Chapter 26:
"Stay steady. They'll likely go for an early offensive. Don't get rattled."
As Raúl and Morientes stood in the center circle ready for kick-off, Real Madrid captain Fernando Hierro was loudly instructing his teammates, ensuring everyone was prepared.
"Atlético is dangerous with their opening attacks. Stay calm, don't panic. Move, support each other, and if we lose possession, press immediately. Above all, maintain defensive discipline," Hierro emphasized.
Having played countless derbies, Hierro knew better than anyone what this match meant: life or death—that's a Madrid derby.
Turning to Raúl Bravo and Geremi Njitap on the flanks, he warned:
"Raúl, Geremi, keep an eye on their crosses. Watch out for their wing play."
The mention of Adriano had everyone on edge.
Adriano, who had controversially skipped reporting to Brazil's national team, was a nightmare for defenders. The young Brazilian forward had become a phenomenon, known for his raw power, incredible aerial ability, speed, and footwork.
"Francisco, don't try to muscle Adriano head-on. You'll lose," Hierro cautioned his center-back partner, Francisco Pavón.
Though Pavón was young, at 21 years old, his 1.88-meter frame gave him the physical tools to compete. But Hierro was more concerned about Adriano's intelligence and unpredictability in duels.
"Remember, just run into space and provide an outlet if the midfield's under pressure," Hierro reminded Pavón.
"I've got it," Pavón replied earnestly.
Turning to Celades, Hierro added:
"Watch Deco and Baraja. Those two are relentless runners and will target you. If you're under pressure, pass it back. We'll always be here for support."
The warnings were clear and direct. Yet despite Hierro's leadership, he couldn't shake the unease about the team's mindset heading into this derby.
The Weight of Competition
Hierro was all too aware of the burden of Galácticos.
Superstars like Zidane and Figo undoubtedly elevated the team's quality, but they also created internal conflicts. These new arrivals had pushed long-standing players—and potential talents—to the fringes.
For example, Zidane's role on the left wing and as an attacking midfielder had significantly cut playing time for the likes of Savio, Solari, McManaman, and Munitis.
Munitis, once considered La Liga's most dangerous dribbler, had struggled mightily since his arrival at Real Madrid. Critics often attributed this to tactical mismatches or difficulties adapting, but Hierro knew better.
"The real issue," he thought, "is confidence."
The Mental Strain of Being a Substitute
Players like Celades and Flávio Conceição, once lauded as top-tier midfielders in Celta Vigo and Deportivo La Coruña respectively, now looked like shadows of themselves.
In theory, joining Real Madrid should have been a career pinnacle. In reality, it left many of them trapped in a vicious cycle:
Limited playing time. With stars occupying the key positions, substitutes were only used sparingly.
Pressure to perform. When these players finally got on the pitch, they often overexerted themselves to prove their worth, leading to mistakes or injuries.
Eroded confidence. Poor performances reinforced the coaching staff's reluctance to rely on them, further shrinking their opportunities.
Even substitutes like Flávio, who excelled alongside Mauro Silva in Deportivo's midfield, struggled to adapt to the overwhelming competition within Real Madrid.
"They're not bad players," Hierro mused. "But the club's environment doesn't allow them to flourish."
This relentless pursuit of individual success created a vicious circle of unmet expectations and diminished trust.
The Whistle Blows
As the referee blew the whistle to start the match, Hierro's instructions echoed in his teammates' minds.
But no amount of preparation could have braced Real Madrid for what was about to unfold in the Vicente Calderón Stadium.
The ferocity of Atlético Madrid's opening attack was unmatched.
The First Half: Atlético's Aggression
Atlético's midfield trio of Deco, Xabi Alonso, and Baraja dictated the tempo from the start, pressing high and launching quick transitions.
In the 15th minute, Adriano broke free on the left after an incisive through ball from Vicente. Using his sheer strength to shrug off Pavón, he unleashed a thunderous strike past Casillas.
1-0 Atlético Madrid!
Ten minutes later, Xabi Alonso intercepted a misplaced pass from Celades. Spotting Adriano making a diagonal run, Alonso delivered a perfectly weighted ball over the top. Adriano controlled it with his chest, danced past Hierro, and slotted it into the bottom corner.
2-0 Atlético Madrid!
The Calderón erupted as fans chanted Adriano's name.
Real Madrid's Response
Real Madrid struggled to regain composure. Raúl and Figo attempted to rally the attack, but the cohesion wasn't there. Without Zidane or Makelele to stabilize the midfield, their efforts fizzled out against Atlético's robust defense.
In the 38th minute, Joaquín tore down the right wing, beating Geremi with a dazzling piece of skill. His pinpoint cross found Adriano, who rose above Pavón and headed it into the net.
Hat-trick for Adriano! 3-0 Atlético Madrid!
Halftime: Silence in the Madrid Dressing Room
As the players walked into the locker room, Hierro's worst fears had come true. Adriano had torn through their defense like a wrecking ball.
Del Bosque sat silently, visibly shaken. The challenge now wasn't just tactical—it was psychological. Could Real Madrid regroup and salvage some pride in the second half?
This dilemma is common to most football teams: the tension between starters and substitutes. Coaches often work to blur these lines, creating opportunities for all players and fostering a harmonious locker room atmosphere.
But at Real Madrid, this simply didn't work.
When stars like Zidane, Figo, Raúl, and Roberto Carlos were on the pitch, their presence as undisputed starters cast a long shadow. Others knew their roles were secondary.
This was why Del Bosque repeatedly stressed caution before the match. He understood the risks when a team filled with backup players suddenly faced an opponent as formidable as Atlético Madrid.
Fans and media only saw the glittering names on the lineup sheet. They assumed that no matter who started for Real Madrid, the team would always be favorites.
But players like Hierro and Del Bosque knew the reality:
Real Madrid was in trouble.
Kickoff: Atlético's Relentless Pressure
As the referee's whistle echoed across the Vicente Calderón Stadium, Morientes passed back to Raúl, and the derby began.
Immediately, Joaquín and Vicente sprinted forward at full speed. Their move was rehearsed—a calculated opening gambit to disrupt Real Madrid's defense.
Raúl passed the ball back toward the defensive line, aiming to slow the tempo. But Atlético's press was ferocious.
Joaquín and Vicente closed in, forcing Hierro to act. Sensing danger, Hierro shifted the ball right, aiming for Figo.
But Vicente adjusted his run, closing in on the Portuguese winger, while Deco charged to double-team him.
Figo barely had time to control Hierro's pass before Deco intercepted, deflecting the ball out for a throw-in.
The Calderón erupted as fans roared their approval for Atlético's intensity.
