Chapter 374 Japan u17 vs Senegal u17 V
Lost in his thoughts, the opposing coach continued to scrutinize Hiro's every move. It wasn't just about his successful plays; he delved into the depths of his unsuccessful ones too. And, no matter how many times he recalled, it only reaffirmed one undeniable truth— change was needed.
With a decisive nod, he then swiveled on his heel, turning around to face his reserve players. Then, he swept his gaze across his players before barking some orders in a rather serious tone. No sooner had he finished ordering, than some players rose from their seats and started warming up.
It was quite evident that he was going to replace some of his players.
And, witnessing this scene, some of the opposing players felt their heart pounding. Just from a glance alone, they could tell who was going to get substituted. And, none of them wished to exit the game so early.
After a brief moment of celebration, everybody returned to their position to continue the game. Although the Japanese side had taken the lead, the game was still far from over. With more than 50 minutes left, victory remained elusive and the match remained an open canvas awaiting its final strokes.
And, as everybody positioned themselves, the referee's shrill whistle pierced the silence, igniting a flurry of movement from both teams.
Beep!!
With the referee's whistle, players of both teams sprung into action.
Witnessing the changes that were about to take place on the field, opposing players who felt their position threatened could no longer keep their composure as they craved an impact that would stabilize their spot in the team.
If they wanted to remain in the game then they had to deliver. Otherwise, they'd get substituted for sure.
Those threatened players scrambled to prove their worth.
On the sidelines, Manager Haruki was watching the dominating performance of the opposing side with a mix of anxiety and determination. With seconds, remaining on the clock, all he could do right now was to have faith in his players.
After all, only after the halftime whistle would he be able to make some changes.
On the contrary, the opposing coach watched the match with much excitement.The decision to shake up the lineup had ignited a spark in his team and had completely transformed the team to the next level.
But still, he was a bit skeptical about the changes. He still couldn't be sure whether that spark would ignite a blaze of redemption or whither away before it could even salvage his team.
Then just as a powerful long-range shot of Diouf went awry, the referee blew his whistle announcing the end of the first half.
Beep!!
Finally, the Japanese side could take a moment to breathe. Facing the relentless attack of the opposing team had left them utterly exhausted.
And, no sooner had the shrill sound of the whistle resonated, instead of heading to the tunnel, most of them collapsed on the floor, breathing a sigh of relief.
They had persevered and they had successfully managed to defend their lead, despite the reluctance of the opposing players.
Shun's condition was the worst. Completely soaked in his sweat, he appeared out of breath. Well, why wouldn't he look bad? Considering the amount of saves he had made time after time, it was only natural for him to look so beat up.
Looking at the exhausted state of his players, Manager Haruki couldn't help but frown. Though they had managed to defend their lead, it was quite evident to him that the level of most of his players was lacking when compared to the opposing players.
Just like the opposing coach had done to his team, he too had to make some meaningful changes that would give life to this team. Then, while thinking of changes, he turned to look at Taki.