Chapter 299

In the second round of the UEFA Champions League group stage, Real Madrid confronted Dynamo Kyiv at the Bernabeu, facing the formidable powerhouse of the Ukrainian Super League. Dynamo Kyiv boasted a team with three Golden Globe winners – Blokhin, Belalov, and Shevchenko. The intensity of the match escalated within just 5 minutes when Ramos, Galacticos' main defender, suffered an injury after a challenge from Milevski, receiving only a yellow card.

The injury crisis deepened for Real Madrid, with Carlos already sidelined. As Ramos lay on the ground, Schuster anxiously consulted with the team doctor, Edsenger, who eventually signaled for a substitution. Bravo replaced the injured Ramos, leaving Real Madrid's defense in a precarious state.

Under the onslaught of Dynamo Kyiv's attacks, Real Madrid, missing two key defensive players, faced a challenging situation. The midfield duo of Kreira and Berkevich obstructed the path to the frontcourt, compelling Wang Feng, Guti, and Raul to retreat deeper in search of opportunities.

Wang Feng's versatility shone as he engaged in defensive duties, waiting for an opening. Taking matters into his own hands, Yousef dribbled past the center line. Guti's quick input from the right triggered Wang Feng's left-footed diagonal pass, skillfully bypassing Dynamo Kyiv's midfielders and landing perfectly at Guti's feet.

The precision of the pass showcased Wang Feng's playmaking abilities, drawing admiration from the fans. Guti's adept control set the stage for an inverted triangle cross, and in a surprising turn of events, Raul opted for a blind pass to the left. Wang Feng, displaying an uncanny understanding with Raul despite their short time together, capitalized on the opportunity.

The result was an exquisite left-footed strike by Wang Feng, surprising both fans and opponents. Real Madrid took the lead 1-0, showcasing a moment of brilliance in offensive coordination. Commentators likened Wang Feng's all-encompassing role to the styles of Beckham and Zidane.

However, defensive vulnerabilities haunted Real Madrid. Dynamo Kyiv's frontcourt duo of Berkevich and Shaskikh exploited gaps in the defense, equalizing before halftime. The second half witnessed an early goal from Dynamo Kyiv, with Milevski outmaneuvering Bravo to seize the lead.

As the game approached its conclusion, Wang Feng, positioned deeper, orchestrated a crucial play. Receiving the ball from Reyes, he embarked on a solo run, eluding defender Gabrancic's challenge. From 25 meters out, Wang Feng unleashed a powerful long shot that bounced into the net, securing a 2-2 draw for Real Madrid.

After two UEFA Champions League group stage matches, Real Madrid found themselves with two draws, placing them third in the group behind Lyon and Dynamo Kyiv. Despite Wang Feng's impressive contributions, defensive frailties and a string of injuries continued to plague the once-mighty Galacticos.

In the aftermath, Emerson joined the list of casualties, straining his thigh during training and sidelining him for a month. Schuster, grappling with misfortunes, expressed frustration at Real Madrid's streak of bad luck.

In La Liga's fifth round in early October, Real Madrid faced Atletico Madrid in a highly anticipated intra-city derby. Atletico Madrid, bolstered by key signings like Aguero, aimed for a Champions League spot. Aguirre, their coach, expressed determination and dismissed concerns about Real Madrid's injuries.

The stage was set for a clash of titans, as Atletico Madrid, strengthened in all three lines, sought to make a statement against their arch-rivals. The match held not just the weight of rivalry but also the promise of a fiercely competitive encounter between two evenly matched sides.