Golden Boy Award

On the second day following Ajax's return from Turin, the Netherlands saw its first snowfall of the winter. As snowflakes blanketed Amsterdam, many in the media and among the fanbase feared that this cold front could symbolically mark the beginning of a harsh winter for Ajax's season. 

Three days after the snowstorm, Ajax faced RBC Roosendaal at home in the 14th round of the Eredivisie. It was a game Ajax couldn't afford to take lightly, especially given the unpredictable nature of their opponent. 

Roosendaal's primary objective this season was survival, fighting to avoid relegation. Their head coach, Jan van Dijk, was a notable figure in Dutch football. A former midfield general for FC Groningen during the 1980s and 1990s, Van Dijk had been a key figure in some of the most successful periods in Groningen's history. Known for his tactical acumen and strong leadership, Van Dijk had carried his experiences into coaching. 

True to his Dutch roots, Van Dijk implemented a brand of football that was centered around offense and open play, even if it meant leaving the defense vulnerable at times. His Roosendaal team was often unpredictable—capable of pushing some of the league's biggest clubs to the brink, but also prone to heavy defeats. 

They had already lost 5-2 to PSV Eindhoven and 4-0 to Feyenoord earlier in the season, but they had also pulled off impressive victories, including a 4-1 thrashing of Vitesse and a 3-0 win over De Graafschap. Van Dijk's philosophy made Roosendaal a dangerous team, particularly on their good days. 

However, inconsistency remained their Achilles' heel. Roosendaal had suffered heavy defeats as well, such as a 5-1 loss to Utrecht and a 3-0 setback against Willem II. Yet, they had shown flashes of resilience, such as a thrilling 3-2 victory over NEC Nijmegen. Through 13 rounds of the season, Roosendaal had managed only one draw—a home stalemate against Groningen. 

Remarkably, Roosendaal had scored in all but one of their games this season, their lone goalless match being a narrow 1-0 loss to Twente. Their attacking approach had seen them score more than two goals in most matches, and they had even found the back of the net four times or more in seven games. 

In short, Roosendaal was a team that embodied the classic Dutch football style—bold, aggressive, and always looking to score, but vulnerable at the back. 

Ajax, aware of Roosendaal's unpredictable nature, fielded their strongest offensive lineup for the match, determined to avoid any surprises. 

Maarten Stekelenburg started in goal, while the defense featured Maxwell on the left, Thomas Vermaelen and Johnny Heitinga as the center-backs, and Maicon on the right. In midfield, Nigel de Jong provided the defensive cover, with Steven Pienaar and Wesley Sneijder controlling the creative play in the center. Up front, the attacking trident consisted of Wesley Sonck on the left, Charisteas through the middle, and Yang Yang on the right wing. 

As the match kicked off, it quickly became clear that the wet and slippery conditions from the snow and rain had affected the pitch. The ball skidded across the surface, and players found it difficult to maintain their footing at times. But despite the challenging conditions, the pace of the game was rapid from the very beginning. 

Ajax, determined to impose themselves early, moved the ball with intent, seeking to exploit Roosendaal's defensive frailties. Yang Yang, full of energy despite the grueling defeat in Turin, immediately looked to stretch the defense, cutting inside from the right and linking up with Sneijder and Pienaar in midfield. Meanwhile, Sonck and Charisteas took up advanced positions, ready to pounce on any openings created by Ajax's intricate passing moves. 

Roosendaal, true to their character, didn't sit back either. Even as Ajax pressed, they looked to hit back on the counter, sending long balls forward at every opportunity to test Ajax's backline. 

The game quickly shifted into high gear, with both teams pressing hard and looking to take control in the early stages. The snow had left the pitch slick, and every pass seemed to have just a bit too much pace. But despite the challenging conditions, the match promised to be a high-scoring affair, with neither team showing signs of slowing down. 

... 

... 

Yang Yang couldn't shake the disappointment from the match in Turin. Even though the media praised his effort, particularly the early cross to Wesley Sonck that nearly opened the scoring, he felt it wasn't enough. If Sonck had converted that chance, perhaps the entire game would have turned out differently. But in the end, Juventus had won, and the loss still weighed heavily on him. 

He couldn't let it go. The frustration simmered inside, like a fire he couldn't extinguish. Yang Yang needed a way to release that pent-up energy, to channel it into something positive. 

As the match against RBC Roosendaal kicked off, it was clear to everyone watching—his teammates, the coaching staff, the fans in the stands, and even the viewers at home—that Yang Yang was determined to make amends. He came out with explosive energy, running tirelessly, positioning himself aggressively, and constantly moving off the ball to create opportunities. His movement wasn't confined to the right wing either; he often drifted into the middle, seeking any avenue to make an impact. 

