First game
Time flew by, and soon it was time for the first match of the summer amateur youth competition.
Unlike their last game against Flevoland, this match was an away game at AS'80's youth training camp. The stadium was brightly lit, almost as bright as day, and the crowd stood orderly outside the perimeter fence, eagerly awaiting the start of the game.
AS'80 was filled with excitement because their opening match was against Almere. While Almere had a stronger first-team presence, AS'80 was reputed for its superior youth training program. Recently, Flevoland, fielding AS'80 youth players, had defeated Helen Parkhurst, who used Almere youth players, 2-1 away, further boosting AS'80's confidence.
Since it was an amateur match and they were playing at home, the AS'80 players arrived at the stadium in groups rather than all at once. Leading the way was Captain and midfielder Kuller, wearing the number 8 jersey, who arrived first to greet his teammates and initiate the warm-up.
The Almere players had agreed on a set time and departed from their training base, making their way to the AS'80 training ground. The distance between the two places was short, akin to a warm-up stroll.
Upon arrival at the stadium, Almere players were immediately greeted by the throng of fans who had come to watch the away game.
"Captain, look, the player I mentioned earlier is also here," AS'80's number 7 pointed toward the Almere contingent.
Kuller followed his teammate's gesture and easily spotted the dark-haired, yellow-skinned Chinese teenager among the Almere team. He left a strong impression, having nearly orchestrated a comeback in their previous encounter. With him on their side, the match was expected to pose a tougher challenge.
Turning back to his teammate, the left winger, Kuller noticed a hint of unease in his expression, a lingering shadow from their last game. Fear was something they couldn't afford before such a crucial match.
"Relax, this time we have several first-team players with us, our strength is greater than it was a month ago. There's no need to fear him," Kuller reassured, offering encouragement to his teammates.
As he spoke, cheers erupted from the fans along the sidelines, followed by a roar. It was announced that five AS'80 players were making their way onto the pitch.
The cheers from the fans were clearly directed at the first two players who emerged, evidently the stars of the team. Kuller and his teammates acknowledged their arrival with a unified greeting.
"Hey, Wesley, good to see you're here."
"Welcome, Kagri."
"Having you both on the field increases our chances of winning this match."
"Yes, let's dominate Almere on our home turf and secure a big win."
"We need to prove that we're the strongest team in Almere."
"This is our first encounter with Almere in the amateur league; we need to show what we're capable of."
"Well said."
Like all teams from the same city, Almere and AS'80 had always been rivals. In their early years, Almere competed in lower leagues, but their rapid growth saw them rise to the third division and eventually become Ajax's satellite club. This development stoked envy in AS'80, who remained mid-table in the Dutch fourth division.
Amidst the roaring crowd, Kuller discreetly pulled over left-back Marvin Doering, donning the number two shirt.
"Marvin, take a look at the lad with the black hair."
"Is that Henk Dimer?" Marvin Doering inquired.
As the top emerging talent in Almere's youth academy, Henk Dimer was well-known among the AS'80 ranks.
"No, Henk Dimer wears number ten. The one with black hair is Chinese. He was a substitute in Flevoland's last match against Helen Parkhurst and caused quite a stir with his relentless runs down the wing," Kuller explained.
"What's his name?" Marvin Doering asked, somewhat surprised.
"I don't know," Kuller replied.
AS'80, a fourth division team, lacked the resources to scout opponents thoroughly, not even for their youth team. Their knowledge of Almere's youth squad was limited to Henk Dimer and a few other prominent players.
"He's an unknown player? I doubt he'll pose any threat," scoffed Marvin Doering. In his eyes, the only concern in the Almere lineup was Henk Dimer.
Kuller wanted to caution his teammates about the new player's potential, but he also understood Marvin Doering's dismissive attitude. As AS'80's key left-back in the first team, Marvin was highly regarded for his defensive prowess and was expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming season. Such a player had little reason to worry about a newcomer who had only recently caught attention.
AS'80's confidence had swelled with the inclusion of several first-team players, but Almere were taken aback when they saw the fresh faces of the AS'80 newcomers.
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"My God, Wesley Snowy."
"And Kagri Assante."
"Why are they all here?"
"It seems AS'80 is putting great importance on this game, even fielding these two key players," remarked one teammate.
"Who are they?" Yang Yang asked, feeling bewildered amid the discussion.
His teammate Nick responded confidently, "These two are crucial players for AS'80's first team."
