The stadium buzzed with energy, the echo of the crowd's cheers rippling like a thunderstorm. The Italians regrouped after conceding, their coach shouting orders from the sidelines. Elian wiped the sweat from his brow, locking eyes briefly with David, who gave him a thumbs-up. The early goal was a much-needed boost, but the match was far from over.
Italy's restart was deliberate, their midfield trio of Conti, De Luca, and Ferrari orchestrating a slow build-up. The ball zipped between them like a live wire, testing England's resolve. Milo lunged in for a tackle but was left chasing shadows as De Luca spun away.
"Don't get sucked in!" Archer yelled, commanding the backline to hold their shape.
Elian kept an eye on Cristiano La Rosa, who drifted like a ghost at the edge of England's defensive line. La Rosa was quick and cunning—a single slip could give him the edge. The game stretched thin, every pass raising the stakes.