Yang Yang needed this victory. He needed to wash away the shame of the defeat in Turin. 

In the opening ten minutes, Yang Yang was already making his presence felt. Twice, he created dangerous situations for Ajax. The first came when he sent a precise pass to Wesley Sonck, but the Belgian striker failed to capitalize on the opportunity. The second came when Yang Yang cut inside and found Wesley Sneijder, whose long-range effort sent a shiver through Roosendaal's defense, forcing the goalkeeper into a full-stretch save. 

But it was in the thirteenth minute when Yang Yang truly left his mark. Cutting in from the right, Yang Yang drove toward the penalty area, drawing two defenders toward him. Spotting Maicon advancing on the right flank, Yang Yang slipped the ball out wide. Maicon charged forward, reaching the byline, but finding no room to deliver a cross into the box, he quickly cut the ball back to Yang Yang at the edge of the area. 

Without hesitation, Yang Yang darted toward the right side of the penalty box, using his speed and the slippery surface to his advantage. He weaved through two defenders with quick touches, then, just as he was approaching the byline, sent a high, looping cross into the box. The ball hung in the air for a moment before Charisteas rose above the defense, powering a close-range header past the goalkeeper. 

1-0! 

The Greek striker celebrated with unrestrained joy, pumping his fists as the Ajax fans in the stands erupted into cheers. The early goal, scored in the thirteenth minute, gave Ajax a lead and set the tone for what many thought would be another dominant victory. 

But football is rarely so predictable. Just nine minutes later, Roosendaal caught Ajax off guard with a sharp counterattack. Edwin de Graaf made a darting run from the right, cutting inside at an angle that exposed the Ajax defense. He slipped past the defensive line and found himself one-on-one with Stekelenburg. With composure, de Graaf slotted the ball past the Ajax goalkeeper, leveling the score. 

1-1. 

The sudden equalizer left Ajax stunned. The crowd, which had been jubilant moments before, was now in a state of shock. Maxwell, who had been tasked with defending that flank, was especially affected. It was the second match in a row where an opponent had exploited the left side of Ajax's defense. Against Juventus, it had been Camoranesi who had surged down that same channel to set up the winning goal. Now, de Graaf had done the same, with devastating effect. 

Maxwell was visibly distraught. The Brazilian defender, normally a calm and confident presence on the field, now looked shaken. He put his hands over his face, struggling to come to terms with the mistake. 

Yang Yang, who had shifted to the left side after the goal, noticed Maxwell's distress and quickly jogged over to him. 

"Don't let it get to you, Maxwell," Yang Yang said firmly, placing a hand on his teammate's shoulder. "You need to believe in yourself." 

Maxwell shook his head, his long hair damp with sweat, frustration evident in his eyes. "No, I've been awful lately. It's the same mistake again. I keep letting them through," he muttered, his voice filled with self-doubt. 

Yang Yang leaned in closer, gripping Maxwell's shoulders and looking him straight in the eyes. "Listen to me, you're not terrible. We all make mistakes, but we need to keep pushing forward. Trust me—trust yourself. You can do this." 

Other teammates, including Pienaar and Heitinga, gathered around, offering their support. Maxwell was well-liked in the locker room, a player who had earned the respect of everyone with his friendly demeanor and professionalism. Seeing him so downcast was difficult for the entire team. 

Yang Yang understood Maxwell's inner turmoil. After the loss to Juventus, he had also struggled with self-doubt, questioning whether he was truly ready to lead this team. But after a grueling session in the Dream Training System and Zax's advice, he had come to realize something crucial: self-doubt only wasted time and energy. Improvement came from action, not from dwelling on past mistakes. 

"They scored, fine," Yang Yang said, raising his voice just enough for his teammates to hear. "So now, we score again. We win this." 

Maxwell looked at Yang Yang for a long moment, then nodded, his confidence slowly returning. 

Yang Yang gave him a final pat on the back and returned to his position on the field, already focused on the next opportunity. The scoreline may have been level, but in his mind, the game was far from over. This was Maxwell's chance at redemption, and Yang Yang knew that the best way to make up for past mistakes was to push forward and fight for victory. 

For Yang Yang, the goal was clear: Ajax had to find a way to win, no matter the obstacles. And he was ready to lead them there. 

... 

... 

By the 33rd minute, the tempo of the game had shifted again. Yang Yang, finding fewer opportunities on the right flank, drifted toward the left as the play evolved. Ajax was probing Roosendaal's defense, searching for a breakthrough to regain their lead. 

