Chapter 34: "Relentless Pursuit of Greatness"
The second half began after the end of the first.
Although Yoo Ji-woo consistently created opportunities through shooting and passing, he couldn't secure any more goal points.
Whistle—!
For the sake of managing his stamina, Ji-woo was substituted in the 64th minute.
> [Boca Juniors makes a substitution! Yoo Ji-woo is replaced by Renato Gonzalez!]
[It seems this is to conserve his energy.]
[What a performance it was. A goal and an assist on his debut… Isn't this more impactful than the debuts of Javier or Angel?]
Both players had debuted as substitutes in the second half without registering any decisive stats.
One Goal, One Assist
This made Ji-woo's debut record a definite topic of excitement among Boca Juniors fans.
"A fantastic debut match."
Javier Casero held out his hand, and Ji-woo exchanged a light high-five with him before heading off the field.
Clap, clap, clap, clap!
The crowd gradually rose to their feet, applauding the rookie who had delivered an incredible debut performance.
> [The crowd gives a standing ovation for Yoo Ji-woo, who showcased exceptional skills today!]
[How many rookies have received this kind of ovation on their debut?]
Ji-woo clapped back in appreciation and was substituted by Renato.
"Good work," said Sebastian Lancellotta in his typically stoic tone.
Ji-woo bowed his head. "Thank you."
Thus, Ji-woo's debut ended, leaving a powerful impression on many.
---
Post-Match Interview
After the game, Ji-woo was swarmed by reporters during the post-match interview session.
"It was your debut match at just sixteen years old. Did you feel any pressure?"
"I was under pressure, but I focused on showing my style of play."
"You've yet to sign a formal pro contract. Do you think this performance will lead to a contract?"
"I hope so, but that's the club's decision. I can't really comment on it."
He answered several more questions before the last question was posed.
A club representative pointed to one particular reporter, who then asked the final question.
"What are your aspirations moving forward?"
Numerous thoughts swirled in Ji-woo's mind.
> "I'll give my best."
"I'll achieve a lot at Boca Juniors."
These options felt too conventional, lacking impact.
Suddenly, a single sentence struck him, and, looking straight into the cameras, he declared:
"I will become the best player in the world."
---
The room fell silent momentarily, with many likely dismissing it as the overconfidence of a young player.
But Ji-woo had a dream journal where he'd written his goals since the day he decided to become a footballer.
1. Learn to play football.
2. Become a starter at a renowned school team.
3. Join a professional club.
4. Make the top 20-player roster.
5. Secure a starting spot.
6. Be selected for the Best XI.
7. Represent the national team.
8. Become a national team starter.
9. Compete in the World Cup.
10. Win the World Cup.
11. Become a starter at a prestigious European club.
12. Win the UEFA Champions League.
And now, Ji-woo had added one more goal:
> Become the best player in the world.
This became his ultimate target, freshly inscribed in his journal.
---
After the press conference, Ji-woo's family awaited him in the hallway.
"You're here!"
His family wasn't alone—Yoo Min-ha's friends had also come to cheer for him.
"Father, Mother."
Ji-woo handed them the jersey he wore during the game.
"It got a bit dirty from all the falls, but I wanted you two to have my debut jersey."
Seo Seol-hee, his mother, accepted the jersey with tears streaming down her face, while Yoo Han-woo, his father, hugged Ji-woo tightly.
"I'm so proud of you."
"Dad."
"Yes? What is it?"
"I want to eat galbi-jjim (braised short ribs)."
"Alright! Let's cook galbi-jjim and throw a neighborhood party!"
---
Back at home, Ji-woo fell asleep in the car, exhausted.
Seol-hee gently stroked his face, smiling contentedly.
"Finally, he's relaxed."
His father, Han-woo, remarked, "He's earned this. Today's performance reflects all his hard work."
Despite having concerns about Ji-woo overtraining, Han-woo chose not to interfere. After seeing his son regain his lost smile through football, he couldn't bring himself to stop him.
Seol-hee noticed the small scars on Ji-woo's arms and legs—wounds earned from countless falls and struggles on the pitch.
---
> "The Little Prince of Boca Shines Bright: 1 Goal, 1 Assist!"
"Sebastian Lancellotta: 'Yu is an extraordinary talent who delivered on his promise.'"
"Boca's Little Prince Declares: 'My goal is to become the best player in the world.'"
---
The next morning, Ji-woo's family sat down for a massive breakfast prepared by Seol-hee.
"Mom, this is amazing! Thank you!"
With every bite of galbi-jjim, Ji-woo's happiness was palpable. His sisters teased him, asking for autographs.
Ji-woo went upstairs and returned with signed jerseys.
"Here's a gift for you."
"Wow! Thank you, Ji-woo!"
---
A few days later, Seol-hee, Yoo Min-ha, and Ji-woo's sisters returned to Korea.
Ji-woo remained in Argentina, fully focused on the league.
League Match 4: CA Tucumán
In the electrifying atmosphere of La Bombonera, Ji-woo scored a stunning goal in the 85th minute, once again proving his worth.
Kissing the Boca Juniors crest during his celebration, the crowd roared:
> "Yu! Yu! Yu! Yu! Yu!"
Ji-woo's name reverberated across the stadium, cementing his place as a rising star.