excelling in the lone defensive midfield role.

Unlike Alonso, Senna thrived under high-pressure situations, effortlessly shrugging off opposition pressing while distributing the ball with calm precision. His stamina and relentless defensive work made him indispensable.

The only downside? Without Alonso, Atlético's long-range distribution took a hit, forcing them to rely on short-passing buildup through Deco.

A Relentless and Unified Attack

On the flanks, Atlético had moved away from control-oriented players like Fabio Aurelio. Their current approach could be summed up in one word: speed.

But Yang Hao's "speed" wasn't reckless. Unlike many coaches who leaned on raw pace, he built Atlético's attack around team cohesion.

Atlético's wingers—Reyes, Joaquín, Robben, and even forwards like Villa—were blisteringly fast. So were their full-backs, like Evra, Maicon, Antonio López, and Dani Alves.

Most coaches would be tempted to simply hand the ball to players like Robben and say, "Go."

But Yang Hao had a different philosophy: protect your players from burnout and injury while fostering their growth.

Over-relying on pace left players vulnerable—not just to injury but also to tactical nullification.

Yang Hao had seen it before. Robben's overuse in his earlier years left him fragile and one-dimensional.

"By teaching them to work within the team, we don't just save their bodies—we build their football intelligence," Yang Hao told his staff.

Atlético's rise to La Liga leaders was no accident.

It was the product of deliberate tactics, precise player management, and a vision for sustainable success.

Atlético Madrid wasn't just a rising powerhouse.

They were a team built to last.

From Groningen to Eindhoven, from Chelsea to Real Madrid, Robben burst onto the scene at the peak of his powers, always pushing forward at full throttle.

But did he ever truly develop his right foot? Did his finishing improve? Did his awareness of team play evolve?

Robben's biggest criticism during his Chelsea days?

He was a ball hog.

Why was he selfish? Because his toolkit was too limited, and managers often used him in overly predictable ways. The moment he got the ball, the expectation was to attack at full speed.

As a result, injuries plagued him, turning him into the "Glass Man."

Yang Hao approached Robben's development with much more restraint.

Speed is like a nuclear weapon—it shouldn't be used recklessly.

When wielded, it should deliver a decisive blow.

If there isn't a clear opportunity, Robben integrates into the team's overall play, employing wall passes, diagonal through balls, controlled dribbles, or cutting inside to bide time.

By blending into the team's structure and using passing, off-the-ball movement, and positioning to create opportunities, he becomes harder to target, less prone to injury, and more well-rounded.

The downside?

Progress comes slower.

Yang Hao could easily design a system that makes Robben a one-on-one wing wizard in La Liga overnight. Let him exploit his raw speed to dominate opponents, and he would quickly become a viral sensation.

Media and fans would call him a genius. His market value would skyrocket.

But then what?

He'd follow the same trajectory as in Yang Hao's previous life—off to Barcelona, Manchester United, or Chelsea. The reliance on speed would spiral into an injury-ridden career, leaving Robben a fragile shadow of his potential.

If fortune smiled, Robben might slow down and develop his signature right-wing inside cut later in his career. That was his prime.

But if luck turned against him? He'd become another cautionary tale of wasted talent.

Few ever considered the "what if."

What if Robben had grown slower but steadier, honing a balanced skill set early in his career?

Could his achievements have surpassed what we saw in Yang Hao's previous life?

Yang Hao had proof that such an approach worked.

Take Adriano.

Under Yang Hao's tutelage, Adriano's right foot had improved drastically over two years, making him a far more complete player.

As Adriano's right foot caught up with his left, his overall game skyrocketed.

This was the result of systematic, science-driven player development.

Clubs Treating Players as Disposable Commodities

Yang Hao often reflected on how the post-Bosman ruling era of the mid-1990s transformed top-tier football. With free-flowing talent pipelines and globalized mobility, elite clubs found themselves spoiled for choice.

"Players have become consumables," Yang Hao remarked.

