Pitchside Genius

In 2024, at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium in Garoua, Aymar Zambo stood poised on the sidelines, his intense gaze tracking each movement as his players surged forward or dropped back to defend. Occasionally, he stepped closer to the edge of the pitch, gesturing to players in Gazelle FA's signature blue and white kits, offering quick instructions or tactical adjustments. 

Once a modest presence in Cameroonian football, Gazelle FA de Garoua had often been overshadowed by the country's larger clubs. Just two years prior, they had been competing in the second division, where they were largely seen as an easy fixture for stronger teams. However, under the leadership of the 23-year-old Zambo, the club's fortunes transformed dramatically. They battled through the ranks of Elite Two, earned promotion, and, in a stunning feat, clinched the league title last season. As they prepared for the upcoming season, the team stood unified and determined under Zambo's guidance, ready to defend their status among Cameroon's top clubs. 

Every Gazelle FA fan knew the club's recent successes were due to the unrelenting dedication and vision of Zambo. His journey with the club had deep roots. Early in his career, Zambo himself was a promising young player, a favorite among fans who believed he would soon make his way to European football. Unfortunately, a serious injury during a preseason match ended his playing career abruptly. Around the same time, the former head coach resigned, citing an inability to lift the team from its stagnation in the second division after years of effort. 

Undeterred by his own setback, Zambo was determined to remain in the world of football. Given that the club president was an old friend of his father, Zambo requested a chance to stay with Gazelle FA in a different role. The president offered him a risky opportunity: he would have five games to prove himself as a coach, with his position on the line if the team suffered consecutive losses. Zambo's impact was immediate and transformative; under his guidance, the team won five straight matches. His prior camaraderie with the players helped them trust his tactical vision, despite his recent transition from teammate to coach. 

Though he had played only briefly, Zambo understood the game with a tactical precision that defied his years. Leading one of the league's weakest teams, he secured their promotion and ultimately guided them to a league championship within just two years. Many fans began to dub him a "genius coach," but Zambo knew his success was not merely luck or innate talent—it was the result of relentless dedication and hard work. 

The Roumdé Adjia Stadium, with its distinctive running tracks encircling the field, pulsed with the fervor of Gazelle FA supporters. Fans from all over Garoua packed the stands and spilled into the areas around the pitch, eager to witness the preseason clash. Among the crowd were men and women, young and old, proudly sporting blue and white as they prepared to cheer on their champions. Excitement filled the air, blending with the vibrant sounds of drums and chants as the stadium became a sea of Gazelle FA pride. 

Today's match, though labeled a preseason fixture, was anything but routine. Gazelle FA was set to face Al Ahly SC from Egypt, a club renowned across Africa for its storied history and dominance in the CAF Champions League. Often called the "Real Madrid of Africa" for their exceptional record and passionate following, Al Ahly posed a formidable challenge that demanded Gazelle's utmost discipline and focus. 

Al Ahly's head coach, a seasoned tactician in African football, had forged a team known for its rigor and intensity, a squad built to excel in both local leagues and continental tournaments. For Gazelle FA, this encounter was more than preparation—it was a critical test, a chance to gauge their readiness as they looked ahead to representing Cameroon in the CAF Champions League. 

Sixty minutes into the match, the scoreboard still displayed a 1-1 deadlock. 

Glancing at the scoreboard, Aymar Zambo caught sight of Al Ahly's head coach, Marcel Koller, pacing along the sideline, his expression tight with frustration as he gestured emphatically to his players. Aymar allowed himself a slight smirk. So, this is the renowned coach? Not as calm and collected as his reputation suggests! 

Koller had given an interview before the match, and his words had left a sour impression on Zambo. To reporters, he'd said, "Gazelle FA is a solid team, but only relative to other teams in Cameroon. This is their first league title and their first time in the CAF Champions League. We don't mean to sound patronizing, but we hope Gazelle can help us sharpen our form for the season despite the difference in level." 

