Chapter 22: Senior Debut

October 19th, 2020.

Matthew's impressive performance in training had earned him a spot in the senior team's squad for their next match. He was over the moon, knowing that his senior debut was just days away.

Training sessions intensified as the team prepared for the big game. Matthew worked tirelessly, honing his skills and learning from the experienced players around him.

Commentators began to take notice, analyzing his chances of making a impact in the upcoming match. "Matthew, the 15-year-old wonderkid from Enyimba's youth team, is knocking on the door of the senior team. Can he break the record for the youngest debut player in the league's history?"

The day of the match arrived, and Matthew was nervous but ready. As he took his place on the bench, he could feel the energy of the crowd, the anticipation of the game.

The starting lineup was announced, and Matthew's name was not among the starters. But he knew his chance would come. The substitutes' bench was where he would begin his journey.

The teams took to the pitch, and the match began. Matthew watched intently, studying the game, waiting for his moment.

And then, disaster struck for Enyimba. Their left winger, Emmanuel, went down with an injury in the 48th minute. The coach looked to the bench, and his eyes landed on Matthew.

"Matthew, get ready. You're going in," he said, his voice firm and encouraging.

Matthew's heart raced as he stood up, his legs trembling with excitement. This was it, his senior debut. He was about to take the pitch, to show the world what he was capable of.

As he ran onto the pitch, the commentators' voices echoed in his ears. "And here comes Matthew, the 15-year-old sensation, making his senior debut for Enyimba. He's replacing the injured Emmanuel. And what a historic moment this is, folks! Matthew is now the youngest player to ever play in the league, breaking the record at just 15 years and 3 months old! And he's donning the number 49 jersey, a fitting number for this young prodigy!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, and Matthew's name was announced over the loudspeaker. He took his place on the wing, ready to make his mark.