Chapter 34: "Relentless Pursuit of Greatness"

The second half began after the end of the first.

Although Yoo Ji-woo consistently created opportunities through shooting and passing, he couldn't secure any more goal points.

Whistle—!

For the sake of managing his stamina, Ji-woo was substituted in the 64th minute.

> [Boca Juniors makes a substitution! Yoo Ji-woo is replaced by Renato Gonzalez!]

[It seems this is to conserve his energy.]

[What a performance it was. A goal and an assist on his debut… Isn't this more impactful than the debuts of Javier or Angel?]

Both players had debuted as substitutes in the second half without registering any decisive stats.

One Goal, One Assist

This made Ji-woo's debut record a definite topic of excitement among Boca Juniors fans.

"A fantastic debut match."

Javier Casero held out his hand, and Ji-woo exchanged a light high-five with him before heading off the field.

Clap, clap, clap, clap!

The crowd gradually rose to their feet, applauding the rookie who had delivered an incredible debut performance.

> [The crowd gives a standing ovation for Yoo Ji-woo, who showcased exceptional skills today!]

[How many rookies have received this kind of ovation on their debut?]

Ji-woo clapped back in appreciation and was substituted by Renato.

"Good work," said Sebastian Lancellotta in his typically stoic tone.

Ji-woo bowed his head. "Thank you."

Thus, Ji-woo's debut ended, leaving a powerful impression on many.

---

Post-Match Interview

After the game, Ji-woo was swarmed by reporters during the post-match interview session.

"It was your debut match at just sixteen years old. Did you feel any pressure?"

"I was under pressure, but I focused on showing my style of play."

"You've yet to sign a formal pro contract. Do you think this performance will lead to a contract?"

"I hope so, but that's the club's decision. I can't really comment on it."

He answered several more questions before the last question was posed.

A club representative pointed to one particular reporter, who then asked the final question.

"What are your aspirations moving forward?"

Numerous thoughts swirled in Ji-woo's mind.

> "I'll give my best."

"I'll achieve a lot at Boca Juniors."

These options felt too conventional, lacking impact.

Suddenly, a single sentence struck him, and, looking straight into the cameras, he declared:

"I will become the best player in the world."

---

The room fell silent momentarily, with many likely dismissing it as the overconfidence of a young player.

But Ji-woo had a dream journal where he'd written his goals since the day he decided to become a footballer.

1. Learn to play football.

2. Become a starter at a renowned school team.

3. Join a professional club.

4. Make the top 20-player roster.

5. Secure a starting spot.

6. Be selected for the Best XI.

7. Represent the national team.

8. Become a national team starter.

9. Compete in the World Cup.

10. Win the World Cup.

11. Become a starter at a prestigious European club.

12. Win the UEFA Champions League.

And now, Ji-woo had added one more goal:

> Become the best player in the world.

This became his ultimate target, freshly inscribed in his journal.

---

After the press conference, Ji-woo's family awaited him in the hallway.

"You're here!"

His family wasn't alone—Yoo Min-ha's friends had also come to cheer for him.

"Father, Mother."

Ji-woo handed them the jersey he wore during the game.

"It got a bit dirty from all the falls, but I wanted you two to have my debut jersey."

Seo Seol-hee, his mother, accepted the jersey with tears streaming down her face, while Yoo Han-woo, his father, hugged Ji-woo tightly.

"I'm so proud of you."

"Dad."

"Yes? What is it?"

"I want to eat galbi-jjim (braised short ribs)."

"Alright! Let's cook galbi-jjim and throw a neighborhood party!"

---

Back at home, Ji-woo fell asleep in the car, exhausted.

Seol-hee gently stroked his face, smiling contentedly.

"Finally, he's relaxed."

His father, Han-woo, remarked, "He's earned this. Today's performance reflects all his hard work."

Despite having concerns about Ji-woo overtraining, Han-woo chose not to interfere. After seeing his son regain his lost smile through football, he couldn't bring himself to stop him.

Seol-hee noticed the small scars on Ji-woo's arms and legs—wounds earned from countless falls and struggles on the pitch.

---

> "The Little Prince of Boca Shines Bright: 1 Goal, 1 Assist!"

"Sebastian Lancellotta: 'Yu is an extraordinary talent who delivered on his promise.'"

"Boca's Little Prince Declares: 'My goal is to become the best player in the world.'"

---

The next morning, Ji-woo's family sat down for a massive breakfast prepared by Seol-hee.

"Mom, this is amazing! Thank you!"

With every bite of galbi-jjim, Ji-woo's happiness was palpable. His sisters teased him, asking for autographs.

Ji-woo went upstairs and returned with signed jerseys.

"Here's a gift for you."

"Wow! Thank you, Ji-woo!"

---

A few days later, Seol-hee, Yoo Min-ha, and Ji-woo's sisters returned to Korea.

Ji-woo remained in Argentina, fully focused on the league.

League Match 4: CA Tucumán

In the electrifying atmosphere of La Bombonera, Ji-woo scored a stunning goal in the 85th minute, once again proving his worth.

Kissing the Boca Juniors crest during his celebration, the crowd roared:

> "Yu! Yu! Yu! Yu! Yu!"

Ji-woo's name reverberated across the stadium, cementing his place as a rising star.