A traditional football powerhouse facing a team that only recently rose from the second division, Al Ahly's players and staff appeared dismissive, not expecting much of a contest. But Aymar saw things differently. Despite the game's preseason label, he viewed it as a crucial test, an opportunity to prove his team's worth against one of Africa's finest. He believed they could win, and his confidence was contagious. 

"Did you hear him? He's underestimating us—belittling us," Aymar remarked to his players, his tone carrying a blend of irritation and determination. "He didn't even try to hide his condescension. This is our home stadium, and he doesn't show us even a hint of respect." 

He let the words hang in the air, watching the determination ignite in his players' eyes. "If it were me, I'd stand tall, go out there, beat them, and make sure they remember not to look down on anyone, even if they think we're an easy target." 

His words sparked a fire in his squad, a group that only two years ago had struggled in the second division. Now, they weren't just a team to be taken lightly—they were the reigning champions of Cameroon. Driven by pride and a fierce sense of respect for their journey, they wouldn't allow anyone to treat them as mere practice opponents on their home ground. 

The game began with Al Ahly dominating as Koller had anticipated, controlling possession and netting a goal within the first five minutes. They continued to press through the half, nearly scoring again right before the break. Everything seemed to be going according to plan for Koller. But in the second half, the momentum shifted. Gazelle came out with an aggressive press, catching Al Ahly off guard, and managed to equalize with a powerful long-range strike from their number nine in the 50th minute. 

To Koller, the equalizer was a temporary setback; he expected his team to respond with another goal. But he hadn't anticipated Gazelle's next move. After leveling the score, they began to tighten their defense, employing a compact strategy that left Al Ahly struggling to create meaningful chances. 

Koller scanned the field, observing his players—experienced talents from across Egypt and a few from other African countries. The team boasted seasoned professionals, with several players holding impressive records in African leagues and known for their scoring ability. Al Ahly's backline was anchored by a reliable Egyptian defender, whose years of experience lent stability and strength to their defense. 

By any measure, Al Ahly's roster held immense value, individual strength, and a wealth of experience. Yet here they were, finding it unexpectedly difficult to break down a newly-promoted team from Cameroon. For Koller, a draw in this match would be an unwelcome surprise, throwing a wrench in their preseason preparations. 

He glanced across the pitch at Gazelle's young coach, impressed despite himself. Perhaps they had underestimated Gazelle FA in choosing them as a warm-up opponent. The spirited, disciplined play from this team—guided by that determined figure on the sideline—was presenting a far tougher challenge than they had expected. 

"What's his name?" Koller asked, frowning. The name had been mentioned earlier, but he couldn't quite recall it. 

"Aymar Zambo," his assistant supplied immediately. "A former player, I hear—his career ended early due to injury, but he was given a chance to stay in the game by coaching Gazelle." 

Koller nodded thoughtfully, making a mental note to remember the name. This young coach has real potential, he mused. Not just anyone could turn a second-division team into league champions in two short years. 

Some might chalk this match up to luck or a fluke, believing that anything is possible on the football field. But Koller, a veteran coach, knew better. Football had a way of rewarding hard work and preparation—there were rarely accidents in results. As he watched Zambo and his team hold their ground, Koller couldn't help but acknowledge that they had earned this challenge through effort and resilience. 

... 

... 

Time continued to pass, yet the situation on the field remained largely unchanged. 

For Aymar, a draw would be a victory in itself, a testament to his team's resilience. For Koller, however, it would be a disappointing setback, a frustrating result he was determined to avoid. Unwilling to settle, Koller made tactical adjustments, hoping to break through Gazelle FA's defense. But Aymar, despite his youth, had a maturity and poise that belied his age—a steadiness forged through years of helping his family. Each time Koller shifted his approach, Aymar responded in kind, adjusting his players to plug gaps and maintain their defensive wall. 

One thing remained constant: Aymar showed no intention of launching an attack since they equalized. 

The crowd saw little change in the match dynamics, unaware of the tactical battle unfolding between the two coaches. Koller made two substitutions, while Aymar adjusted his lineup once, yet the score stayed at 1-1 as the clock ticked into the 78th minute. 