Figo Stifled on the Right
Geremi hurriedly took the throw-in, aiming to find Figo once more. But by the time Figo received the ball, two Atlético players were already marking him: Deco and Evra.
Evra, though smaller in stature, was relentless, pestering Figo with swift movements and tight marking. Deco, always lurking, picked his moment to poke the ball away.
With no time to react, Figo lost possession again.
Atlético Seizes Control
Geremi recovered the loose ball and launched a long pass forward, aiming for Morientes. However, Xabi Alonso and Morientes collided while contesting the ball, neither managing a clean touch.
Behind them, Carvalho rose high and headed the ball back into midfield, where Baraja controlled it and immediately passed to Deco.
Deco surged forward, threading a precise pass to Adriano, who used his strength to shield the ball from Pavón.
With a deft header, Adriano laid it off to Joaquín, who flicked the ball back into the path of Adriano's forward run. The Brazilian striker burst between Hierro and Pavón, forcing Real Madrid's defense into a desperate chase.
Adriano's acceleration carried him down the left channel, narrowly avoiding being forced out of bounds by Pavón and Geremi. At the edge of the penalty area, Adriano whipped a cross into the box.
But no Atlético player was there to meet it.
The ball rolled harmlessly across the goalmouth, prompting groans from the Atlético faithful.
Yang Hao's Tactical Adjustments
"Stay calm and reset. Let's go again!" Yang Hao shouted from the sidelines.
He gestured for Xabi Alonso to push further up the pitch. "Press higher! Keep them under pressure!"
Atlético's high press was now fully in effect. Real Madrid's players found themselves isolated and outnumbered at every turn.
Real Madrid Struggles to Build from the Back
When Casillas attempted to play short passes to his defenders, Atlético's forwards swarmed the backline, cutting off passing lanes.
Joaquín's pressing was particularly effective. He ran clever routes that forced Casillas into uncomfortable positions, limiting his options.
With no safe outlets, Casillas resorted to a long punt downfield.
At the halfway line, Marchena rose to win the header, nodding the ball into the path of Baraja. Another Atlético attack began.
Yang Hao, pacing the touchline, clapped his hands. "Good! Keep it up! Push higher!"
He knew that disrupting Real Madrid's rhythm early was crucial. If Atlético could dominate the opening exchanges, they could seize control of the match.
The First Shot
In the third minute, Real Madrid finally managed to advance the ball into Atlético's half. McManaman carried it down the left flank but was quickly dispossessed by a combination of Baraja and Maicon.
The Brazilian right-back immediately launched a counterattack, combining with Joaquín to send a diagonal pass into the penalty area.
Hierro attempted to intercept, but Adriano's positioning was perfect. The striker received the ball near the penalty spot and fired a powerful shot with his weaker right foot.
The effort lacked precision and sailed wide, drawing frustrated sighs from the crowd.
Yang Hao Remains Composed
Yang Hao shouted from the sidelines, "Good effort! Reset and focus! We're getting closer."
He continued to direct his midfielders to push higher and apply pressure.
Early Warning Signs for Real Madrid
By the 10th minute, the pattern of the game was clear. Atlético's relentless pressing and quick transitions were causing chaos in Real Madrid's defensive structure.
The Galácticos, fielding a makeshift lineup, struggled to cope with the intensity of Atlético's play.
"Real Madrid is in trouble," one commentator observed. "If they don't adapt quickly, this could turn into a very long night for them."
Yang Hao, meanwhile, had no intention of letting up. From the touchline, his voice boomed:
"Let's sink this Galáctico ship!"
As the match progressed, Real Madrid struggled to break through Atlético's midfield line.
Their primary tactic of advancing via the flanks was met with intense pressure. Maicon and Evra were relentless in their challenges, while Baraja and Deco frequently shifted wide to offer support. This defensive coordination stifled Madrid's wingers, leading to multiple turnovers by McManaman and Figo.
7th Minute: Adriano's Goal
In the 7th minute, Evra dispossessed Figo near the halfway line. Vicente swiftly collected the ball and sent a precise pass forward to Adriano, who dropped deep to receive it.
Adriano laid the ball back to Deco and immediately turned to sprint into the open space behind Madrid's defensive line.
Deco, perfectly positioned between Helguera and Celades, wasted no time. He delivered a perfectly-weighted over-the-top through ball, bypassing Real Madrid's defense entirely.
Adriano, using his pace and strength, shrugged off Pavón and brought the ball down with a deft touch just outside the box.
As Casillas charged forward to close the angle, Adriano calmly slotted a low shot past him into the bottom left corner.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"
"Adriano strikes! Atlético take the lead!"
The stadium erupted as Atlético Madrid fans roared in unison. In just seven minutes, the home side had drawn first blood against their fierce rivals.
"This is Adriano's second shot of the game—and he's made it count!" the commentator exclaimed.
"The partnership between Adriano and Deco has been phenomenal this season. A beautiful one-two exchange has broken the deadlock."
A Deafening Celebration
The Vicente Calderón Stadium trembled as 50,000 Atlético fans leapt to their feet, screaming and chanting.
On the sidelines, Yang Hao clenched his fists, punching the air in triumph. He strode to the edge of the technical area, shouting the names of Adriano and Deco as his players celebrated the opener.
"This is just the beginning!" he hollered. "Push harder! We're not done yet—crush them!"
As Adriano and his teammates jogged back to their positions, they stopped to high-five and embrace their coach.
"Brilliant work, Adriano!" Yang Hao praised, giving the striker a playful slap on the cheek. "Keep it going!"
Real Madrid's Struggles Continue
Following the opening goal, Real Madrid failed to find their rhythm. Their midfield looked disjointed, rushing passes and making uncharacteristic mistakes.
In the 12th minute, Celades lost the ball to Baraja, who quickly initiated a counterattack by passing to Joaquín on the right flank.
17th Minute: Joaquín's Genius Assist
Joaquín collected the ball near the halfway line and immediately sprinted forward, charging down the right channel. Helguera moved to close him down, while Hierro positioned himself to intercept.
But Joaquín was relentless.
He feinted to slow down, then accelerated past Helguera with a burst of speed.
As he approached the edge of the box, Hierro and Pavón converged, attempting to box him in.
"Surely, he'll pass now," the commentator speculated.
But Joaquín had other plans.
With a delicate poke of the ball between the two defenders, Joaquín slipped through their legs and surged into the penalty area, leaving the defenders flat-footed.
Casillas rushed out to meet him, but Joaquín, with a quick glance to his left, calmly squared the ball to the unmarked Vicente, who tapped it into the open net.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!! VICENTE!!!"
"2–0 TO ATLÉTICO MADRID!"
"Joaquín! Simply magnificent!"