Top clubs, especially the mega-rich, discarded players without a second thought.

"Who cares if they burn out? I can always buy another one. It's not like I can't afford it."

Take Real Madrid. Despite spending astronomical sums on superstars, they consistently skimped on medical facilities and staff.

Yang Hao couldn't fathom why.

Atlético's Vision: Playing the Long Game

Atlético Madrid was an anomaly. Under Yang Hao's guidance, the club invested heavily in player welfare, sports science, and medical infrastructure.

Many scoffed at this approach. Even Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo occasionally questioned the millions poured into such initiatives.

"Wouldn't it make more sense to spend that money on another star player?"

Yang Hao's reply?

"Give it a few years, and you'll thank yourselves for making this decision."

Over time, players noticed the difference. Those who left Atlético for other clubs often spoke of the stark contrast in how they were treated. This enhanced Atlético's reputation as a player-first club, bolstering its long-term appeal.

November 16: La Liga Round 10 – Atlético vs. Espanyol

Despite sitting 18th in the table and entrenched in the relegation zone, Espanyol proved to be fierce competitors, especially at home.

The match began with Espanyol disrupting Atlético's rhythm in midfield, breaking up their passing sequences. Upfront, they relied on Raúl Tamudo to spearhead counterattacks.

For La Liga enthusiasts, Tamudo was a well-known threat.

The stalemate persisted until the 25th minute when Atlético gradually began dictating play. Through controlled possession, they started probing Espanyol's defense.

The breakthrough came in the 35th minute.

After intercepting the ball, Xabi Alonso launched a pinpoint long pass to Reyes, who stormed into the box and unleashed a shot. Espanyol's goalkeeper, Jiménez, made a brilliant save, but it was Atlético's closest chance so far.

Momentum shifted further in Atlético's favor.

In the 40th minute, Deco evaded his marker and pushed the ball forward to Diego Forlán.

The Uruguayan, with his back to goal, laid the ball off perfectly. Baraja surged forward, firing a thunderous shot from the edge of the box into the top-right corner.

1–0!

The home crowd fell silent as Yang Hao applauded from the sideline.

Baraja's unleashed offensive instincts had transformed him into a scoring threat.

During injury time, Deco attempted a lofted pass behind the defense into the box. Espanyol's keeper Jiménez rushed out and punched the ball clear.

However, the ball landed outside the box at Baraja's feet. Without hesitation, he unleashed another rocket.

This time, the shot deflected off a defender and fell kindly to Diego Forlán, who tapped it into an open net.

2–0!

Second Half: Baraja the "Long-Range Bomber"

The second half resumed, and Baraja showed no signs of slowing down. In the 60th minute, he unleashed yet another long-range strike, this time rattling the right post.

Yang Hao chuckled on the sideline.

"What's gotten into him tonight? He's a long-shot maniac!"

Assistant coach Juanma Lillo laughed. "He must've had an energy drink before the game."

Espanyol's deep defensive block was partly to blame. Their strategy invited Baraja to exploit gaps outside the penalty area.

Full-Time: A Controlled Victory

The match ended with Atlético securing a 2–0 win.

Baraja's standout performance was the highlight, as his aggression in midfield disrupted Espanyol and drove Atlético forward.

Yang Hao's careful balancing act between attacking brilliance and team cohesion once again proved its worth.

For Espanyol, however, the loss only deepened their relegation woes. As Yang Hao often joked:

"The best kind of rival is a relegated rival!"

When Diego Forlán pushes up, the midfielders arriving for second-wave opportunities naturally get more chances to shoot.

Speaking of long-range specialists in Atlético's squad, there are quite a few: Forlán is lethal from outside the box, and the likes of Deco, Simeone, and Xabi Alonso are also skilled at scoring from distance.

But one name that surprises many? Marcos Senna.

Despite often anchoring the defensive line, Senna has a powerful shot from range. The only problem? His defensive duties rarely afford him the opportunity to unleash it.