Aymar glanced at Koller, noting the frustration etched across his face. Suppressing a smile, he turned back to his bench and gestured toward his number 11, giving him a slight nod. 

Masango Malembe, wearing number 11, stood up to warm up. Known for his speed and flair, Masango idolized Neymar, choosing his jersey number in homage to the Brazilian star. His teammates had dubbed him the "Cameroonian Neymar" for his agility and love of flashy dribbles and nutmegs, often leaving defenders embarrassed in his wake. 

If Koller had thoroughly researched Gazelle FA's lineup, he would have recognized the threat Masango posed. The young winger was one of Aymar's top choices, frequently pairing with number 7, Fernand Eyene, in what fans referred to as the "Sharp Duo" of Gazelle FA. 

Aymar knew from the outset that his team would need to rely on defense to keep up with Al Ahly, who had the advantage in skill and experience. When they conceded an early goal, it wasn't part of his plan, but he managed to calm his players, regrouping them to prevent further damage before halftime. 

During the break, he picked up on Al Ahly's underestimation of Gazelle. Banking on their complacency, he instructed his players to press hard for the first ten minutes of the second half, aiming for an equalizer. If they failed, he would prioritize a solid defense to avoid a heavy loss. Fortunately, his gamble paid off; his team leveled the score with a well-placed long shot, and from that point on, he instructed them to "park the bus," focusing all efforts on preserving the draw. 

Observing Al Ahly's players from the sidelines, Aymar noticed subtle signs of fatigue and laxity setting in—a hint of complacency as they struggled to break down Gazelle's defense. Sensing his moment, he sent Masango in to warm up, preparing to deliver a decisive blow with this carefully timed substitution. 

Koller was also preparing his own substitutions, allowing a few younger players to warm up on the sidelines. He intended to give them valuable match experience while ensuring his first-team players maintained fitness for the season ahead. Confident in his team's strength, he assumed that even his substitutes would be more than enough to handle this Cameroonian side. 

But Aymar saw things differently. Caution was his hallmark, and he kept a close watch on Al Ahly's right-sided center-back—a veteran of the Egyptian league with experience abroad. Though highly trusted and wearing the captain's armband, the 33-year-old defender was visibly fatigued after nearly 80 minutes of play. His energy was waning, yet Al Ahly had made no defensive changes. 

"The left channel is our chance," Aymar murmured to Masango, pulling him aside. "With your speed, you should be able to beat him one-on-one. Watch for the offside line, though—time it right." 

Aymar then pointed out another tactical detail. "They've brought on a young right-back. He'll be eager to prove himself, maybe a bit overconfident. Take advantage of that—don't hesitate. When you get the ball, go straight for him and break through." 

Masango, who had played under Aymar for nearly three years, trusted his coach's instincts implicitly. Aymar's words before the match echoed in his mind: We won't lose today. And as he glanced up at the scoreboard, still reading 1-1, any doubts vanished. 

"Fernand's job is to find the space and feed the ball to you," Aymar added, his gaze steady. "Whether he reaches you or not, that's your responsibility, Masango." He gave a reassuring pat to Masango's shoulder. "I take this game seriously—more than any other match I've coached. Koller underestimates us, underestimates me, but I intend to prove him wrong. And you're going to show them you can compete with anyone, even against Africa's best." 

A wave of adrenaline surged through Masango, filling him with an overwhelming sense of purpose. His entire body tingled with energy, his focus laser-sharp, as he prepared to take the field. 

In the 81st minute, Gazelle FA made their move. Aymar substituted a midfielder, who was visibly drained, with Masango, donning the number 11 jersey. 

Koller took little notice of the substitution, having overlooked Gazelle FA's lineup in detail. To him, this was just a routine midfield switch. His thoughts were already spinning—wondering what explanation he might need if the game ended in a draw. Blame the defensive "iron wall" Gazelle had set up? Perhaps the uneven playing surface? He mentally listed his excuses. 

Yet, just as he felt prepared with justifications, the dynamics on the field shifted suddenly and dramatically. 

... 

... 

After entering the game, Masango moved in and around the striker position, creating interference and positioning himself strategically, though initially without much impact. 