"He dribbled through not one, not two, but THREE Real Madrid defenders before delivering the perfect assist to Vicente."
The Calderón Erupts Again
The stadium exploded with noise once more. Fans were on their feet, waving scarves and chanting Joaquín's name.
"This is the kind of talent that makes fans dream," the commentator gushed.
For Atlético fans, it was a moment of vindication. Joaquín represented a new era—one where Atlético could produce and retain world-class players without losing them to Real Madrid or Barcelona.
Yang Hao's Tactical Masterclass
Yang Hao applauded Joaquín's effort but noted a lingering issue.
"Great run, Joaquín," he muttered to himself, "but you held the ball a bit too long."
He refrained from criticizing the player during the match. There would be time later to address these small adjustments. For now, he wanted to nurture Joaquín's confidence.
"When the team is winning, that's when you reinforce their strengths," Yang Hao thought. "Let him enjoy this moment."
Madrid Left Shell-Shocked
Real Madrid's defense, anchored by veterans like Hierro, was left exposed. Despite their star power, the team was visibly struggling with Atlético's pace, intensity, and cohesion.
"Madrid can't seem to cope with Atlético's high press," the analyst observed. "If this continues, they're in for a long night."
Atlético's Relentless Push
With the crowd firmly behind them, Atlético Madrid showed no signs of slowing down. Joaquín, Vicente, and Adriano continued to terrorize Real Madrid's defense, while Deco and Baraja orchestrated play from midfield.
Yang Hao stood on the sidelines, barking instructions and urging his players forward.
He knew there was still much work to be done—but tonight, the Calderón belonged to Atlético.
"Keep pressing! Put more pressure in midfield! Push up, push up!" Yang Hao shouted loudly from the sidelines.
He could clearly see that Real Madrid was completely disoriented, their rhythm broken.
Yang didn't fully understand what had gone wrong with Madrid tonight, but it was obvious they were disjointed. The midfield, in particular, seemed chaotic, with players struggling to link up.
McManaman had been dispossessed multiple times, Figo also lost the ball frequently, and Celades' passing was hesitant and indecisive.
Helguera was trying his best, but a single player couldn't hold back Atlético's relentless midfield.
Celades, a technical player, lacked the physicality for the high-pressure game Atlético was deploying. Yang Hao noticed this and called out to Baraja, signaling for him to apply even more pressure on Celades.
The captain nodded in understanding.
Real Madrid Attempts to Regain Control
After conceding the second goal, Madrid's head coach Vicente del Bosque adjusted the team's tactics. He signaled for the players to fall back and stabilize.
The fast-paced, high-intensity game clearly did not suit Madrid.
Del Bosque's squad preferred a more measured, possession-based style, relying on individual brilliance and intricate passing to break down defenses.
But Atlético's game plan—aggressive pressing and quick transitions—had thrown Real Madrid completely off-balance.
Within just 20 minutes, Atlético had scored two goals and was showing no signs of slowing down.
Del Bosque hoped to slow the game's tempo, allowing his players to catch their breath and regain composure.
A Weak Link in Celades
"Celades isn't performing well tonight," assistant coach Toni Grande remarked. "Atlético is targeting him, especially with Baraja pressing so aggressively."
Del Bosque rubbed his mustache, his gaze fixed on the field. Yang Hao's tactics were painfully clear: neutralize Celades, disrupt Madrid's midfield, and dominate possession.
If Zinedine Zidane were on the field, it wouldn't have been such a problem. Zidane's ability to receive the ball and dictate play under pressure would have provided an outlet.
But with McManaman and Raúl unable to hold the ball effectively, Real Madrid's reliance on Celades to organize the midfield became their Achilles' heel.
Even more concerning was Celades' eagerness to prove himself. His overambition, combined with Atlético's relentless pressing, resulted in multiple errors.
"It's exactly what I was worried about before the game," Del Bosque muttered.
Using Guti instead of Celades was an option, but Guti's defensive abilities were questionable. Deploying him in a deeper role might leave Madrid even more exposed. And Del Bosque wasn't willing to gamble on a derby match.
Atlético's Midfield Control
In stark contrast, Atlético's midfield—anchored by Xabi Alonso—was steady and composed.
Although Raúl tried to press Xabi Alonso, the young midfielder rarely lingered on the ball. His efficient one-touch passing kept the game flowing and bypassed Madrid's pressing.
Celades, on the other hand, often attempted to dribble or push forward, only to be dispossessed or forced into a rushed pass.
The difference between the two players was glaring.
Madrid's Frustration on the Flanks
With the central channels effectively shut down, Madrid turned to their flanks, particularly the right side, where Luis Figo was tasked with leading the attack.
But Atlético had anticipated this. Both Evra and Deco closely monitored Figo, ensuring he had little room to maneuver.
Patrice Evra, in particular, was relentless.
Despite being shorter and physically weaker than Figo, Evra's tenacity, quickness, and incessant challenges frustrated the Portuguese star.
To Figo, it felt as though Evra was glued to him, constantly nipping at his heels and disrupting his rhythm.
Even when Figo managed to draw fouls, they were often in non-threatening areas, providing little relief for Madrid.
Figo Loses His Cool
In the 30th minute, Raúl played a diagonal pass into Atlético's defensive half, hoping to release Figo.
Figo sprinted forward but was immediately blocked by Evra, who used his body to shield the ball, guiding it out of play.
Frustrated, Figo shoved Evra from behind, sending the Frenchman stumbling off the pitch.
The referee blew his whistle sharply, jogging over to brandish a yellow card for Figo.
The Vicente Calderón Stadium erupted with jeers, the home crowd reveling in the moment.
Figo angrily gestured at the referee, pointing out how many fouls he had endured without adequate calls.
"He's diving!" Figo shouted, pointing at Evra.
Real Madrid's captain Raúl quickly intervened, pulling Figo away before he risked a second booking.
Atlético's Confidence Soars
While Figo fumed, Evra casually dusted himself off and returned to his position.
He wasn't faking—Figo's push had genuinely knocked him off balance—but he knew the yellow card was a victory.
"Nice work, Patrice!" Yang Hao's voice rang out from the sidelines.
Evra turned and grinned at his coach, nodding firmly.
In that moment, the yellow card didn't matter. What mattered was that Atlético was winning the psychological battle.
Madrid's Growing Desperation
As the first half wore on, Madrid's frustration grew.
The Galácticos were visibly shaken, unable to cope with Atlético's intensity and cohesion.
For the Calderón faithful, every misplaced Madrid pass and failed attack was met with deafening cheers.
Yang Hao, pacing the sidelines, exuded confidence. His plan was working to perfection.