In the 59th minute, Maicon's surging run down the right culminated in a blistering strike from inside the box, assisted by Joaquín's perfectly timed pass.

3–0!

Joaquín then joined the party in the 74th minute, scoring a goal himself to extend Atlético's lead to 4–0.

Near the end of the match, substitute David Villa capitalized on a swift counterattack. After receiving a perfectly weighted through ball from Xabi Alonso, Villa broke the offside trap and calmly finished inside the box to seal the deal.

5–0!

Dominant. Unstoppable. Relentless.

Atlético obliterated relegation-threatened Espanyol with a 5–0 rout, showcasing their overwhelming superiority. Throughout the match, the Colchoneros displayed total control, suffocating Espanyol's efforts and consistently creating chances.

A five-goal margin of victory? Absolutely deserved.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid managed a narrow 1–0 home win over Real Sociedad, keeping them just one point behind Atlético.

The Catalan Crisis: Barça Hits Rock Bottom

The standout clash of the round was Barcelona's visit to Deportivo La Coruña.

For 80 minutes, the match was deadlocked at 0–0. Then, Deportivo struck twice through Scaloni and Luque, securing a 2–0 victory.

After 10 matches, Barcelona had plummeted to 11th place in La Liga, amassing a paltry 13 points.

Speculation about Louis van Gaal's job security was rife. Many believed the Dutch coach wouldn't make it to Christmas.

A Rival's Misfortune: Perfect for Schadenfreude

What's a rival good for if not for taking delight in their misery?

The best kind of rival? A relegated rival.

With Barcelona in freefall, Real Madrid gleefully stepped in to apply the finishing blow in La Liga's 11th round.

At the Camp Nou, Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–0, with goals from Vieira and Ronaldo. The loss marked what many saw as the final nail in van Gaal's coffin.

For Atlético, the same round saw a 1–0 home win over Real Betis, with Fernando Torres scoring the only goal in the 13th minute.

As a result, the Madrid clubs remained atop the standings, while Barcelona tumbled to 12th place, just three points above the relegation zone.

Catalonia in Crisis Mode

The Catalan media descended into despair. Fans vented their fury at everyone: van Gaal, his coaching staff, the players, and most venomously, club president Joan Gaspart.

"Incompetent fool!" they screamed.

With a roster brimming with stars, Gaspart's leadership had somehow managed to drag Barcelona to the brink of relegation.

If Barça did get relegated, the fans vowed, everyone involved would go down in history as "the club's ultimate villains."

Desperate Times, Desperate Measures

In the midst of this chaos, Gaspart somehow got hold of Yang Hao's phone number.

Panic at the Camp Nou

After ending the call, Yang Hao could only shake his head.

Gaspart had offered him the Barcelona job, promising him unprecedented control.

Yet, in his honest, straightforward manner, Gaspart also confessed that the club was facing severe financial constraints. Any winter signings would require selling players first, and even that wouldn't leave much room for reinforcements.

Yang Hao couldn't help but respect the man's candor.

But as a club president? Gaspart was woefully out of his depth.

Taking the Barcelona job? Absolutely out of the question.

Yang Hao wasn't about to leave Atlético. Even if he did, Barcelona was a no-go.

Who could manage that volatile dressing room? Especially with characters like Riquelme, who, despite his immense talent, had proven to be a handful.

Barça's struggles reinforced an eternal truth in football: no matter how star-studded the roster, a fractured team is unmanageable.

On paper, Barcelona's squad shouldn't be anywhere near the relegation zone. Yet here they were, teetering on the edge.

If things continued down this path, Yang Hao joked, "I'll buy a truckload of fireworks to celebrate at Majadahonda!"

And if, by some extraordinary twist of fate, Barcelona were relegated?

"Not a problem. I'll buy their players, take their trophies, and throw them a proper send-off with a coffin dance."

UEFA Champions League: First Group Stage Wrap-Up

A quick trivia question:

How many goals does a team need to score to advance from the first group stage of the UEFA Champions League?