As Aymar predicted, Al Ahly's right-back pushed forward, overconfidently joining the attack. However, a quick interception sent the ball to the feet of number 7, Fernand Eyene. 

Despite his central position, Fernand—nicknamed "the Midfield Maestro"—was known for his precise passing, ranking high in assists last season. While he didn't play on the right like his idol, Beckham, his passing skills made him one of the most reliable playmakers in Gazelle FA. 

Receiving the ball without immediate pressure, Fernand noted how Al Ahly's backline stayed high, showing little respect for the potential counterattack. Sensing an opportunity, he calmly assessed the field and spotted Masango out wide on the right. 

Seeing the loose marking, Fernand couldn't help but feel motivated. He positioned himself and delivered a sweeping pass toward Masango, curving it perfectly toward the edge of the penalty area. The ball's landing point was slightly off, but Masango's speed allowed him to dart forward, slicing through the defense and gaining control. 

Al Ahly's goalkeeper hesitated, then decided to rush out, attempting to close down the angle. But Masango was faster, tapping the ball just beyond the keeper's reach. With deft footwork, he maneuvered around him, carrying the ball all the way into the net! 

Gazelle FA had taken the lead—2-1! 

The stadium erupted in cheers as fans jumped to their feet, their applause a resounding echo of pride. They reveled in the fact that the CAF Champions League giants had been caught off guard by a team once considered underdogs. The elation among Gazelle FA's supporters was palpable, and some in the stands even hoped that Al Ahly would feel the sting of this unexpected turn. 

Aymar clenched his fist with a satisfied smile. He had anticipated this goal, knowing Al Ahly's lack of discipline would eventually open an opportunity. Their players, perhaps too comfortable, had lost the focus needed to compete through the full ninety minutes. This overconfidence, coupled with the casual nature of a warm-up match, had given Aymar and his team the opening they needed. 

"Alright, don't get complacent!" Aymar called out from the sidelines. "Keep up the intensity, press hard, and let's aim to score again!" 

The Gazelle FA players were riding high on adrenaline, while Al Ahly's morale dipped after conceding the goal. Sensing the advantage, Aymar urged his players to capitalize on Al Ahly's weariness and push for another strike. 

Only five minutes after their second goal, Masango struck again. This time, he picked up the ball and, with dazzling footwork, danced past three Al Ahly defenders. He executed a series of moves—a step-over, a smooth Marseille turn, and a precise croqueta to evade the goalkeeper—before coolly slotting the ball into the back of the net. 

3-1! 

The stands erupted once more as Gazelle FA's fans celebrated their team's unexpected triumph. Across the field, Koller stood with a defeated expression, watching in disbelief as his team, once so confident, struggled to keep up. 

... 

... 

"Cheers!" 

Under the dim glow of the streetlights, more than two dozen people raised their beers in unison, clinking glasses with joyful smiles. Outside the stadium, the lively scene was filled with the energy of young fans, their faces lit up with excitement and pride. 

This is what youth is all about—passion and unyielding spirit. 

"Aymar, you've outdone yourself this time! We beat Al Ahly, the reigning CAF Champions League winners, 3-1! Watching Koller, one of Africa's most respected coaches, look so frustrated was incredibly satisfying!" one of them laughed, his glass raised. 

Aymar chuckled, giving Fernand a friendly pat on the shoulder. "We couldn't have done it without those two perfect passes of yours!" 

Everyone laughed, but there was genuine respect for Aymar's strategic foresight in taking on a team as strong as Al Ahly. 

"By the way, Aymar, what did Koller's assistant want with you after the game?" Henry asked curiously, glancing over at Aymar with raised eyebrows. 

Aymar grinned, leaning back. "He invited me to join Koller's coaching staff. Offered me a two-year contract." 

Stunned silence followed before everyone burst into cheers. 

"That's incredible, Aymar! Joining one of the biggest clubs in Africa, working alongside Koller—it's a huge opportunity, even if it's not in Europe! Imagine the experience, the connections! You could go to Europe after, with Koller's mentorship and the chance to lead a top club," one of his teammates exclaimed, clapping him on the back. 