With Madrid unraveling before his eyes, he shouted a final rallying cry to his players:
"Don't let up! They're cracking—finish them!"
In the 34th minute, Figo once again attempted to dribble past Evra on the right flank, only for the Frenchman to intercept the ball with a well-timed challenge.
Figo quickly regained possession, but Deco joined Evra in closing him down, trapping him near the sideline. With no teammates available for support, Figo had no choice but to attempt a back pass to Grémio.
Just as he released the ball, Vicente darted in and intercepted the pass before Grémio could react.
Seeing the opportunity, Evra immediately surged forward, his speed unleashed as he sprinted down the left flank, leaving Figo, who was slow to track back, far behind.
Vicente, meanwhile, tried to take the ball to the byline. As Evra crossed the halfway line, he veered diagonally toward the penalty area, overlapping Vicente's route.
Unable to beat Grémio, Vicente played a quick back pass to Evra.
Helguera closed in immediately, but Evra controlled the ball with his left foot, used his arm to shield it, and, spotting Adriano's movement, sent a precise pass to the Brazilian forward.
Inside the penalty area, Adriano moved horizontally to position himself in front of Pavón, using his powerful frame to shield the ball.
The moment they made contact, Pavón finally understood why Hierro had repeatedly warned him not to go head-to-head with Adriano—the Brazilian was a physical powerhouse.
Adriano barely leaned into him, yet Pavón had to summon all his strength just to hold his ground.
He had faced many opponents in both La Liga and youth competitions, but none compared to this.
As Pavón struggled to maintain his balance, Adriano took Evra's pass with his left foot, nudging it toward the left side of the penalty area.
The instant Pavón felt a brief sense of relief, a surge of danger swept over him. Reacting instinctively, he lunged to block the next move, but he was too late.
Adriano turned and unleashed a thunderous left-footed shot.
The ball rocketed off his foot, a cannonball of power and precision, skimming the left post as it smashed into the back of the net.
"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"
"A BRACE FOR ADRIANO!"
"ATLETICO LEADS 3–0 OVER REAL MADRID!"
The commentator's voice was nearly drowned out by the deafening roars of the Calderón Stadium.
"It's unbelievable! The Real Madrid team that has been unbeaten in 18 matches across La Liga and the Champions League—boasting 11 consecutive league wins—is now trailing 3–0 in the first half at the Calderón!"
On the sidelines, Yang Hao leapt into the air, punching the sky as he roared in celebration.
Adriano and his teammates rushed toward the bench in sheer ecstasy, embracing each other as the crowd erupted in euphoria.
The Calderón was in absolute pandemonium.
Over 50,000 Atlético fans screamed at the top of their lungs, scarcely believing their eyes.
The Galácticos, a team that had dominated the season thus far, were being humiliated in a devastating display of Atlético's supremacy.
Down 3–0 before halftime, it felt less like a derby and more like a massacre.
A Shift at Halftime
The first half ended with Atlético relentlessly attacking but unable to extend their lead further.
At halftime, Del Bosque made critical adjustments:
Guti replaced Morientes, pushing Raúl forward as the lone striker.
Munitis came on for McManaman, whose underwhelming performance left little reason to keep him on the pitch.
The intention was clear: bolster midfield creativity and regain control.
The changes bore fruit early in the second half, as Guti's introduction added much-needed composure and vision to Madrid's midfield. His incisive passes began to unlock spaces, and Munitis' energy on the flanks added dynamism.
However, the shift also revealed Madrid's vulnerabilities:
With Raúl isolated against Carvalho and Marchena, Madrid lacked a true focal point in attack. Raúl's strengths lay in his intelligent movement, not in battling physically imposing defenders.
Madrid's most dangerous chance came in the 58th minute when Guti delivered a sublime through ball to Raúl. The striker deftly flicked the ball over Carvalho at the edge of the box but was brought down before he could advance further.
Chaos ensued.
Madrid's players clamored for a penalty, while Atlético vehemently protested that the foul occurred outside the box.
Yang Hao, ever the showman, shouted from the sidelines with brazen conviction:
"It's a dive! A blatant dive!"
The fourth official shot him an incredulous look, his expression practically saying: You're lucky it's not a penalty—how are you calling this a dive?
In the end, the referee awarded a free kick just outside the area.
Raúl's attempt, however, struck the wall, leaving Madrid's frustration to mount.
Adriano's Hat-Trick
The decisive blow came in the 76th minute.
As Atlético pressed high near midfield, Baraja dispossessed Celades with a crunching tackle. The initial counterattack was halted, but the ball fell to Xabi Alonso, who launched a pinpoint diagonal pass to Vicente.
Vicente, shaking off Grémio, cut inside and laid the ball off to Deco. Under pressure from Helguera, Deco quickly redirected the ball to Baraja, who had surged forward.
In a stunning one-two with Joaquín, Baraja exchanged passes before receiving the ball near the byline on the right. He whipped a low cross into the box.
Adriano, a man possessed, shrugged off Pavón yet again, meeting the cross with a composed right-footed finish.
"HAT-TRICK!!!"
"ADRIANO COMPLETES HIS HAT-TRICK!"
Raising his arms high, Adriano pointed to the heavens in gratitude, his face a mixture of joy and determination.
The Calderón exploded in celebration.
4–0!
Atlético had utterly dismantled their archrivals, and Adriano had cemented himself as the night's hero.
The Calderón Celebrates
Yang Hao stood on the sidelines, his fists clenched in triumph.
As Adriano and the team returned to the bench, Yang embraced his star striker, patting him on the back with unrestrained pride.
"You've done it, Adriano. You've made history tonight."
The scoreline—4–0—was more than just a victory; it was a statement.
Real Madrid, the Galácticos, had been obliterated by a team fueled by grit, discipline, and an unyielding will to win.
And at the heart of it all was Yang Hao, the mastermind behind Atlético's stunning resurgence.
4–0!
When the curtain fell on the monumental clash at the Calderón Stadium, media and fans worldwide were left stunned.
Marca was among the first to publish a post-match analysis titled: "Unbelievable, but True!"
In its commentary, Marca lauded Atlético Madrid's astonishing performance. From their disciplined defense to their incisive attacks, Atlético displayed a level far superior to Real Madrid throughout the match.
"Yang Hao's pre-match tactics completely nullified Del Bosque's Real Madrid," Marca stated.
"Throughout the game, the Galácticos were unable to dictate play in their usual rhythm. Instead, they were completely shackled by Atlético's relentless pressure."
Marca also highlighted Del Bosque's post-match press conference, where the Real Madrid coach was reluctant to accept full responsibility for the loss. Instead, he pointed fingers at the national team, blaming international call-ups for weakening his side.