A bit of logical deduction: the lowest point total for a second-place team to qualify was 7 points (Lokomotiv Moscow).

So, at minimum, a team needs two wins and a draw.

And to achieve that? At least two goals.

Answer: Two goals.

Now, here's the kicker: which team scored the fewest goals yet still advanced?

Answer: Fabio Capello's AS Roma.

Capello's Minimalist Masterclass

Roma scored a grand total of two goals in the first group stage. Yet they managed to secure 9 points and qualify.

How?

Two 1–0 wins. Three 0–0 draws.

Incredible.

After losing 3–0 to Real Madrid in their opening match, Capello completely shifted gears, adopting a hyper-defensive approach. Against AEK Athens and Genk, he clung to 0–0 and 1–0 results, prioritizing clean sheets above all else.

The strategy worked.

With just two goals scored, Roma made it to the second group stage, leaving the football world stunned.

Capello's philosophy was clear: "Why score more than one goal when one is enough?"

Across Europe, pundits were equal parts incredulous and admiring. Some even joked about building statues to honor the Italian's devotion to defensive football.

Unstoppable Force Meets Immovable Object: Atlético vs. Roma

November 27, Olympic Stadium, Rome.

In the first match of the Champions League Second Group Stage, Atlético Madrid faced Roma away from home.

After clashing with both Atlético and Real Madrid last season, and once again meeting Real Madrid in the first group stage this season, Fabio Capello brought a wealth of experience against the Spanish giants.

For this match, Capello switched his usual 3-5-2 to a more conservative 4-4-2, aiming to neutralize Atlético's fluid attack:

Goalkeeper: Antonioli

Defenders: Candela, Zebina, Samuel, Panucci

Midfielders: Delvecchio, Emerson, Lima, Cafu

Forwards: Cassano, Totti

Meanwhile, Atlético stuck to their tried-and-true 4-3-3:

Goalkeeper: Čech

Defenders: Evra, Carvalho, Lucio, Maicon

Midfielders: Kaká, Xabi Alonso, Baraja

Forwards: Reyes, Torres, Joaquín

Atlético Takes the Initiative

Right from kickoff, Atlético Madrid dominated possession, pressing high and launching waves of attacks against Roma's famously impenetrable defense.

However, Capello's men stuck to their tried-and-tested strategy: absorb pressure and counterattack.

Within the first six minutes, Delvecchio delivered a cross from the left. Cassano, positioned inside the box, skillfully controlled the ball, feinted past Lucio, and fired a shot that was only denied by Čech's heroics.

That marked the first dangerous opportunity of the match, and it came from Roma.

Undeterred, Atlético pressed on.

Capello's defensive organization was flawless, with his midfield and defense compactly retreating to guard the penalty area. The result? Roma's goal area became a fortress, crowded with bodies.

"This is impossible!"

By the 10th minute, Totti attempted a header off Cafu's cross, but it posed little threat.

Atlético continued to control the ball, building attacks but failing to break through Roma's defensive wall.

On the touchline, Yang Hao watched the unfolding stalemate with a mix of exasperation and amusement.

"Fine, Capello. If you won't come out, I'll turtle too. Let's see who blinks first."

But ultimately, Yang Hao's pride won out. As the away team, Atlético had to take the initiative.

Endless Attacks, No Breakthrough

Atlético threw everything at Roma in the first half:

Kaká's dribbles through the middle.

Joaquín and Maicon's relentless crosses from the right.

Xabi Alonso's long-range passes.

Baraja's efforts to break lines.

Even a series of well-taken corners and free kicks.

By halftime, Atlético had fired multiple shots on goal—long-range efforts, headers, volleys—but the scoreline remained 0-0.

Second Half: A Familiar Pattern

The second half began much like the first: Atlético pressing, Roma defending deep.

By the 55th minute, Capello made his first substitution, bringing on Cufré for Delvecchio and pushing Candela higher up the left flank.

The change was aimed at neutralizing the threat posed by Joaquín and Maicon on Atlético's right wing.