Henk Dimer frowned, adding his insight, "Wesley Snowy is an attacking midfielder, and Kagri Assante, the tall one, is a striker. They're both eighteen and have been part of the first team for two seasons now. Recently, they've earned their spots with outstanding performances."
Just from the introduction, Yang Yang sensed the apprehension in Henk Dimer's voice. These players were integral to a Dutch fourth division team, yet AS'80 was mobilizing them for an amateur youth match, underscoring the significance of this game.
"However, Yang Yang, the player you should watch out for most is Marvin Doering, number 2," Nick continued. "He's a left-back known for his robust defense. Rumor has it, he's set to be a key player in AS'80's first team next season."
Henk Dimer also frowned at the mention of Marvin, knowing he wasn't just any left-back like the one from Flevoland a month ago. Could Yang Yang still make an impact on the right flank?
But when Yang Yang heard this, he let out a faint whistle—not out of fear, but excitement. In the Dream training system, his training partners had already moved up from the Dutch fourth division to the third division, yet he had never faced a real fourth division player in a match. This game presented a perfect opportunity to test himself.
Henk Dimer felt a twinge of worry, but seeing Yang Yang's enthusiasm, he couldn't help but feel a hint of shame for his own apprehension. With several first-team players joining their ranks, AS'80's strength had undeniably increased. While Almere also had a first-team player lending support, these were individuals who had seen little playtime during the season, making their collective strength incomparable.
More pressing, however, was their game plan. What tactics should they employ? What formations would be most effective? Who should play as forwards, wingers, midfielders, defenders, and goalkeepers? Would they opt for a lone striker or two up top?
As several AS'80 first-team players appeared, Henk Dimer gathered his teammates with a sense of unease. He was uncertain about their strategy—whether they would simply replicate the youth team's formation and tactics.
"If you don't have any good ideas..." Yang Yang noticed his teammates' hesitance and spoke up. "It might be best to give me the ball."
"Give you the ball? Can you handle that? Lead the attack?" Dimer asked cautiously.
"As long as their number 7 doesn't track back, Nick focuses on defense, and I handle the left-back, we'll stick to our usual plan: I'll create opportunities from the right, and our striker will wait in the box. Henk, you pounce when the moment is right," Yang Yang explained confidently.
This strategy had been effective in their last four games because no one could effectively defend against Yang Yang's penetrating runs that disrupted entire defenses.
"What about Marvin Doering? Are you sure you can handle him?" Henk Dimer asked, still worried.
Yang Yang nodded assuredly. "How will we know if we don't try? If it doesn't work, we'll fall back on defense and play defensively until the end."
With no better ideas, the team agreed to follow Yang Yang's plan.
Yang Yang currently led the Almere youth team as the best player in the team and had been the standout player in their last four games. If even he couldn't break through, Almere stood little chance of winning this match.
With the decision made, everyone began to select their jerseys. As the team's primary attacker, there was no objection to Yang Yang choosing the number 9.
Originally designated for a striker, Yang Yang played on the right wing. Inspired by idols like Ronaldo and Van Basten, who both wore the number nine shirt, he felt compelled to choose it when the opportunity arose.
Amidst the cheers of the fans, the referee signaled for the two teams to take the field. Despite being an amateur competition, the proceedings mirrored those of a professional game. After the sides were decided, both teams lined up separately.
Almere won the right to kick off, but Yang Yang stood poised on the right side of the center circle, eyeing AS'80's number seven on the opposite flank.
The AS'80 player was taken aback to see Yang Yang in that position but secretly relieved he wouldn't have to contend with him directly.
"It seems Almere doesn't have anyone capable of playing on the wing or even at right-back. Do you know who's covering for me?" The AS'80 winger smirked, pleased at the perceived advantage over Yang Yang.
Yang Yang met his gaze without responding.
"It's Marvin Doering, our first team's star left-back. You're in trouble," the opposing winger taunted confidently. He believed Yang Yang would struggle to make an impact.
Unexpectedly, Yang Yang glanced at him dismissively. "Do you have a problem if you stop talking?" The retort caught the winger off guard; he had heard similar confidence from Yang Yang during their encounters last month when Yang Yang played as a right-back.
"You can try to break through, but I assure you, it won't happen. Let's see how long it takes for you to figure that out," the AS'80 winger shot back.
Just then, the referee blew the whistle, signaling the start of the game.
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Watching from the touchline, Johnny Rep frowned. "This won't be an easy match."