"We were missing some of our most important players," Del Bosque argued. "This left us in an awkward position during the match."
The key players he referred to included Zidane, Makélélé, Roberto Carlos, and Cannavaro, as well as the injured Salgado. Marca acknowledged that these absences indeed deprived Madrid of its backbone.
"Half of the starting lineup was unavailable, which undeniably contributed to the loss," Marca conceded.
However, the report didn't shy away from criticizing Real Madrid's uninspired performance.
"This didn't look like a team vying for the league title or one that had achieved 11 consecutive wins and an 18-match unbeaten streak. On the contrary, they resembled cowards, collapsing after a single blow."
Marca concluded, "Real Madrid's streak of 11 straight La Liga victories has come to an end. They must now face this harsh reality—and their despised neighbors."
The defeat narrowed the gap between the two Madrid giants. Real Madrid remained at the top of the table with 33 points, but Atlético's victory brought them up to 29 points, just four behind.
Marca suggested that the league title race was still very much alive, primarily between these two teams. Barcelona, in third place, was far behind with just 22 points, trailing Atlético by seven.
"This is truly astonishing," the report continued, "especially considering that after Atlético's title-winning season, many expected them to be a flash in the pan. The summer sales of midfield maestro Thomas Gravesen and top scorer Walter Pandiani fueled this perception."
"But three months into the new season, Atlético Madrid remains a formidable contender for the La Liga crown."
The paper noted that Real Madrid had missed a golden opportunity to effectively seal the title. Had they defeated Atlético, they could have extended their lead further, and with relatively weaker opponents in the upcoming fixtures, they might have coasted to the winter break with the league virtually wrapped up.
Instead, the defeat at the Calderón brought uncertainty back to the title race.
AS: "We Need 11 Raúls"
In its analysis, AS published an editorial titled: "We Need 11 Raúls."
This article lambasted Real Madrid's disorganized and uninspired performance, calling it their worst display of the season.
"There was no structure, no cohesion in midfield," wrote editor Alfredo Relano.
Relano specifically called out Celades, stating that the Spanish midfielder needed to reflect deeply on his performance.
"As a technical midfielder, his ability to organize and initiate attacks was abysmal—worse even than Helguera's."
Relano expressed disappointment that a player once hailed as the future of Spanish midfielders had failed to live up to expectations.
"Celades was supposed to be Spain's hope in midfield," Relano said. "After excelling at Celta Vigo, Real Madrid signed him with high hopes. But since joining the club, he has consistently failed to deliver."
"On the other hand," Relano noted, "Atlético's young Xabi Alonso demonstrated his potential. His defensive contributions, distribution, and pinpoint long passes outshone Celades in every aspect."
Relano speculated that Celades might see shades of his younger self in Xabi Alonso.
AS also revealed that Florentino Pérez was furious after the match. He reportedly called Del Bosque immediately, demanding an explanation for the humiliating defeat.
"The president is particularly concerned about the lack of spirit displayed by the players," Relano added.
"He believes the recent winning streak has lulled the team into complacency, leaving them overconfident and unprepared for such a critical match."
While AS criticized Real Madrid harshly, it also downplayed Atlético's victory, attributing it to the national team disruptions.
With Zidane, Makélélé, Cannavaro, and Roberto Carlos absent, the report claimed, "This wasn't the real Real Madrid."
Catalan Media Weigh In
Surprisingly, Catalan media took a more objective stance this time.
Sport analyzed the lineups, noting that both teams were significantly affected by international duty.
"Sure, Real Madrid was missing several key players," the report stated. "But what about Atlético? They also lacked key players like Diego Forlán, Simeone, Cambiasso, Lúcio, Aurelio, and Belletti."
"Losing Lúcio, Aurelio, and Belletti—a trio from their defensive line—is as significant as Real Madrid losing Cannavaro."
The report praised Yang Hao's tactics, noting that he had prepared Atlético to adapt seamlessly to the absences.
"When Atlético's regular defenders were unavailable, Evra, Marchena, and Maicon stepped up to deliver."
"This proves that Yang Hao's victory was well-deserved."
International Praise for Yang Hao
The victory garnered widespread acclaim across Europe.
France's L'Équipe declared, "Real Madrid, unbeaten in 18 matches, suffered a complete collapse at the Calderón."
The publication highlighted Atlético's dominance, noting that anyone who watched the match could see that the result was no fluke.
"If anything, Atlético could have scored even more goals had they been more clinical," L'Équipe stated.
"Yang Hao delivered a masterclass in coaching, earning full marks in this high-stakes derby."
Germany's Kicker praised Yang Hao's vision, crediting him as the architect behind Atlético's resurgence.
The article emphasized his commitment to nurturing young talent, even at the cost of early-season struggles.
"From Torres, the youngest goalscorer in La Liga history, to budding stars like Kaká, Cambiasso, Xabi Alonso, and Evra, Yang Hao has built a team brimming with potential."
Kicker noted that Yang Hao's strategy of developing young players not only improved Atlético's depth but also ensured their long-term competitiveness.
"While most title-chasing teams shy away from relying on unproven talent, Yang Hao has managed to integrate youth into his squad seamlessly," the report concluded.
"This is why, despite an early-season slump, Atlético has emerged as genuine contenders on both domestic and European fronts."
Kicker magazine noted that Atlético Madrid's position as second in La Liga, trailing Real Madrid by just four points, was remarkable given the disparity in spending between the two clubs. Moreover, when compared to other teams such as Barcelona, Deportivo La Coruña, and Valencia, "Atlético has performed exceptionally well."
In the Champions League, Atlético topped a group featuring Juventus, Celtic, and Porto to advance to the Round of 16. For a club returning to Europe's elite competition after years of absence, this was already an impressive achievement.
When Atlético last won the domestic double, they reached the Champions League quarterfinals. However, that was during a time when the tournament had only 16 teams in the group stage, making competition less intense than it is now.
Kicker emphasized that Yang Hao's Atlético had already achieved the club's best European campaign in over two decades.
The magazine concluded:
"Yang Hao's Atlético is a revelation. If they maintain their current trajectory, we have every reason to believe that Atlético will undergo a transformation under his leadership, evolving into a powerful emerging force capable of disrupting the current balance of power in European football."
A Star on the Rise: Yang Hao
After the 4–0 demolition of Real Madrid, Yang Hao was the center of attention.
The morning after the game, following the team's recovery session, Yang Hao rewarded his players with a two-day break. However, many of his players, including Edwin van der Sar and Rubén Baraja, had to report back to their national teams.
Faced with this reality, Yang Hao could only shrug and wish them "good luck with your 996 grind."
