Chapter 540 World Cup Qualifiers II

540 World Cup Qualifiers II

Amidst the intimidating glare, Hiro walked out of the tunnel like a king unbothered by the stares of the peasant. Seeing such calm composure, Naoto couldn't help but develop feelings of admiration toward Hiro. Just how was he able to maintain such calm against such pressure?

At once as they walked out of the tunnel, they were met with excited cheers from the supporters. They were chanting all sorts of cheerful chants. With a demeanor unlike any other, Hiro followed the queue. "Can you believe, we've got a player who's only sixteen here with us today?"

"Are you talking about the Japanese number 19?"

Previously, Hiro played under jersey number ten due to the absence of Yamada. But since he had returned, Hiro couldn't get the number. So, he chose the number 19. "Takahashi Hiro, I wonder what kind of magic this little magician will show us today? I'm looking forward to his performance, and I'm sure the people in the stadium can agree with me..."

Just as the shrill sound of the referee's whistle echoed, the match commenced. Immediately players of both sides sprung into action. It almost appeared as if he was their mortal nemesis. 17:29

With fluid calculated movement, the Japanese players moved the ball forward. However, almost from the start, many opposing players flocked over Hiro. Their eyes were burning with determination. It was as if they had vowed to stop any ball from finding him. From the get-go, it became evident that the main target of the opposing squad was Hiro. Just what had he done for them to be so invested in him?

It almost appeared as if he was their mortal nemesis. "How could they be so cheap to deploy so many players on a young boy?"

Japanese supporters were enraged by the tactics of the opposing squad. Many had come to witness his brilliance. But it seemed like, they wouldn't be able to see much from him today. Hiro, however, wasn't concerned by their strategy. After all, it wasn't his first time being targeted. Also, the more they focus on him, the more it'll generate opportunities for his teammates. Although it pained him that he wouldn't be involved in the goal contributions. Nonetheless, he wasn't a selfish player who only cared about his personal achievement. As long as the team wins, he will be satisfied. For a while, Hiro struggled to break free from the entrapment of the opposing players. But with his talent, "Shadow Tactician" in motion, he maintained constant pressure on those players who stuck to him. Just the pressure alone was draining the opposing players. Hiro knew that he'd get his opportunity if he persevered. So, he didn't panic despite being targeted by the opposing squad. Like a predator biding its time to hunt the prey, he awaited his moment in the dark while sharpening his fangs. Due to them being so vested in Hiro, it didn't take Japan that long to take the lead. Just within fifteen minutes, Japan took the lead with Minamino's goal. Then again, in the 29th minute, he doubled the lead for Japan. By now, it became clear to the opposing squad that they couldn't solely focus on Hiro. Sure, they had managed to neutralize him until now, but at what cost?