"Yeah, absolutely! Opportunities like this don't come along every day," another agreed, grinning with admiration. 

Everyone chimed in, offering their congratulations. Only Aymar remained quiet, his expression steady. 

When the conversation settled, he finally spoke. "I turned it down." 

They stared in disbelief. "You… turned it down? Why?" Fernand asked, genuinely shocked. 

Aymar shook his head, taking a deep breath. "I know that for a coach, experience and connections are crucial, especially when aiming for European football. That's why so many players and coaches from renowned clubs have it easier breaking through. But for someone like me, who's never coached at a CAF Champions League level, it's tough." 

He paused, looking out at the lights reflecting off their raised glasses. "But Koller was arrogant. He assumed I'd be desperate for his offer, and even his assistant came over with this condescending attitude. I refuse to work under someone who doesn't respect me or this team. Why would I settle for that?" 

A quiet murmur of agreement rippled through the group. 

"Besides," Aymar continued, "I want to grow right here with this team. I don't see myself staying in Africa forever, but I'm determined to build my experience with Gazelle FA and see how far we can go together. If we can do what we did last season, I believe we can accomplish even more." 

Everyone fell silent, understanding the depth of his conviction. Domestic football had always held its share of struggles and frustrations for them, and Aymar's words resonated with their own hopes for change. 

"And even if things don't go as planned, I'll take my shot in Europe, even if it means starting in a small, unknown league. I'd rather be the head coach of a modest club than an assistant under someone who looks down on me." 

Aymar had always been independent, growing up with a fierce drive to make his own path. His goal of coaching in Europe had been on his mind for some time. He was quietly saving, hoping to go abroad and pursue advanced coaching courses. For now, though, he kept these plans to himself, knowing his parents—both honest, traditional professionals—would worry or try to talk him out of it. 

"Well said, Aymar! You've got the potential to become a top coach one day!" 

"Yes, Aymar, we believe in you! With your tactical mind, you're bound to make a name for yourself, even if it's abroad!" 

"You've got our support, Aymar!" 

Each voice lifted his spirits, the warmth of their encouragement filling him with a renewed sense of purpose. His path had never been easy, and if he hadn't pursued football, he might have settled for a life far from his dreams, struggling to make ends meet. But here, tonight, his teammates' words and their belief in him fueled his determination. 

He looked up at the clear, moonlit sky, feeling a surge of resolve. 

I have to go abroad. I have to make this happen. 

Aymar gazed at the brilliant moon, silently vowing to reach the heights he'd dreamed of, no matter the obstacles. 

... 

... 

That night, Aymar and his teammates celebrated with abandon, the victory fueling their excitement and loosening their inhibitions. He had poured out his frustrations with reality, opening up to his players and the coaching staff. With spirits high, he inevitably drank a bit too much. 

If it weren't for Fernand—who could hold his liquor impressively—helping him home, Aymar might never have made it back to his apartment. 

After Fernand left, Aymar, still riding the buzz from the night, sat down to play Football Manager. He'd downloaded a new scouting tool and was ready to pull an all-nighter. But as midnight passed, the city grew quiet, settling into an eerie calm. Feeling the effects of the alcohol, Aymar soon dozed off, slumped over his computer as the scouting tool continued to install, abandoned mid-process. 

Outside his apartment window, the once-bright moon and stars became shrouded in heavy clouds, darkening the sky. The clouds gathered, rumbling ominously, signaling an impending storm. 

An hour passed, but no rain fell. Instead, the clouds twisted into a swirling vortex above the city. Suddenly, a flash of purple lightning burst from the center, crackling with fierce energy and illuminating the city in an unnatural glow. For a brief moment, everything seemed to hold its breath. 

Then, as quickly as it had formed, the storm dissipated. The clouds drifted away, revealing the calm night sky once more, with the moon and stars shining as if nothing had happened. 

But in Aymar's apartment, in front of his computer, there was an unsettling realization: Aymar, who had just been there, had vanished without a trace.