For his part, Yang Hao seized the opportunity to escape the frenzy. He took his girlfriend to the seaside town of Marbella, rented a yacht, and set off for a much-needed break. His goal was to completely unwind, leaving behind the chaos of football and media for a while.
While he had often written about the pressures of coaching in his past life as a football novelist, Yang Hao admitted that the reality was far more grueling than he had ever imagined.
"The pressure is immense—relentless and heavy, constantly threatening to crush you," he reflected.
Even during this short vacation, he couldn't fully relax, though he did manage to let loose and have some fun. Upon returning to Madrid, however, he was immediately reminded of the pile of responsibilities awaiting him.
Preparing for Winter Training
Atlético's winter break would include a training camp in the Middle East, organized at the suggestion of their sponsor, Emirates Airlines. Additionally, the club had negotiated two sponsorship deals with companies in the region, set to be finalized during the trip. While these deals weren't massive, both exceeded €1 million, making them valuable contributions to the club's finances.
Carlos Leo, Atlético's head of marketing, updated Yang Hao during a meeting at the Calderón:
"We're also in talks with several companies in Japan, South Korea, and North America. Our goal is to finalize these deals by next summer."
Over the past two seasons, Atlético's revenue had grown by an impressive 15% annually. While this was a strong performance, Carlos Leo stressed that building financial stability required patience and consistent progress.
"If we can sustain this growth rate," he said, "just imagine where our revenue will be in ten years."
Yang Hao agreed, acknowledging that the fairytale stories of overnight financial success in football were unrealistic.
Sponsorship Deals and Personal Branding
Beyond the club's finances, Carlos Leo secured Yang Hao a personal sponsorship deal with a Middle Eastern telecom company, offering an annual income of €1 million. All Yang Hao needed to do was pose for some promotional photos.
"That's it? €1 million just for that?" Yang Hao asked in disbelief.
Carlos Leo grinned smugly. "I actually think it's a bit low."
Yang Hao finally understood how celebrities accumulated their wealth so quickly. "If there are more deals like this, let me know—I'll take a dozen! Who needs coaching when I can just live off ads?"
While discussing club matters, Yang Hao also brought up a personal project—his startup, LINE.
Balancing Coaching and Entrepreneurship
Yang Hao admitted that managing the messaging app LINE had become a massive headache. As the platform's user base grew, so did the demands on its servers, requiring constant investment in infrastructure.
"The cost of maintaining the servers alone is astronomical," Yang Hao explained.
Between managing Atlético and handling LINE's operations, Yang Hao was stretched thin. He realized that his initial vision of being a hands-off owner was naïve.
In the end, he chose to prioritize football.
"I've decided to bring in venture capital," Yang Hao told Carlos Leo. "I'll step back from day-to-day operations and only focus on big-picture decisions."
Carlos Leo was thrilled. "You've got several investors in the U.S. lined up. This company has huge potential—it could attract the attention of tech giants in a few years."
Yang Hao's strategy was clear: grow LINE with the help of experienced investors and eventually sell it to a major player before larger competitors moved to crush it.
La Liga Resumes: Atlético Faces Valladolid
On November 17, Atlético traveled to face Valladolid in La Liga's 13th round.
Still feeling the effects of international duty and their draining derby victory against Real Madrid, Atlético looked sluggish. Within just nine minutes, Valladolid striker Luis García scored to give the hosts an early lead.
However, Atlético quickly responded. In the 11th minute, Kaká delivered a brilliant assist to Adriano, who slotted the ball into the net to equalize.
The match continued to test Atlético's resilience as they aimed to maintain momentum in the title race.
The End of the First Half and Narrow Victory
In the final minutes of the first half against Valladolid, Xabi Alonso assisted Rubén Baraja, who had just returned from international duty, to score again, giving Atlético a 2–1 lead.
Atlético ultimately secured the win with a hard-fought 2–1 victory in Valladolid.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid hosted Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu. The match was anything but easy for Los Blancos. It wasn't until the final minutes of the first half that Morientes broke the deadlock. Early in the second half, Morientes scored again, with both goals coming from Zidane assists.
Real Madrid's 2–0 victory over Sevilla reignited confidence in their camp.
Media Reactions and Madrid's Justifications
Real Madrid's media allies celebrated the win, with many declaring it proof that the defeat in the Madrid derby was an anomaly caused by the absence of key players due to international duty.
Zidane, Makelele, Cannavaro, and Roberto Carlos had returned, and with them, Real Madrid appeared dominant once more.
"If they had played in the Calderón, the derby victory would have been ours!" wrote AS columnist Óscar.
Yang Hao was unfazed by such remarks. At the post-match press conference following Atlético's win over Valladolid, he made his stance clear:
"I never indulge in pointless hypotheticals."
"Fine, let's accept their argument—then why don't we just take back that 4–0 victory, shall we?"
"Talk all you want; it won't change the fact of what happened on the pitch. So, cut the nonsense!"
As expected, Yang Hao's sharp comments drew criticism from Real Madrid's media.
November 20: Champions League Second Group Stage
Atlético Madrid's first match in the second group stage saw them travel to Italy to face Roma.
Given the high intensity of the first group stage, Yang Hao approached this match cautiously. Similarly, Fabio Capello's Roma adopted a conservative strategy.
Roma Lineup
Goalkeeper: Antonioli
Defense: Aldair, Samuel, Zebina
Midfield: Candela, Tommasi, Emerson, Lima, Cafu, with Totti in the playmaker role.
Forward: Batistuta.
Capello's Roma, reigning Serie A champions, were known for their strength, particularly down the flanks, with Candela and Cafu shining brightly. The team also featured legends like Batistuta and Totti, as well as the imposing Samuel in defense.
A Slow and Tactical Game
From the start, Roma played cautiously. Candela and Cafu dropped deep, forming a five-man defensive line. Samuel and Zebina were tasked with neutralizing Adriano, which limited Atlético's attacking opportunities.
Though Atlético relied on their speed and technical skills to break through, Roma fouled tactically in dangerous areas, disrupting their rhythm.
By the 10th minute, Atlético had already earned four free kicks in advanced positions, but none resulted in goals.
Roma's most dangerous moment came in the 42nd minute when Cafu delivered a cross to Batistuta. The striker evaded Lucio and shot with his left foot, narrowly missing the left post.
At halftime, Capello replaced Cafu, who had recently returned from injury, with Assunção, Marcos Senna's cousin. This substitution bolstered Roma's midfield control, making it harder for Atlético to mount attacks.
Despite dominating possession and tempo, Atlético struggled to penetrate Roma's defense. Capello's team was content to defend deep and rely on Totti and Batistuta for counterattacks, though these efforts rarely threatened.
The match ended in a goalless draw.
