Asian Cup Group Stage Match 2

When the referee blew the final whistle, the Chinese fans in the stadium offered polite applause for the players on the pitch, but it was far from enthusiastic. Despite the victory, there was a lingering sense of dissatisfaction in the air. 

In the closing minutes of the match, the Chinese defense had faltered again. Sun Jihai, who had come on as a substitute, committed an unnecessary foul while defending, gifting Bahrain a dangerous free kick. The initial delivery was cleared by the Chinese defense, but the ball was quickly recycled and sent back into the penalty area by Bahrain's midfielders. 

What followed was a lapse in concentration. Both Chinese central defenders failed to challenge for the ball properly, allowing Bahrain's number 9 to latch onto the cross. With a quick turn and a volley, he found the back of the net, reducing China's lead to 3-2. 

The game was won, but the last-minute concession left a bitter taste. What should have been a convincing comeback victory was marred by the careless defending that let Bahrain score a late goal. 

It was like savoring a bowl of ramen—enjoying each bite—only to suddenly spot a fly floating in the broth at the last moment. The taste of victory was soured by an avoidable mistake. 

Yang Yang felt that disappointment as he walked off the field. He couldn't wrap his head around it. The situation hadn't even been particularly dangerous, yet somehow it had turned into a goal. A match that should have ended in a commanding 3-1 win had been blemished by a needless error. 

In the grand scheme of things, a 3-1 or 3-2 scoreline didn't make much difference. The Chinese team still walked away with three points. But the manner in which they had conceded that second goal left a nagging sense of frustration—especially for Yang Yang. 

Perhaps it was his perfectionist streak, or his relentless desire for things to be done right, but Yang Yang found it hard to accept that kind of defensive lapse. He knew the fans felt the same way; the muted applause reflected their dissatisfaction. 

Still, Yang Yang wasn't the type to let one moment of disappointment drag him down. That wasn't his mentality. The game was over, the points were secured, and it was time to move forward. 

As he walked off the pitch, his thoughts had already shifted to the next match. He had shown his quality and hunger during the second half, proving he could make a difference. He believed that Arie Haan had taken notice—not just of his skill, but of his burning desire for the game, for victory, and for honor. 

Now the question that occupied his mind was simple: Would the next game offer him a starting spot? Could he take another step closer to cementing his place in the team? 

Yang Yang was ready for the challenge. 

... 

... 

"Same old problems." 

Wei Zhen, sitting in the stands, shook his head with a sigh. As the director and reporter for the national sports channel, he was all too familiar with the recurring issues of the Chinese national team. 

For many domestic fans, the national team felt like an enigma. Just when you thought they'd turned a corner and started to fill you with confidence, they found a way to let you down—often in the most unpredictable and frustrating ways. 

But what choice did anyone have? 

China had only one national football team, a reality no one could change. Fans might hurl criticism, venting their frustrations with the team's shortcomings, but the truth was that they still cared deeply. The passion behind the scolding came from a place of hope—the hope that one day, Chinese football would rise and fulfill its potential. 

The real worry wasn't the criticism. What would be truly alarming was if the fans stopped caring altogether, if they grew so indifferent that they didn't even bother to criticize. 

"He played well. No one would be criticizing him, right?" Su Ye, seated next to Wei Zhen, asked softly. 

She was, of course, referring to Yang Yang. 

"Of course not," Su Wenhong chimed in with a chuckle. "Yang Yang was involved in setting up two goals. If anyone's still criticizing him, then what should we say about the other players?" 

After a pause, Su Wenhong, a seasoned football fan, offered his insight. "It's clear that Yang Yang understands Arie Haan's tactical approach. Once he came on, the whole dynamic of the game shifted. Bahrain's most dangerous outlet, their left flank, was completely neutralized by him in the second half." 

Wei Zhen nodded in agreement. "But the kid's only seventeen. It took guts for Arie Haan to trust him in such a crucial moment." 

Yang Yang's rise had been meteoric. From Ajax in the Eredivisie to the Champions League, and then to the Toulon Cup, he had repeatedly proven his quality. His performances on the international stage had only solidified his reputation. One of his early weaknesses—his first touch—had improved dramatically. Each match seemed to bring further growth and refinement in his game. 

Even in the national team, Yang Yang's overall strength was undeniable. More importantly, he seemed to understand Arie Haan's tactical plans better than most of his teammates, perhaps because Haan himself came from Ajax's footballing philosophy. 

"He deserves more opportunities," Su Wenhong continued. "If you watch how hard he works, how much he wants to improve, it's clear. If a player like him doesn't make it, then something's seriously wrong." 