Meanwhile, on the visitors' bench, Yang Hao spotted Pep Guardiola on Roma's roster, awkwardly smiling at him from afar. The legendary midfielder was among several high-profile players, including Batistuta and Montella, sitting on the bench.

Enter Didier Drogba

By the 65th minute, Yang Hao called for his first substitution.

"Get Didier warmed up," he instructed his assistant.

Moments later, Drogba stood beside Yang Hao, receiving last-minute instructions:

"Zebina likes to step up and mark tightly. Samuel stays deeper. Use your strength to disrupt them. If you can score, great. If not, create space for the others—understood?"

"Got it, boss," Drogba nodded.

The 65th-minute substitution saw Drogba replace Torres.

As Drogba ran onto the pitch, Roma fans erupted into a chorus of boos, some of which carried unmistakable racist undertones—a grim but common occurrence in certain Italian stadiums.

Drogba, however, was unfazed. He quickly approached Kaká:

"I'll push their line higher. You and Baraja, be ready to follow up."

The Turning Point

Atlético's strategy shifted immediately. Drogba's presence gave them a focal point up front.

In the 68th minute, Maicon delivered a diagonal pass into the box. Drogba, using his immense physical strength, backed into Zebina, shielding the ball as he edged closer to goal.

Zebina tried everything—pushing, tugging—but Drogba was immovable.

GOAL! Drogba Breaks the Deadlock

Just as Zebina seemed ready to concede a foul, Drogba spun away, creating a fraction of space.

Boom!

With his right foot, Drogba unleashed a thunderous strike into the bottom corner.

1–0!

The Olímpico fell silent, save for the pocket of traveling Atlético fans who erupted in cheers.

On the touchline, Yang Hao pumped his fist in celebration.

"That's why I brought him on!"

Roma's Desperation

With time running out, Capello had no choice but to send on more attacking players. Montella and Batistuta were introduced, and Roma switched to an aggressive 4-2-4 formation.

But pushing forward only created more gaps for Atlético to exploit.

In the 88th minute, Xabi Alonso intercepted a loose pass and launched a pinpoint long ball to Reyes on the left. The winger sprinted down the flank, cut inside, and delivered a low cross to Drogba, who was waiting near the penalty spot.

Drogba didn't miss.

2–0!

Full-Time: Mission Accomplished

Atlético Madrid walked away with a hard-fought 2–0 victory, breaking down one of Europe's stingiest defenses.

Yang Hao's tactical adjustments and Drogba's game-changing performance ensured that Atlético started the second group stage on the right foot.

As the final whistle blew, Yang Hao couldn't resist a smirk.

"Capello, your 1–0 fetish won't work here."

Maicon's pass was a game-changer, and Drogba capitalized.

As the ball dropped into the penalty area, Drogba took a decisive step forward, using his strength to shield Zebina. Without jumping, he redirected the ball with a header back toward the edge of the box.

Suddenly, Kaká burst forward from deep, surging between Emerson and Lima like a freight train. He latched onto Drogba's knockdown and unleashed a thunderous shot.

The ball skimmed just over the crossbar, drawing gasps from the crowd at the Stadio Olimpico.

A moment later, the jeers and taunts against Drogba resumed, a harsh reminder of the ugly racism that often marred Italian stadiums.

"Drogba's physical dominance is incredible," the commentators marveled.

"He reminds me of Adriano, who was a force at Atlético last season and is now tearing up Serie A."

"Yang Hao clearly brought Drogba on to use his strength to break through Roma's stubborn defense."

Although Kaká's shot didn't find the net, the attacking sequence lifted Atlético's spirits. On the sidelines, Yang Hao clapped vigorously, encouraging his players:

"Well done! Keep it up!"

The Beast Awakens

Atlético Madrid maintained control of possession, while Roma continued to hunker down, unwilling to commit bodies forward—even in their own stadium.