Post-Match Reactions
Yang Hao expressed mild frustration with the result:
"We came here to win. We controlled the game and deserved three points, but we'll take the draw."
He also criticized Roma's approach:
"Capello was reportedly furious in the dressing room? He should be. With the talent Roma has, they could have played a much more engaging game, but instead, they chose the most passive route."
Capello, however, seemed unbothered by the criticism, stating in his press conference that he and his team were satisfied with the draw.
Group Dynamics After the First Round
Elsewhere in Atlético's group, Bayern Munich hosted Manchester United in a similarly cautious affair that ended 1–1. Yang Hao noted that this group stage, with its six grueling matches, was more about survival than spectacle.
The strategy seemed clear: avoid losing first, then target wins later.
In another standout match, Real Madrid visited Sparta Prague. Despite their star-studded lineup, Real Madrid could only manage a 2–2 draw.
Sparta Prague's 19-year-old goalkeeper, Petr Čech, was the standout performer, earning Man of the Match honors after delivering a series of breathtaking saves.
The Rise of Petr Čech
Čech, who had been loaned to Sparta Prague by Atlético, continued his stellar form. Earlier in the season, he had helped Sparta advance from the first group stage, keeping clean sheets against the likes of Bayern Munich and Feyenoord.
Čech's development was a testament to Atlético's long-term planning. Although Sparta Prague had wanted to purchase him outright, Atlético insisted on a loan deal.
Now, as Čech shone on Europe's biggest stage, Atlético seemed poised to benefit from his meteoric rise.
Cech's Rising Star
Even though Sparta Prague conceded two goals to Real Madrid in their Champions League match, Petr Čech's performance was nothing short of spectacular. Spanish media outlets were unanimous in their praise:
"If not for Čech, Real Madrid could have easily scored five."
This match further cemented Čech's growing reputation across Europe.
La Liga Round 14: Atlético 8–0 Las Palmas
After returning from their frustrating 0–0 draw in Rome, Atlético Madrid hosted Las Palmas at the Calderón in Round 14 of La Liga. The frustration from the previous match seemed to fuel an offensive onslaught.
Las Palmas' coach, Fernando Vázquez, had already stated in his pre-match conference that his team would adopt a cautious approach. True to his word, Las Palmas fielded a defensive 5-4-1 formation, essentially parking the bus.
However, this strategy unraveled quickly.
Early Goal: Diego Forlán opened the scoring with a powerful header.
Second Strike: Kaká doubled the lead with a clinical finish after a penetrating run into the box.
At 2–0, Las Palmas tried to regroup but couldn't contain Atlético's relentless attack.
37th Minute: Forlán struck again, securing a brace and extending the lead to 3–0.
Just Before Halftime: Simeone added a fourth with a well-timed shot from deep.
The halftime scoreline, 4–0, left no doubt about the match's trajectory.
Second-Half Madness
The second half began with more fireworks.
50th Minute: Forlán capitalized on a rebound to score his third, completing a hat trick and making it 5–0.
73rd Minute: The Uruguayan was unstoppable, scoring his fourth goal. By this point, coach Yang Hao was preparing to substitute him.
However, before he could leave the pitch:
75th Minute: Forlán unleashed a long-range shot from outside the box, finding the back of the net yet again—his fifth goal of the match. The score was now 7–0.
Even Yang Hao, watching from the sidelines, couldn't believe what he was seeing.
"Did he take something before the match? How is he this unstoppable?"
Final Flourish
Yang Hao substituted Forlán to a standing ovation from the 50,000 fans at the Calderón.
83rd Minute: Fernando Torres, who replaced Forlán, added the final goal to complete the rout: 8–0.
By the end of the match, the Atlético bench was euphoric. Yang Hao himself struggled to process the sheer magnitude of the scoreline:
"We didn't score any against Roma, but now we've scored eight. What's going on here?"
Post-Match Reactions
Las Palmas coach Fernando Vázquez, visibly dejected, joked during his handshake with Yang Hao:
"Do you have a vendetta against us?"
Yang Hao responded with a laugh:
"It's just an accident, I promise!"
La Liga Shockwaves
The 8–0 demolition sent shockwaves through Spanish football. Yet, many other top teams faltered in this round:
Barcelona: Lost 1–2 at home to Athletic Bilbao, falling further out of the title race.
Valencia: Lost 0–2 away to Real Sociedad, slipping further down the table.
Deportivo La Coruña: Suffered a shocking 1–4 defeat at Mallorca.
Deportivo coach Javier Irureta blamed the midweek Champions League clash against Arsenal for the team's fatigue:
"We gave everything against Arsenal, and the toll was evident in this match."
Steady Real Madrid
Meanwhile, Real Madrid continued their resurgence with a convincing 3–0 victory over Rayo Vallecano. Since their defeat to Atlético, Los Blancos had rebounded with back-to-back league wins.
The media was quick to trumpet Madrid's recovery. AS wrote:
"This is the Real Madrid we know—a team poised to dominate La Liga until the end."
Yang Hao's Mindset
Despite Real Madrid's form, Yang Hao remained focused. Speaking to his players in a team meeting, he said:
"Our focus should always be on ourselves. If we win the matches we're supposed to, it doesn't matter what Madrid does. I don't believe they can win every single match."
La Liga Round 15: Narrow Escape in Bilbao
With a midweek Champions League match against Bayern looming, Yang Hao rotated his squad for their away game against Athletic Bilbao.
Early Shock: Bilbao scored within three minutes, putting Atlético on the back foot.
Despite dominating possession, Atlético struggled to break through the Basque team's defense.
Yang Hao introduced Adriano and Forlán as a strike duo in the second half, a move that finally paid off.
Second-Half Goals:
Adriano equalized with a well-placed shot.
Forlán netted the winner, completing a tense 2–1 comeback victory.
A Tough Round for Other Contenders
Other La Liga heavyweights continued to struggle:
Barcelona: Lost 0–2 away to Alavés, compounding their miserable season.
Valencia: Drew 1–1 with Mallorca at home, falling further behind in the title race.
Deportivo: Lost 0–1 to Espanyol, a result that shocked many.
Real Madrid Marches On
Real Madrid hosted Osasuna in a match that was far from straightforward. Despite taking an early 2–0 lead, they were put under pressure late in the game but managed to secure a 2–1 win.
AS jubilantly declared:
"The unbeatable Real Madrid is back!"
Yang Hao, hearing of the headline, scoffed:
"They're quick to cry foul when things go wrong and even quicker to boast when they win. Ridiculous."
December 5th, Vicente Calderón Stadium, Madrid.
The second matchday of the Champions League second group stage saw Atlético Madrid hosting Bayern Munich.
The second half began with Bayern Munich sensing an unprecedented storm of pressure from Atlético.