The ball was played long from the back, switching to the left where Maxwell was stationed. The Brazilian left-back, still determined to redeem himself after the earlier mistake, controlled the ball effortlessly. With a quick shimmy, he shook off his marker, creating space to move forward. Looking up, he saw Pienaar making a run ahead of him and wasted no time in feeding the South African midfielder. 

Pienaar, always composed on the ball, drove forward with intent, pushing Roosendaal's defenders onto the back foot. Maxwell, refusing to rest, sprinted down the left flank, continuing his overlapping run. Pienaar, seeing Maxwell surge into space, returned the ball just outside the penalty area. 

Without hesitating, Maxwell took the shot with his left foot, striking the ball cleanly and powerfully. It flew through the air with precision, bypassing Roosendaal's goalkeeper and smashing into the back of the net. 

2-1! 

The stadium erupted in a roar as the ball hit the net. Maxwell, overwhelmed with emotion, sprinted out of the penalty box in celebration. He jumped over the advertising boards in a frenzy, rushing straight toward the Ajax supporters. With fists clenched and eyes alight with excitement, he celebrated wildly in front of the cheering fans, as though all the frustration from his earlier mistake had been washed away by this one perfect moment. 

Yang Yang, along with Sneijder, Pienaar, and several other teammates, quickly joined him, wrapping him in jubilant embraces as the Ajax supporters in the stands sang Maxwell's name. The energy was electric, the relief palpable. 

"Thank you!" Maxwell shouted over the noise, grabbing Yang Yang by the shoulders in a heartfelt gesture, his face flushed with excitement and gratitude. 

Yang Yang grinned, his wide smile revealing his brilliant white teeth as he laughed. "Well then, repay the favor and give me an assist!" he teased, still caught up in the euphoria of the goal. 

... 

With a 2-1 lead going into halftime, Ronald Koeman was far from satisfied. He raised several concerns about the team's performance, especially on the defensive end. Ajax had been vulnerable to counterattacks, and it was troubling to see the same flaw exploited in back-to-back matches. The left side had once again been exposed, leading directly to a goal. 

Koeman knew, however, that it wouldn't be fair to place all the blame on Maxwell. The Brazilian left-back was known more for his attacking prowess than his defensive solidity. Ajax valued him for his offensive contributions, but his defensive vulnerabilities were a recurring issue, as they often are for attack-minded full-backs. Balancing his attacking instincts with defensive duties was a constant challenge. 

As the teams switched sides for the second half, Ajax came out with renewed purpose. Yang Yang immediately looked dangerous on the right, initiating a quick offensive move that earned Ajax a corner in the 51st minute. Wesley Sneijder stepped up to take the corner, delivering a precise ball into the box. Thomas Vermaelen, rising above the Roosendaal defense, met the cross with a powerful header, sending the ball into the back of the net. 

3-1! 

The Belgian center-back's ability to score from set pieces was becoming his trademark, adding an extra dimension to Ajax's attack while solidifying his role in the defense. Vermaelen's dominance in the air had given Ajax a comfortable two-goal cushion, and it seemed as though the game was firmly in their grasp. 

Despite the commanding lead, Yang Yang showed no signs of easing off. He still hadn't found the back of the net, and his hunger for a goal was palpable. The memory of being tightly marked and shut down by Zambrotta, Tacchinardi, and Nedved during the Juventus match lingered in his mind. The experience had been suffocating, and Yang Yang felt a burning need to move past it. 

He knew he wasn't yet at the level to consistently break free from elite defenders like those at Juventus, but he needed to rebuild his confidence quickly. Scoring a goal would be the perfect way to do that. 

Like Maxwell's goal earlier in the match, which had restored his confidence after a defensive lapse, Yang Yang needed his own moment of redemption. He needed to feel that sense of release—a goal that could erase the frustrations from the previous game. 

Both Ronald Koeman and Ruud Krol were aware of Yang Yang's internal struggle. With no Champions League fixtures this week and a full week of rest ahead, they decided to leave Yang Yang on the pitch. He needed this goal, and they wanted to give him the chance to find it. 

In the 65th minute, Koeman made his first change, bringing on Yannis Anastasiou to replace Charisteas. Seven minutes later, Nicolae Mitea came on for Wesley Sonck, both substitutions aimed at keeping Ajax's attacking momentum. 

Both coaches hoped that Yang Yang could find the goal he so desperately craved. On the pitch, Yang Yang continued to work tirelessly, probing Roosendaal's defense and relentlessly seeking out opportunities. 