Wei Zhen nodded thoughtfully, fully agreeing with the sentiment. 

Beside them, Su Ye sat quietly, her thoughts turning inward. She had watched Yang Yang's rise, seen the spark in his play, and she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for him. 

... 

... 

"This is how I want you all to play!" 

Back in the locker room, Arie Haan's voice echoed as he addressed the entire team, his tone firm and authoritative. It was clear to everyone what he meant—his approval of the second-half performance. 

The players exchanged glances, understanding the message loud and clear. The transformation after halftime was evident to all. 

One member of the Chinese coaching staff couldn't help but glance at Yang Yang, his expression a mix of embarrassment and realization. During the halftime break, he had been concerned about Yang Yang's youth and assumed the 17-year-old might be too hesitant to ask questions or fully grasp the tactical nuances. But now, the young player had done more than just absorb the instructions—he had showcased an in-depth understanding that far exceeded expectations. 

Yang Yang's actions in the second half had been a powerful, practical demonstration of Arie Haan's tactical blueprint. He had not only executed the coach's game plan but elevated it, giving the entire team a lesson in how effective pressing and intelligent movement could reshape a match. The system, which had seemed difficult for others to fully comprehend, was brought to life by Yang Yang. 

The senior coach now realized the critical distinction—Haan's tactics worked, but they required the right player to implement them. If more players could replicate Yang Yang's tactical understanding and decisive execution, the Chinese team could raise its level significantly. With that kind of collective understanding, China wouldn't just compete with the heavyweights of Asia—teams like Japan, South Korea, and Iran—they would pose a real challenge. 

But that was the issue. There was only one Yang Yang, and not everyone had the same grasp of the game. 

Of course, there were a few exceptions—players like Zheng Zhi, who had a more sophisticated understanding of football tactics and skills. But they were in the minority. 

"In four days, we have our second match," Arie Haan continued. "I expect the team to carry forward the same approach we showed in the second half, minus the mistake that led to the last goal. If we play like that, we will qualify for the quarter-finals." 

As he finished speaking, Arie Haan turned toward Yang Yang, locking eyes with him for a moment. He gave a nod of approval and encouragement. The look said it all—Haan's faith in Yang Yang was clear, and it was now out in the open for everyone to see. 

There was no doubt that the team understood who Arie Haan was referring to. Yang Yang had become the focal point of the coach's strategy, and it was evident that Haan was placing much of his hopes for the Asian Cup on the young winger's shoulders. 

The reasoning was simple: only Yang Yang had shown the ability to fully understand and implement the tactical vision Haan had brought from his time at Ajax. 

But could this 17-year-old shoulder such a heavy burden? 

The internationals in the locker room exchanged uneasy glances, some of them clearly questioning whether a player so young could carry the weight of expectation in a tournament as important as the Asian Cup. The doubt was palpable. 

Yet, as they looked at Yang Yang, many couldn't help but feel a growing sense of belief. He had proven himself once already—perhaps he could do it again. 

... 

... 

Four days later, back at the Workers' Stadium, the Chinese team took the field for their second Asian Cup match, this time against Indonesia. 

By the 14th minute, China had already begun to assert their dominance. The attack built up from the left side, where Sun Xiang made an overlapping run, receiving the ball before laying it off to Yan Song. The left winger executed a quick one-two with Shao Jiayi, catching the Indonesian defense off guard. As Yan Song surged forward, he spotted an opening and whipped a cross into the top of the penalty area. 

In an unexpected move, Yang Yang, who was positioned on the right wing, suddenly appeared near the edge of the box. Reading the play perfectly, he ghosted into the arc, just as Yan Song's cross arrived. With his first touch, Yang Yang expertly lifted the ball over the head of the onrushing Indonesian defender, creating a pocket of space for himself. 

Without hesitating, he unleashed a fierce strike with his right foot. The ball shot forward with blistering pace, arrowing toward the bottom right corner of the goal. 

The Indonesian goalkeeper, caught off guard by the speed and precision of the shot, could do nothing but watch as the ball grazed the inside of the post and slammed into the back of the net. 

At the moment the ball crossed the line, Yang Yang erupted in celebration. Overcome with emotion, he sprinted toward the stands, sliding on his knees in front of the section where Wei Zhen and Su Ye were seated, though he didn't know their exact location. 

1-0! 

Yang Yang had just scored his first goal for the Chinese national team! 

"My God! Yang Yang is without a doubt the most exciting discovery for China in this Asian Cup!" the commentator shouted, barely containing his excitement. 