"AS'80 seems determined this time with players like Wesley Snowy, Kagri Assante, and Marvin Doering in the lineup. They're using this summer amateur game to boost team morale," analyzed Dick Vanpoer.
Since Almere's promotion to the third division, their first team had stabilized, unlike AS'80 whose first team's players still lagged behind. Almere's success relied heavily on players loaned from Ajax.
Last season, despite a strong performance, Almere narrowly missed promotion to the Eerste Divisie. In just seven years, they had become a prominent name in Dutch football. As rivals in the same city, AS'80 felt the pressure to match their achievements.
Unable to compete with Almere in league standings, AS'80 aimed to reclaim city pride through other means, viewing the amateur competition as the perfect platform. With three key first-team players participating, they were confident of at least defeating Almere and asserting their dominance.
The amateur competition operated on a single-round elimination format. If Almere were eliminated in the first game, it would not only deprive players of valuable match experience but also dent team morale significantly.
But Johnny Rep and Dick Vanpoer could only watch from the sidelines. Ultimately, the outcome lay in the hands of the players, with the coach limited to providing guidance.
Observing Yang Yang rallying his teammates on the sidelines, both Johnny Rep and Dick Vanpoer were intrigued.
"They seem to be rallying under his command," Dick Vanpoer remarked, noting the change in team morale, even as Henk Dimer wore a serious expression. "Yang Yang appears confident, taking charge like this—it's surprising."
"He may not fully grasp the strength of his opponents," Johnny Rep commented wryly.
"That might actually work in his favor," Johnny Rep added optimistically. "Ignorance can sometimes breed fearlessness."
Little did they know, even if Yang Yang understood his opponents' strength, it would only fuel his excitement to test himself. Having impressed in the past four games, Yang Yang saw this match against a fourth division defender as a valuable opportunity to gauge his abilities.
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After the referee's whistle, Almere, who had the kickoff, immediately played the ball back to their defense.
Yang Yang initiated his run from the right flank directly towards the opposition's left-back, Marvin Doering.
The Almere defender didn't take Yang Yang seriously because in his first-team experience he faced fourth division wingers, unlike the inexperienced rookie in front of him. Thus, he approached Yang Yang with a relaxed demeanor, confident he could easily outmuscle the slender forward with a shoulder challenge.
The ball was swiftly returned to midfield where Henk Dimer assumed control. Yang Yang exploited the space and moved into position to receive the pass.
Despite undergoing nearly two months of specialized training, Yang Yang's fundamental skills, particularly his first touch, still needed refinement. Henk Dimer's pass arrived hurriedly, causing Yang Yang to mishandle it and allowing Marvin Doering to close the gap. Fortunately, Yang Yang quickly shielded the ball and played it back to his defensive line.
Seeing Yang Yang immediately retreat and return possession, Marvin Doering thought his opponent was ineffective. He noticed Yang Yang exhale in relief, having retained possession despite the poor touch. Yang Yang raised his hand apologetically to Henk Dimer, acknowledging his mistake that had squandered a potential attacking opportunity.
Almere players were familiar with Yang Yang's limitations in basic skills but recognized his threat once he controlled the ball. They remained undeterred.
Shortly after the reorganization, the ball was again dispatched into midfield.
This time, Yang Yang sprinted from the right towards the center, intercepting a pass from his teammate and deftly controlling it at his feet.
With no immediate pressure, Yang Yang calmly turned with the ball before accelerating forward like a cheetah.
Marvin Doering, still a player in the Dutch fourth division, didn't initially take Yang Yang seriously. Nevertheless, he respected the tactical instructions and quickly positioned himself to block Yang Yang's advance.
One-on-one!
Is this lad really trying to get past me? Marvin Doering eyed Yang Yang as he approached with the ball, a sneer curling his lips. Doesn't he know I've always been renowned for my defensive prowess? His pace is impressive, but if he thinks he can simply use his speed to break through as he did in the youth team, he's in for a rude awakening.
Facing Yang Yang, Doering carefully monitored his dribbling rhythm and speed, his body retreating strategically. As soon as Yang Yang entered his defensive zone, Doering moved to disrupt his flow.
Yang Yang felt the interference and abruptly pushed the ball outward, feigning movement in that direction. Doering reacted instinctively, lunging to intercept the ball and asserting his dominance as a fourth division defender.
But just as Doering committed, the figure before him flickered. Instead of continuing outward, Yang Yang executed a deft step-over with his right foot, then sharply veered inward, leaving Doering floundering.