What set Yang Yang apart from players like Ibrahimović and Van der Vaart was his ability to stay calm under pressure. While the latter two could sometimes become overly emotional when things weren't going their way—taking shots in desperation even when the chances weren't ideal—Yang Yang remained composed. He was anxious, but his approach was methodical. 

His personal mantra was clear: Never take a shot you're not confident in. 

This mindset had made him an efficient shooter. He wasn't one to waste opportunities with speculative shots. Instead, he waited for the right moment, the perfect chance. 

As the game wore on, Ajax continued to press forward, creating chances and retaining possession. Sneijder, Pienaar, Maxwell, and Maicon all tried to set Yang Yang up, but Roosendaal's defense had clearly singled him out, marking him closely. 

But in the 83rd minute, Roosendaal's defense finally cracked. 

Yang Yang, ever alert, sensed the moment and made a clever switch to the left flank. After receiving a sharp pass from Pienaar, he quickly laid the ball off to Maxwell, who had made a diagonal run to the edge of the penalty area. Maxwell drove the ball forward, drawing in the Roosendaal defenders before cutting it back to Yang Yang, now positioned just outside the box. 

Yang Yang controlled the ball expertly, his instincts kicking in as he darted toward the center of the field. With the defense scrambling to close him down, Yang Yang cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot with his right foot. 

The ball soared through the air, curling just inside the far post, brushing past the outstretched fingers of the goalkeeper. It kissed the inside of the right post before settling into the back of the net. 

4-1! 

Yang Yang had finally done it. 

The roar from the crowd was deafening as his teammates rushed to him in celebration. Yang Yang, normally composed, allowed himself a moment of pure joy, raising his arms and letting out a yell of triumph. It wasn't just about the goal—it was about overcoming the frustration and doubt that had weighed on him since the defeat to Juventus. 

Maxwell was the first to reach him, a grin spread across his face. "There's your assist!" he laughed, pulling Yang Yang into a hug. 

Yang Yang smiled back, the weight of the past few days lifting off his shoulders. He had his goal, and with it, he had reclaimed his confidence. 

... 

... 

Ajax secured a convincing 4-1 victory over RBC Roosendaal at home, continuing their impressive run of form in the Eredivisie. Meanwhile, their rivals Feyenoord were held to a 2-2 draw away against Heerenveen, and PSV Eindhoven maintained their lead at the top of the table with a 2-0 win at home against FC Twente. Alkmaar also secured an important 2-1 victory away at FC Groningen, keeping the pressure on the league leaders. 

As the dust settled on the 14th round of Eredivisie action, the top four teams in the standings remained unchanged. PSV Eindhoven still led the league with 35 points, while AZ Alkmaar followed closely behind with 33 points. Feyenoord and Ajax were both level on 30 points, but Feyenoord held a slight advantage in goal difference, keeping them in third place, with Ajax just behind in fourth. 

The entire Dutch football community had been left in awe by Ajax's remarkable resurgence over the past month. Just a few weeks earlier, they had languished in 12th place, far from the top of the table. Now, after a series of strong performances, they had climbed to fourth, reestablishing themselves as genuine contenders for European qualification. 

One of the key reasons behind Ajax's revival was the return of Yang Yang. Since his return to the starting lineup, Ajax's attacking potency had been reinvigorated. His speed, creativity, and sharp eye for goal had given Ajax a much-needed edge in the final third, helping them string together a series of dominant wins in the league. 

Despite their resurgence in domestic competition, the only blot on Ajax's recent performances was their elimination from the Champions League. The early exit had been a bitter pill to swallow, but few could blame the team. Ajax had been drawn into a near-impossible group, facing European heavyweights like Juventus and Bayern Munich. Even some of the biggest clubs in Europe might have struggled to qualify from such a group. 

It was simply bad luck, many said. Ajax had been dealt a cruel hand by the draw, and now they had to shift their focus to the UEFA Cup. 

But while their Champions League dreams were cut short, Ajax's domestic momentum was undeniable, and Yang Yang's contributions had been at the heart of it. The young winger, who had only just turned eighteen, had climbed to fourth place in the Eredivisie's goalscoring charts with eight goals to his name. 

The top three scorers in the league were Feyenoord's talismanic striker Dirk Kuyt, who led the pack with 12 goals, followed by Heerenveen's prolific center-forward Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Feyenoord's Salomon Kalou, both with nine goals. 

