Chapter 408 Here to improve
In the 75th minute, Hiro spotted a gap in the opposing formation. It was a rather small gap, and it was rather questionable that he'd even reach it. Nonetheless, he had to at least try.
Then he tricked his marker and rushed toward the gap he had spotted at full speed. It wasn't easy to trick his marker who was sticking to him as if he was his shadow. But still with his swift movements, he managed to leave him.
At the same time, Tatsuki who had the ball noticed his run and struck the ball with power and precision toward the designated spot where he was headed.
Opposing players rushed to intercept the pass. And immediately the scene around the field became extremely chaotic.
Despite his attempt, it occurred to him that he wouldn't make it to the ball in time. So, he had to think of something else. He had to think outside the box to reach it.
Noticing the gap between him and the ball, opposing fans became joyous. And a smile formed on many of their faces.
However, the smile on their faces didn't last long.
Stretching his legs, Hiro slid as he tried to control the ball. Let alone control the ball, one might even have difficulty controlling their own body. But, it seemed as if he had no difficulty in doing so. He skillfully controlled the ball, leaving both the opposing fans and opposing players stunned.
Just how good of a control does one need to possess to pull off a trick like that? After witnessing this action of his, none could doubt his abilities.
It wasn't just because of his achievements in the youth league or the popularity that had earned him a spot on the team. But he truly deserved this opportunity, so he was playing here right now.
At this moment, it became crystal clear to everyone watching him that he was here to make a difference and he rightfully deserved to be here.
After controlling the ball, he immediately recomposed himself. Then without losing momentum, he advanced. There were two defenders in front of him, both equally skilled and twice his size.
Since he was a skilled dribbler, he might try to dribble him.
So, he carefully approached Hiro with his guard raised. He had to be prepared if anything unusual were to take place.
Almost at the edge of the box, Hiro encountered the opposing keeper. It wasn't an ideal position for the keeper. But it wasn't ideal for him either. Now, he had only two options; either to shoot or try to dribble him.
Ideally, most players would tend to shoot from here. And, almost all of the young players would do the same too. But, he wasn't going to take the easy way.
He was here to challenge himself. He was here to test himself. So, he had to overcome his fear of missing first if he wanted to improve. He had to take risks. And, only by doing so, would he be able to improve.
So, what if he were to get taken down? Did it even matter? He could improve and try another time. But now if he hesitated to take the risk, he might be able to score but he'd forever be stuck where he was right now.
Kicking the ball with the outside of his foot, he swerved to his left. And, it became obvious to everyone present in the field that he was going to try to challenge the keeper.
You've already proven yourself, so why are you taking this risk? Just shoot the goddamn ball.
Many contorted their face in despair as they watched him trying to take on the opposing keeper. They were worried that he'd fail.
Perhaps if they were winning right now, they'd be cheering on him. But reality was different; they were losing at the moment and they desperately needed a goal to equalize.
His one mistake could very well jeopardize their spot in the league. Winning the previous league championship, they had already qualified for the AFC championship and they had also booked themselves a spot in the Club World Cup 2025.
However, their form as of recent, had been nothing but disappointing.