The atmosphere in the locker room before the match was exceptionally tense. The players were silent, their faces etched with anxiety and nervousness.
Lin Feng sat in a corner, his eyes closed, breathing deeply, trying to calm the turmoil within him. He knew this match held significant meaning for both the team and his own future. He couldn't afford any slackness or mistakes.
His teammates were also immersed in their own worlds, silently preparing for the match. Some closed their eyes to rest, attempting to relax their minds and bodies; others meticulously checked their equipment, ensuring everything was ready.
A suffocating aura filled the air, as if even breathing became difficult. Every sound in the locker room seemed especially jarring; even someone accidentally bumping something and making a noise drew frowns and displeasure from others.
Head Coach Rivaldo walked into the locker room. Seeing the players' tension, he said nothing, merely surveying the room silently. His gaze lingered on Lin Feng for a moment, and he nodded slightly, seemingly in encouragement.
In such an atmosphere, time seemed to slow down. Lin Feng felt as if a long time had passed before he finally heard the referee's whistle calling them onto the field. He stood up, patted a teammate's shoulder, took a deep breath, and walked out of the locker room.
Lin Feng and his teammates strode onto the field with determined steps, greeted by the anticipation and cheers of countless spectators.
At this moment, Lin Feng's heart raced, but his mind was exceptionally calm. He knew this was his first start as a professional player, and a crucial step towards realizing his dream.
Just as they stepped onto the field, a system prompt sounded: "Congratulations on completing the achievement — Prove Yourself, earning 3 Growth Points."
Lin Feng's heart jolted, and he felt a surge of power course through his body. He felt stronger, more confident.
Standing on the defensive line, Lin Feng kept a close eye on the opposing players, ready to respond to any challenge. His gaze was firm and sharp, as if no opponent could escape his marking.
Meanwhile, his agent, Snyder, watching the match at home, also nervously stared at the TV screen.
Snyder's eyes closely followed Lin Feng's movements, his hands gripping the remote control tightly, knuckles slightly white. He leaned slightly forward, as if wanting to watch the match more closely.
Snyder's expression was tense and focused, tiny beads of sweat forming on his forehead. He felt a mix of emotions, hoping Lin Feng would perform well, but also worried he might make a mistake during the match.
Whenever Lin Feng faced an opponent's attack, Snyder's heart would race, and his palms would sweat. He constantly prayed that Lin Feng would overcome the challenge and showcase his strength.
Although Snyder was an experienced agent, he deeply understood the importance of this match for Lin Feng's career. This was not only Lin Feng's first start as a professional player but also a crucial step towards a higher level.
As the match progressed, Snyder's mood gradually relaxed. He saw Lin Feng display excellent defensive skills and calm judgment on the field. Every interception, every tackle, invigorated Snyder.
When Lin Feng successfully thwarted an opponent's attack, Snyder would involuntarily cheer; when Lin Feng participated in the team's offense, he would nervously hold his breath until he saw Lin Feng's successful pass or shot before exhaling.
In this thrilling match, Lin Feng's defensive performance was undoubtedly the most striking aspect. He stood like an unyielding fortress, guarding Villarreal's goal, showcasing extraordinary strength and skill.
Soon after kickoff, Lin Feng, with his keen observation, accurately anticipated the opponent's attacking intentions. He appeared swiftly in the crucial position like a leopard, intercepting the opponent's pass. In that instant, the entire stadium seemed to freeze, all eyes focused on him. Lin Feng's tackle was clean and decisive, his movements fluid, demonstrating professional and exquisite defensive artistry.
In the first half, Lin Feng's defensive performance was nothing short of perfect. With his excellent positioning and judgment, he successfully defused multiple dangerous attacks from the opponent. Whether in one-on-one defense or team pressing, Lin Feng consistently completed his tasks accurately, demonstrating a high level of professionalism and responsibility.
In one defensive play, Lin Feng engaged in an intense duel with Lugo's forward.
The opponent, with excellent technique and strength, broke through the defense and approached the goal.
Lin Feng showed no fear, using his speed and skill to stick close to his opponent.
At the last moment, he decisively stretched out his leg and kicked the ball out of the danger zone, thwarting the opponent's attack.
This action drew cheers and applause from the spectators, and Lin Feng was also satisfied with his performance.
In addition to his individual defensive ability, Lin Feng also demonstrated excellent team defensive awareness.
He cooperated seamlessly with his teammates, defending together to form a tight defensive line.
When facing an opponent's attack, he was always able to accurately judge the opponent's intentions and promptly communicate and coordinate with his teammates, successfully resolving crises.
Throughout the entire first half, Lin Feng's performance was impeccable. His defensive skills, judgment, and physical prowess all reached a very high level. His outstanding performance also played a significant role in the team maintaining a clean sheet.
During halftime, the team's players gathered in the locker room, and Head Coach Rivaldo summarized the first half. He specifically mentioned Lin Feng's performance and gave him high praise.
Rivaldo's demeanor was serious, but his eyes revealed a gleam of satisfaction. He scanned the players in the locker room, then walked to Lin Feng and patted his shoulder.
"Lin Feng, your performance in the first half was excellent," Rivaldo said approvingly. "Your defensive skills and judgment were spot on; you didn't give the opponent any chances."
Upon hearing the Head Coach's praise, Lin Feng showed a modest smile. He knew that while his performance was good, there was still much room for improvement.
"Thank you for the compliment, Coach," Lin Feng replied, "I will continue to work hard."
Rivaldo nodded and continued, "In the second half, you must maintain this state, and also pay attention to coordinating with your teammates. Only by having the entire defensive line work together can we better thwart the opponent's attacks."
Lin Feng nodded seriously, indicating he would give his all. He deeply understood the importance of this match for the team and his responsibility as a defensive player.
As time passed, the players gradually left the locker room and returned to the field to continue the match. Lin Feng checked his equipment in front of the mirror, took a deep breath, and then walked out of the locker room. He knew the second half would be even more intense, but he was ready.