But unlike Kuyt, Huntelaar, and Kalou—who were all traditional strikers—Yang Yang was not only scoring goals, but also creating them. In addition to his eight goals, Yang Yang had already registered six assists, demonstrating his all-around attacking capabilities. When factoring in both goals and assists, his total contribution was comparable to the likes of Kuyt and the other top scorers, proving that he was just as valuable to Ajax's success. 

The Dutch media and fans had taken notice of his rapid rise. Many agreed that since the departure of Ibrahimović and Van der Vaart, Yang Yang had matured significantly, stepping up to fill the void left by the two former stars. This season, his performances had gone beyond simply being a promising talent—he had evolved into a core player for Ajax, someone the team could rely on in crucial moments. 

The media buzzed with headlines praising his growth. "Yang Yang: The New Face of Ajax's Attack" was one such title, capturing the sentiment of the fanbase. His composure on the ball, his ability to link up with teammates, and his clinical finishing had all improved since the previous season, and it was clear to everyone that Yang Yang was no longer just a young talent on the rise—he was now one of Ajax's most important players. 

As Ajax looked ahead to the remainder of the Eredivisie season and their upcoming UEFA Cup campaign, Yang Yang's form would be key to their success. His goals and assists were vital, but his presence on the pitch and his growing leadership role made him an indispensable part of Ronald Koeman's plans. 

The road ahead was long, but with Yang Yang leading the charge, Ajax had every reason to be optimistic about their chances of securing silverware this season. 

... 

... 

It was December, and the cold winter air had begun to settle across the Netherlands. In the fifteenth round of the Eredivisie, Ajax faced a tough away challenge against RKC Waalwijk. After a week of rest, the players were fresh, but playing away from home always brought its own challenges, and Waalwijk was eager to test Ajax's resilience. 

From the very first whistle, Waalwijk showed their intent, launching a wave of attacks. Ajax, perhaps caught off guard by the early intensity, found themselves under pressure. It didn't take long for the home side to break through. In the seventh minute, Waalwijk's midfielder Robert Fuchs found space inside the penalty area, latching onto a loose ball and firing it past Maarten Stekelenburg. The stadium erupted as Waalwijk took a 1-0 lead, and the Ajax players were left stunned. 

But rather than deflating the visitors, the goal seemed to serve as a wake-up call. Just four minutes later, Ajax responded with authority. Yang Yang, always a threat on the right wing, collected the ball and began driving at the Waalwijk defense with his trademark pace and skill. As he neared the byline, instead of crossing as the defense expected, he cleverly cut the ball back with a precise reverse triangle pass to the edge of the penalty area, where Wesley Sneijder was waiting. 

Sneijder, with his sharp instincts and perfect positioning, met the pass with a crisp first-time shot, drilling the ball low and into the bottom corner of the net. The equalizer came swiftly, leveling the score at 1-1, and suddenly the momentum had shifted back in Ajax's favor. 

The goal seemed to energize Ajax, and they began to dictate the pace of the game. They pressed high, forcing Waalwijk into mistakes, and dominated possession. Yang Yang was at the heart of every attacking move, constantly pulling defenders out of position with his dribbling and movement. 

In the 36th minute, Ajax's persistence paid off again. This time, it was Steven Pienaar who found the back of the net. The South African midfielder picked up the ball on the edge of the box after a neat passing sequence involving Sneijder and Pienaar. With a quick shift to his right foot, Pienaar unleashed a low drive that skidded off the turf and beat the goalkeeper at his near post. Ajax had turned the game on its head, taking a 2-1 lead just before halftime. 

The second half saw Waalwijk attempt to mount a response, but Ajax's defense, led by Heitinga and Vermaelen, stood firm. Stekelenburg was forced into making a few saves, but none of them truly troubled the Ajax goalkeeper. 

On the offensive side, Yang Yang continued to trouble Waalwijk with his pace and creativity, but despite several chances, Ajax couldn't extend their lead. Waalwijk, for their part, fought hard but lacked the cutting edge to break down Ajax's organized defense. 

As the final whistle blew, Ajax emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, securing another important three points in their climb up the Eredivisie standings. 

That same evening, PSV Eindhoven continued their dominance at the top of the table, cruising to a 4-0 win over De Graafschap, thanks to goals from Alex and Mark van Bommel, with Jefferson Farfán adding a brace to seal the win. Feyenoord also kept pace, defeating NEC Nijmegen 2-1 with goals from Dirk Kuyt and Salomon Kalou. Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar beat ADO Den Haag 2-0 to keep the pressure on the top two teams. 