Capello's ultra-conservative approach was designed to force Atlético into mistakes. However, Yang Hao's side was patient and relentless.

A quick interplay on the left flank saw Reyes deliver a dangerous pass into the box. Kaká's attempt to control the ball was met with immediate pressure from Emerson, who leaned into him to disrupt his balance.

Just as Kaká looked set to lose the ball, he managed a clever left-footed pass into the penalty area.

Inside the box, Drogba was already positioned with Zebina draped all over him, struggling to move the powerful Ivorian.

As the pass arrived, Drogba deftly trapped the ball, turned with surprising agility, and began to drive toward goal. Zebina lunged at him, but Drogba shrugged him off with a powerful shoulder barge and unleashed a fierce left-footed shot.

Goalkeeper Antonioli reacted quickly, diving to parry the ball away.

Capello's Alarms

The near-miss sent shockwaves through the Roma defense. Capello paced his technical area, gesturing furiously to his midfielders:

"Don't let the big guy get the ball!"

Yang Hao smirked. Although he didn't understand Italian, he could easily guess the meaning of Capello's frantic instructions.

"Feed Drogba!" Yang shouted to his team.

The plan was simple: channel every attack through Drogba, using him as a battering ram to wear down Roma's defenders.

A One-Man Wrecking Crew

The intensity of the match reached a fever pitch.

With Drogba occupying Roma's center-backs, Atlético's attacks gained momentum. The relentless pressure began to take its toll on Samuel and Zebina, who had spent over an hour battling against Torres' mobility and now faced Drogba's brute strength.

By the 70th minute, it was clear that Drogba was transforming the game. His physicality and presence were wreaking havoc in the penalty area, forcing Roma to retreat deeper and deeper.

Atlético unleashed a barrage of crosses, passes, and shots, testing Roma's resilience.

In the 80th minute, a chaotic sequence unfolded:

Kaká's shot was blocked.

Drogba retrieved the ball, but his follow-up attempt was also deflected.

Baraja pounced on the rebound, firing a long-range effort that was again repelled by the sea of red shirts.

The ball ricocheted to the left flank, where Evra picked it up.

Evra's Breakthrough

Spotting Cafu bearing down on him, Evra accelerated down the wing, leaving the 32-year-old Brazilian trailing in his wake.

Even with Lima closing in, Evra executed a brilliant burst of speed to carve out a sliver of space. Nearing the byline, he lifted his head and shouted in Spanish:

"Front post!"

The Decisive Moment

Drogba heard the call and pivoted away from Zebina.

Charging toward the near post, he collided with Samuel, who attempted to leap for the ball. But Samuel, caught off balance by Drogba's sheer momentum, stumbled forward helplessly.

"Drogba!!!"

The Ivorian rose majestically, his powerful frame defying the challenge. With every ounce of strength, he powered his header toward goal.

The ball smashed into the back of the net.

1–0!

For a moment, there was stunned silence. Then, the realization hit: Drogba had broken the deadlock.

Pandemonium at the Olimpico

Drogba's roar of triumph echoed around the stadium as he sprinted to the corner flag. Sliding on his knees, he opened his arms wide, as if embracing the entire world.

It was a perfect celebration, smooth and full of confidence.

Yang Hao couldn't contain himself. The coach dashed onto the pitch, laughing as he reached Drogba.

"You idiot! Where's the three-stripe celebration I asked for? It's only two stripes!"

The rest of the Atlético squad swarmed them, piling on in a euphoric group hug.

Victory Secured

Roma, forced to abandon their defensive shell, threw everything forward in the dying minutes. But Atlético's defense, marshaled by Lucio and Carvalho, held firm.

When the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 1–0 in favor of Atlético Madrid.

It wasn't just a win; it was a statement. Yang Hao's tactical masterstroke and Drogba's unstoppable performance had shattered Roma's defensive fortress.

In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao couldn't resist a parting shot:

"Capello's defense is impressive, but tonight, even a fortress couldn't stop the Beast."

END CHAPTER

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