Kick-off

Sonia couldn't fall asleep that night. Not because she drank coffee or due to anxiousness because of the new day of the school year in tomorrow. But because of what she was watching on television at the moment. Supporters banners spread all across the stadium, with each team supporters cheers roared all over it. It was the final match of Asian cup between Japan and Indonesia with the winner will be crowned as champion and had the rights to be called 'Asia Strongest' before marching towards the World Cup.

Sonia wasn't interested at first and watched because her mom turned on the television because of the quiet atmosphere. In the end, her mom called for an early night before telling Sonia to sleep. Eventually, she decided to watch it in her room sneakily.

On the field, Indonesia had the chance to score the winning goal with a penalty. Time was already up, and only injury time remained. A goal meant trophy and gold medal, fail meant extra time. Indonesia was choosing their kicker for this deciding moment. After the referee told them to hurry up, Indonesia's number 27, Arianto stepped up.

Supporters chanted his name, 'The Ace'. His face was full of dirt, sweat, and rainwaters for over the whole game. He put the ball on the white spot and prepared his stance. The crowds quieted for a bit, catching their breath. Every other player were concentrating, prepare to snatch the ball if missed.

Sonia clasped her hands together while closing her eyes. Nervous, but still wanted to give her support. She muttered every prayer she could until the whistle was blown.

And then...

"GOOOOOOOOOOOAAALL!!!" Indonesia fans gone bananas, jumping, screaming in joy and jubilation. His teammates went over Arianto and celebrated with him. He ran over to the side field and thanked the fans. Short after, the final whistle was blown and Indonesia became the champion. It continued until the award ceremony.

Sonia no longer focused on the television. Her eyes sparkled. Her mouth agape, astonished by what she had seen for over 90 minutes. All this time, she always searched for something that she liked to do. She got bored easily and had many interests in other things, though she could learn them quickly.

"Fight until the end. Together with everyone. Sonia wants to be like that!" She clenched her tiny fist until she could no longer contain herself from shouting her feelings.

"I... want to play football!"

Since that day, Sonia practiced playing football. Playing with boys, joining a junior football team, until she became a national champion in children level. Unfortunately, an incident put her dreams to become the best player on halt, but her spirit was not broken. 'The road to becoming number one is not just one'. She always kept that in her heart.

"I will continue playing. As long as my dream hasn't been reached, I will not quit!"