With these results, the Eredivisie standings remained unchanged. PSV Eindhoven held onto their top spot with 38 points, Alkmaar remained second with 36 points, while Feyenoord and Ajax were still neck-and-neck with 33 points, Feyenoord clinging to third place due to their superior goal difference. 

Ajax's resurgence under Ronald Koeman continued, and with Yang Yang in top form, the Amsterdam side was once again seen as a serious contender in the title race. However, with PSV maintaining their consistency and Feyenoord still posing a significant threat, the battle for the Eredivisie crown was far from over. 

... 

Midweek brought the final round of the UEFA Champions League group stage, as Ajax welcomed Bayern Munich to the Amsterdam Arena. The stakes for Ajax were high, but the odds were stacked against them. 

Juventus had already secured their spot in the Round of 16, sitting comfortably at the top of the group. Meanwhile, Maccabi Tel Aviv, having lost all five of their group stage matches, had been eliminated, left only to fulfill their remaining fixture. Bayern Munich, with a commanding position, essentially had one foot in the knockout stages, needing only to avoid a four-goal defeat to Ajax to seal their progression as group runners-up. 

Ajax, on the other hand, faced a near-impossible task. They had to beat Bayern Munich by a margin of at least four goals to have any hope of advancing. Everyone knew the chances of such an outcome were slim, but the Ajax players were determined to fight until the end. The team, led by head coach Ronald Koeman, took to the field with pride, aiming to avenge the humiliating 4-0 defeat they suffered in the reverse fixture in Munich. 

Before the game, Koeman had delivered a clear message to his players: "It's not just about qualifying. We must restore our pride as the defending champions of the Champions League." 

As the match began, Bayern Munich, managed by Felix Magath, immediately showed their intent. Magath had set up his team to attack, with Owen Hargreaves sitting deep as a defensive shield, while Torsten Frings and Sebastian Deisler operated on the wings. Michael Ballack, Bayern's midfield general, led the charge from the center, driving his team forward with his powerful runs and intelligent positioning. 

Just nine minutes in, Bayern Munich's aggressive approach paid off. After a swift counterattack, Deisler combined with Kuffour on the right flank, advancing into Ajax's penalty area. Pizarro managed to flick the ball into the path of Roy Makaay, who, with his lethal left foot, hammered the ball past Maarten Stekelenburg to give Bayern a 1-0 lead. 

The early goal was a blow to Ajax, but it also sparked their determination. Fueled by frustration and pride, the Dutch side rallied, launching wave after wave of attacks. Yang Yang, in particular, was relentless on the right wing. His pace and trickery kept Bayern's defense on high alert as he constantly looked to create scoring opportunities. 

Finally, in the 38th minute, Ajax's pressure paid off. Yang Yang delivered a pinpoint cross from the right wing, finding Charisteas in the box. The Greek striker headed the ball into the path of Steven Pienaar, who cushioned it back to Tomas Galásek. From just outside the penalty area, the Czech midfielder unleashed a powerful low strike that pierced through the Bayern defense, beating the goalkeeper and leveling the score at 1-1. 

The Ajax faithful erupted in celebration, their team back on level terms and playing with renewed confidence. 

After the halftime break, Ajax continued to press forward, determined to turn the game in their favor. Bayern Munich, though still dangerous on the counterattack, seemed content to sit deeper, aware that their qualification was all but secured. 

In the 64th minute, Ajax found their breakthrough. Wesley Sneijder, always dangerous with his vision and passing, sent a perfectly weighted through ball into the space behind Bayern's defense. Yang Yang timed his run to perfection, darting past Bayern center-back Robert Kovač and racing toward goal. One-on-one with Bayern goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, Yang Yang kept his composure and slotted the ball neatly into the bottom corner, putting Ajax ahead 2-1. 

The stadium roared with approval. Ajax had turned the match around, and for a brief moment, it seemed as though they might just pull off the unthinkable. The players could feel the momentum, and there was a growing belief that they could hold on for a famous victory, if not the miraculous four-goal margin needed to advance. 

But Bayern Munich had other ideas. In the 76th minute, Magath made a tactical substitution, bringing on Ze Roberto to provide more width on the left. The Brazilian's pace and skill instantly caused problems for Ajax's defense. Just minutes after coming on, Ze Roberto sent in a dangerous cross from the left wing. Michael Ballack, making a late run into the box, rose above the Ajax defenders and powered a header past Stekelenburg, leveling the score at 2-2. 

The equalizer deflated Ajax's hopes of snatching a victory, and despite their best efforts in the final stages, they couldn't find another goal. When the final whistle blew, the match ended in a 2-2 draw. 