What just happened? Doering thought, bewildered.
Yang Yang, having deftly bypassed Doering with a step-over, accelerated inward with a burst of speed that left Marvin Doering trailing behind. The stadium erupted in a roar. No one had anticipated Marvin Doering being so easily outmaneuvered by Yang Yang on their first encounter.
By the time Doering turned around, Yang Yang had already reached the right side of the penalty area. He came to an abrupt stop, then accelerated once more, sending the defensive midfielder sprawling. Now on the left flank of AS'80, he crossed the ball into the box with precision.
At that moment, the Almere striker, poised like a fox in the penalty area, shook off his marker and met the cross with an outstretched right foot, driving the ball into the net to score Almere's first goal of the match.
Gooooooooooooooal!!!!
"Yay!!!!" Almere's No. 11 striker, exhilarated, sprinted towards Yang Yang and embraced him. Their teammates quickly joined, celebrating with Yang Yang.
"Haha, you guys are great!"
"He captivated everyone with his breakthrough at the start of the game."
"He's too fast, too brilliant!"
"I think I'm falling in love with you, Yang Yang!"
All the team members were cheering and celebrating, and Yang Yang was laughing along with them. Who would have thought that Almere could breach AS'80's defensive line in less than three minutes into the match?
Marvin Doering stared blankly at the jubilant Almere players, particularly Yang Yang at the center of the celebration, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration. Kuller noticed his teammate's expression and understood his plight. He had warned Marvin Doering about Yang Yang's capabilities, but it was clear the advice had gone unheeded.
Yang Yang's specialties are his step-overs and body feints, both notoriously difficult to defend against.
"Don't worry, it's just one goal down; we'll get it back soon," Kuller consoled. It was all he could say at that moment.
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Johnny Rep and Dick Vanpoer were also laughing and cheering on the touchline as Almere took the lead. Neither had expected their team to score the first goal.
"That boy has improved again," Johnny Rep noted, his sharp eyes catching the subtleties of Yang Yang's performance at a glance.
"Yeah, judging by that breakthrough, he looked incredibly composed and effortless," Dick Vanpoer agreed, equally astonished. Although the goal was somewhat unexpected, it clearly demonstrated Yang Yang's strength.
It's been only half a month since the last match, yet he has improved again.
"His progress is so rapid that we need to act quickly," Johnny Rep said, the urgency in his voice unmistakable. The preparation he referred to was signing a contract with Yang Yang, ensuring he remained with the team.
Dick Vanpoer concurred. The loss of first-team players this season had been significant, making it imperative to retain talents like Yang Yang to bolster the squad. However, it was also evident that at the current rate of Yang Yang's development, Almere might not be able to keep him for long. Sooner or later, he would outgrow the team.
"With this goal, I think the players will have more fighting spirit," Johnny Rep affirmed confidently.
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Conceding the first goal sent the AS'80 players into a tailspin. Seizing the momentum from the kick-off, they launched a relentless assault on Almere, leveraging their superior strength to pin Almere down on the pitch.
In the nineteenth minute, AS'80, who had the upper hand, finally found the back of Almere's net. Kagri Assante, assisted by Wesley Snowy, received the ball in the penalty area, used his body to outmuscle the defender, and slotted home from close range to make it 1-1. Despite Almere's resilience, they eventually conceded a goal.
After equalizing, AS'80 quickly reorganized their attack. In the thirty-first minute, Wesley Snowy received a precise assist from the left winger near the penalty spot and fired another shot into Almere's goal. The score was now 2-1, with AS'80 successfully overturning Almere's lead.
From leading to trailing, Almere's overall strength paled in comparison to their opponents, forcing them into a defensive stance. Yang Yang remained vigilant on the right, frequently dropping back to aid in defense. However, he struggled to find the same one-on-one opportunities that had been so effective at the start of the match, making it challenging to threaten AS'80's goal.
In the 43rd minute, just before the first half ended, Almere managed to pass the ball back to Yang Yang. Receiving the ball but failing to control it perfectly, he turned away from the attacking direction and passed it to Henk Dimer in midfield before sprinting forward, hoping Dimer would anticipate his intent.
This time, Henk Dimer read Yang Yang's move perfectly. After receiving the ball, he swiftly passed it back into Yang Yang's path, capitalizing on Yang Yang's speed advantage.
As Yang Yang caught up with the ball, he once again found himself facing Marvin Doering one-on-one. It was another high-stakes duel.