"Just last match, he set the record for being the youngest player to ever feature for the national team, and tonight, still here at the Workers' Stadium, he's made history again—becoming the youngest goalscorer in Chinese national team history!" 

"What a brilliant strike! Yan Song delivered a perfectly timed cross from the left, and Yang Yang, with his vision and sharp movement, peeled away from the defender, creating space for himself. Then, without a second thought, he unleashed that powerful shot." 

"His form tonight is exceptional. From the opening whistle, he's shown incredible desire and hunger for the game. His effort has been rewarded with this spectacular goal." 

The entire stadium, packed with Chinese fans, erupted into chants of "Yang Yang!" echoing through the stands. The atmosphere was electric, the fans fully behind their young star. 

Despite Indonesia's clear intention to mark him tightly, Yang Yang had found a way to slip into space and capitalize on his opportunity. His composure and quick thinking allowed him to break the deadlock with the opening goal. 

No one had expected it, not even Yang Yang himself. But one thing he knew for certain—his form was excellent, and his confidence was soaring. 

Since joining the national team for training, Yang Yang's hunger for the game had been insatiable. Now, with this goal, he felt a sense of fulfillment, knowing that his moment had come. 

His teammates, too, were beginning to recognize what Yang Yang brought to the squad. They had gradually come to accept that this young winger, with his sharp instincts and relentless energy, was emerging as the key to unlocking China's attacking potential. Yang Yang was becoming the cutting edge of the Chinese team's offense. 

... 

... 

After conceding the early goal, Indonesia grew more anxious and started playing with a sense of urgency, which led to mistakes. In contrast, the Chinese team remained composed, patiently maintaining control of the game. 

Yang Yang continued to be a lively presence on the right wing, but Indonesia quickly adapted, tightening their defense on his side. However, in their effort to contain him, they left the left flank exposed. 

It didn't take long for China to capitalize on this. In the 30th minute, the next goal arrived. Shao Jiayi, who had been linking up well with the left side, sent in a perfect cross. Hao Haidong was in the right place, timing his run perfectly to meet the ball and slot it home. The score was now 2-0. 

China kept the pressure on. Another attack down the left saw Sun Xiang make a well-timed run, firing off a long-range effort that was deflected out for a corner. Shao Jiayi stepped up to take the set-piece, delivering a precise corner that found Li Weifeng, who rose above everyone to head the ball into the back of the net. 

By halftime, China was sitting comfortably with a 3-0 lead. 

During the break, Arie Haan could hardly contain his satisfaction. With a smile, he praised the team's efforts, especially the work on both flanks. Yang Yang had set the tone with the opening goal on the right, and once Indonesia shifted their focus to contain him, the left side had taken full advantage, repeatedly creating scoring opportunities. 

Haan encouraged his players to keep the momentum going into the second half, reminding them to stay focused and continue the aggressive, attacking play that had worked so well. 

Sure enough, the second half started with the same intensity. In the 50th minute, Yang Yang once again proved to be a threat. Receiving a pass from Shao Jiayi on the right, he found himself in a one-on-one situation with the Indonesian left-back. With a slick step-over, he easily bypassed the defender, darting into the box before sending a low cross to the near post. 

Shao Jiayi, arriving late into the box, met the pass with a sharp shot, sending the ball into the net to make it 4-0. 

It was a dominant display, a statement of intent. 

This was more than just a victory—it was a complete dismantling of Indonesia. 

After their strong performance in the opening match, the Chinese team unleashed another offensive masterclass, overwhelming their opponents in all areas of the pitch. 

Yang Yang, in particular, was a standout. Not only had he scored the opening goal, but he also provided an assist, making him the driving force behind China's two-game winning streak. With two assists in the first match and one goal and one assist in this game, Yang Yang had been directly involved in four of the seven goals China had scored so far in the tournament. 

The numbers, while impressive, didn't tell the full story. It was clear to everyone that Yang Yang had become the key figure in the team's success. 

With China in total control and already thinking ahead to the quarterfinals, Arie Haan decided it was time to preserve his star player. He made a substitution, replacing Yang Yang with the veteran Li Ming to give the youngster some much-needed rest. 

Even with Yang Yang off the field, China continued to push forward. Yan Song, shifting his focus to the left flank, provided an assist for Li Yi, who capped off the scoring with a neat finish. 

When the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 5-0 in favor of China. 

It was a crushing defeat for Indonesia and a triumphant win for China. The team had delivered two consecutive dominant performances, with Yang Yang at the heart of it all. 

As the players walked off the pitch, the chants of "Yang Yang" echoed through the stadium once again. He had well and truly announced himself as the rising star of the Chinese national team.