In the other group fixture, Juventus—already qualified and with nothing to play for—drew 1-1 with Maccabi Tel Aviv in a largely inconsequential match. With these results, both Juventus and Bayern Munich advanced to the Round of 16, while Ajax's European journey would continue in the UEFA Cup. 

Though Ajax had been eliminated from the Champions League, their performance against Bayern had restored some pride. They had fought valiantly and played with determination, showing that despite their misfortunes in the group stage, they were still a force to be reckoned with. 

For Yang Yang, his goal against Bayern was another sign of his growing stature within the team. He had become Ajax's most reliable attacking threat, and his performances continued to earn him praise both at home and abroad. The disappointment of the Champions League exit would sting, but Ajax still had much to play for in the domestic league and the UEFA Cup. 

... 

... 

Eredivisie Sixteenth Round 

Ajax returned to the Amsterdam Arena to face Vitesse, but things were far from straightforward. After a grueling week that included two matches in quick succession, Yang Yang's body was feeling the strain. During the pre-match physical examination, Jan Kruitenberg, Ajax's fitness coach, flagged concerns about Yang Yang's fatigue levels. Despite his desire to play, Yang Yang was deemed unfit to start, and head coach Ronald Koeman had no choice but to bench him for the match. 

Without Yang Yang, Ajax's attack lacked its usual spark. The young Ryan Babel was deployed as the left winger in Yang Yang's absence, while Wesley Sonck returned to his familiar role on the right. However, neither player was able to make a significant impact. Ajax struggled to break through Vitesse's organized defense, with both wingers failing to produce the creativity and attacking threat that Koeman had hoped for. 

As the minutes ticked by, frustration began to build within the Ajax camp. Vitesse, content to sit deep and defend, offered little going forward but remained resolute at the back, denying Ajax any clear chances. By the 70th minute, Koeman had seen enough. Desperate to find a breakthrough, he turned to his most reliable attacking option, calling Yang Yang off the bench. 

Despite his fatigue, Yang Yang's introduction immediately changed the dynamic of the game. His energy and movement injected life into Ajax's attack. Koeman made a tactical adjustment, replacing Wesley Sonck with Steven Pienaar and forming a new attacking trident of Pienaar, Charisteas, and Yang Yang. 

With fresh legs and renewed urgency, Ajax launched a series of relentless attacks. Vitesse, who had looked comfortable for much of the match, suddenly found themselves on the back foot, struggling to contain the new-look Ajax front line. 

Yang Yang, despite his tired body, was at the heart of every dangerous move, darting in from the right and linking up with Pienaar and Maxwell. His presence on the field lifted the entire team, and Ajax began to pin Vitesse back into their own half. 

As the clock ticked toward full time, the pressure on Vitesse intensified. Finally, in the 88th minute, Ajax found the breakthrough they had been searching for. 

Pienaar, who had been a constant threat since his introduction, drove the ball into the left side of the penalty area. With quick footwork, he created enough space to slip the ball back to Maxwell, who was charging forward from left-back. The Brazilian, known for his attacking runs, delivered a low cross into the box, aimed at the right side of the penalty spot. 

Yang Yang, making a perfectly timed diagonal run from the right flank, found himself in the perfect position. Controlling the ball with one touch, he quickly set himself and unleashed a powerful volley. The ball flew past the Vitesse goalkeeper and into the back of the net. 

1-0! 

The stadium erupted as Yang Yang wheeled away in celebration. His late strike had finally broken the deadlock, and Ajax had snatched the victory in dramatic fashion. The teammates mobbed him, celebrating a crucial win that kept their Eredivisie title hopes alive. 

The final whistle blew shortly after, confirming Ajax's hard-fought 1-0 victory over Vitesse. It was Yang Yang's ninth goal of the Eredivisie season, and it couldn't have come at a more important time. 

In other Eredivisie action that weekend, Feyenoord played out a thrilling 3-3 draw at home against PSV Eindhoven. Despite taking a two-goal lead, Feyenoord conceded twice in quick succession, allowing PSV to level the match. The draw meant that PSV missed the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table. 

Meanwhile, AZ Alkmaar continued their impressive form, thrashing FC Twente 5-0 at home, with Kenneth Pérez netting twice to keep pace with the league's top scorers. 

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The morning after Ajax's victory in the 16th round of the Eredivisie, exciting news broke across Europe: Yang Yang had been awarded the prestigious European Golden Boy Award for 2004. The announcement, made by Italian Sports News, confirmed Yang Yang's growing reputation as one of Europe's brightest young talents. 

Following in the footsteps of his former Ajax teammate Rafael van der Vaart, who won the award in 2003, Yang Yang had beaten out a field of elite young players. The list of nominees included Manchester United's Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, Atlético Madrid's Fernando Torres, Inter Milan's Obafemi Martins, and Anderlecht's Vincent Kompany. Despite the stiff competition, Yang Yang's incredible performances over the past year earned him the honor. 

Much like the previous season, the Turin Sports News—the creators of the European Golden Boy Award—sent the trophy directly to Ajax, where Yang Yang received it during a special ceremony. 

In an interview with the Italian outlet, Yang Yang expressed his gratitude. "I am very honored to receive this award. It's a tremendous recognition and an encouragement to continue improving," he said with humility. Reflecting on his year, he added, "I'm satisfied with what I've achieved, but I know I can do even better." 

The European Golden Boy Award is determined by the votes of 30 well-known European media outlets. Each media outlet can award up to 10 points per player, with the highest-scoring player earning the trophy. Yang Yang's performances in last season's Champions League, particularly his decisive goal in the final, coupled with his strong start to the current season, earned him high praise from across the continent. 

Prominent publications such as Milan Sports and Roman Sports in Italy, Marca and AS in Spain, and De Telegraaf in the Netherlands all awarded Yang Yang the maximum 10 points, highlighting his dominance. Other respected outlets like Team News in France and Bild in Germany also gave him near-perfect scores of nine points, further solidifying his position as Europe's top young player. 

In total, Yang Yang amassed an impressive 273 points, surpassing Van der Vaart's total from the previous year and finishing a full 50 points ahead of second-place Wayne Rooney. Cristiano Ronaldo, who finished third, trailed Yang Yang by nearly 100 points. It was a landslide victory, leaving no doubt that Yang Yang was the rightful recipient of the 2004 European Golden Boy Award. 

This award not only cemented Yang Yang's status as one of the brightest prospects in world football but also dramatically increased his popularity across Europe. Media outlets in Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom were quick to hail Yang Yang as Ajax's new talisman, speculating that it would only be a matter of time before he made the jump to one of Europe's elite clubs. 

Just three days after receiving the European Golden Boy Award, Yang Yang and Ajax had little time to rest. They had to prepare for their next match: the 17th round of the Eredivisie against FC Groningen, moved ahead of schedule due to Ajax's upcoming participation in the Intercontinental Cup (Toyota Cup) in Yokohama, Japan. 

In the first half of the match, neither team could break the deadlock. Groningen defended resolutely, and Ajax struggled to find the breakthrough, with the score locked at 0-0 at halftime. 

However, the second half saw Yang Yang rise to the occasion once again. In the 54th minute, he delivered a pinpoint assist to Wesley Sneijder, who slotted the ball home to give Ajax the lead. Shortly after, Steven Pienaar added a second goal, and Ajax began to assert their dominance. 

Yang Yang, though, wasn't finished. In the 74th minute, he picked up the ball on the right wing, cut inside with his signature dribble, and unleashed a powerful shot that flew past the Groningen goalkeeper, making it 3-0 to Ajax. Just four minutes later, he found the back of the net again, this time with a clinical finish after a well-worked team move. His second goal of the match sealed a comfortable 4-0 victory for Ajax. 

With two goals and one assist, Yang Yang was deservedly named the Man of the Match. His brace brought his tally for the Eredivisie season to 11 goals, moving him up to second place in the league's scoring charts. Additionally, his eight assists highlighted his all-around contributions to Ajax's success. 

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Eredivisie, the results of the weekend's fixtures shook up the standings. PSV Eindhoven, who had been leading the league, suffered a shocking 2-0 defeat at home to Roda JC. Feyenoord also faltered, losing 2-0 away to ADO Den Haag, while AZ Alkmaar took full advantage, cruising to a 2-0 victory over RBC Roosendaal. Alkmaar's win allowed them to leapfrog PSV Eindhoven into first place. 

After the round, the Eredivisie standings saw significant movement. AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven were tied at the top, but Alkmaar moved into first place on goal difference. Ajax, buoyed by their victory against Groningen, had finally closed the gap and caught up with PSV, now sitting just behind the leaders. Feyenoord, after their disappointing defeat, remained fourth but had slipped further from the top three. 

Yang Yang's remarkable form was continuing to capture the attention of fans and media alike. With his 11 goals and eight assists, he had proven himself to be one of the most decisive players in the Eredivisie, and his recent Golden Boy Award only added to his growing legend. As the season progressed, all eyes were on Yang Yang, wondering just how far he could carry Ajax in their pursuit of domestic and international glory.