Already leading 1–0 thanks to Adriano's goal in the first half, Atlético came out in the second half brimming with confidence, turning their home ground into a fortress of relentless attacks.
49th Minute: Baraja unleashed a long-range shot that rattled the crossbar, narrowly missing a second goal. Bayern had the crossbar to thank.
53rd Minute: Vicente broke down the left wing, outpacing Sagnol to deliver a pinpoint cross. Adriano rose above Kuffour and Robert Kovač to head the ball toward the goal, only for Kahn to miraculously tip it away.
Atlético's attacks kept coming. Every move, every pass seemed to push Bayern further back.
Bayern Under Siege
Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld was visibly tense, pacing the sidelines and shouting instructions to his players:
"Compress the midfield! Stop giving them so much space!"
"Apply more pressure; don't let them pass so easily!"
"For heaven's sake, tighten up! This is bad!"
Bayern's fullbacks, Sagnol and Lizarazu, were overwhelmed by Atlético's relentless attacks.
"We faced them in the Super Cup earlier this season, but this Atlético feels completely different," thought Hitzfeld.
By the 55th minute, Hitzfeld was forced to make changes. Veteran midfielder Stefan Effenberg, just returning from injury and struggling to cope with Atlético's high tempo, was substituted for Thorsten Fink. Bayern now deployed a double-pivot in midfield to stem the tide.
Atlético's Relentless Pressure
Despite Bayern's defensive adjustments, Atlético maintained control, dominating possession and dictating the game's pace.
Bayern's first real shot on target came in the 74th minute—a testament to Atlético's suffocating control throughout the second half.
Hitzfeld finally breathed a sigh of relief when his team managed to weather the onslaught. As the clock ticked on, Atlético's intensity began to wane due to fatigue. Yang Hao shifted tactics, slowing the tempo and focusing on maintaining their one-goal lead.
Late Game Drama
Both teams settled into a rhythm: Atlético focused on possession, while Bayern played long balls to their substitute striker, Carsten Jancker, hoping to capitalize on his aerial presence.
Although Bayern's strategy created a few nervy moments, Atlético's defense, led by Lucio and Carvalho, held firm.
As the match entered stoppage time, Atlético looked poised to secure a vital win. However, disaster struck in the second minute of added time.
90+2 Minute: A seemingly innocuous cross from Salihamidžić found Jancker.
Lucio, who had been stellar all night, misjudged the interception.
Jancker pounced, firing a powerful shot that Van der Sar parried brilliantly.
But lurking in the box was Giovane Élber, who capitalized on the rebound, ghosting past Carvalho to slot the ball into the net.
1–1.
The Calderón fell silent.
Heartbreak in Madrid
For over an hour, Atlético had dominated, leading in every statistical category except fouls and defensive clearances. Yet, one critical mistake cost them two points.
Lucio's lone error overshadowed an otherwise flawless performance, allowing Bayern to escape with an undeserved draw.
Post-Match Reactions
The contrast in reactions was stark:
Atlético Fans: Gutted by the late equalizer, many were left in stunned silence.
Bayern Bench: Celebrated the draw as though it were a victory.
In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao didn't mince words:
"We controlled the game, created chances, and dominated every aspect. It's unfortunate that one lapse cost us."
"Bayern are an experienced team; they capitalized on their one clear opportunity. That's football."
Hitzfeld, on the other hand, praised his team's resilience:
"Atlético are a phenomenal side. Their progress since the Super Cup is remarkable. Tonight, we were fortunate to come away with a point."
The Road Ahead
The 1–1 draw left Group B wide open:
Bayern Munich and Atlético Madrid remained strong contenders for the top two spots.
Manchester United and AS Roma, both eager to advance, would also intensify their campaigns in the remaining matches.
Yang Hao's focus now shifted to the next challenge: a visit to Old Trafford to face Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United.
"If Ferguson wants a tactical duel, I'm ready. But if he wants an all-out attack, I'll gladly oblige."
When the referee blew the final whistle, Yang Hao scratched his head in frustration and turned toward the home bench.
Grabbing a water bottle from Paralés, he gulped it down in one go. The cold water helped him cool off, but the disappointment was written all over his face.
The atmosphere on the Atlético bench was somber; every player and staff member exuded frustration.
"It's understandable," Yang Hao thought.
Drawing 1–1 with Bayern at home felt like a missed opportunity. A 0–0 draw in Rome had been acceptable, but this... this was harder to swallow.
Yang Hao walked toward the Bayern bench, a wry smile already forming. From a distance, he called out to Ottmar Hitzfeld, who was also heading over.
"You guys are really lucky."
Hitzfeld, clearly satisfied with the result, couldn't help but smile.
"It's not luck; it's skill," Hitzfeld joked, his grin betraying his lighthearted tone.
Yang Hao wasn't having it.
"Oh, come on. We hit the crossbar and had three golden chances in the second half. If that's not luck on your side, what is?"
Hitzfeld didn't argue, simply nodding along, still pleased with the draw.
"Alright, alright. But hey, I've got to say, Manchester United's attack is something else. Your style against theirs? That'll be a fun one to watch," Hitzfeld teased, slyly shifting the topic.
A True Group of Death
Yang Hao knew what Hitzfeld meant. In their match earlier at Old Trafford, Manchester United had torn apart Fabio Capello's famously defensive Roma, winning 3–1.
Ferguson's revamped United side, powered by the likes of Verón, Beckham, Scholes, Giggs, and Keane, had become a whirlwind of attacking football. Yet, even with that firepower, they had only managed a draw against Bayern in Germany.
The Group B standings now reflected the brutal competition:
Manchester United: 1 win, 1 draw (4 points)
Bayern Munich: 2 draws (2 points)
Atlético Madrid: 2 draws (2 points)
AS Roma: 1 draw, 1 loss (1 point)
Yang Hao chuckled bitterly. "This group really is hell."
Two grueling matches had earned Atlético just two points. Both Bayern and Roma had proven incredibly difficult to break down, with defensive solidity being their hallmark.
And next up? Back-to-back matches against Manchester United. First in Madrid, then at Old Trafford.
Yang Hao realized the stakes: "If we can't take points off United, we might as well kiss our knockout hopes goodbye."
Post-Match Fallout
The media's response to the draw was mixed.
Kicker (Germany): "Luck favored Bayern tonight. Atlético dominated in possession and chances but lacked the finishing touch." The publication warned Bayern to be cautious in their upcoming matches against Roma, noting Capello's defensive prowess.
Marca (Spain): "Kahn saves Bayern!" They highlighted the German keeper's heroics, noting that without him, Atlético could have won comfortably.
AS (Spain): Took a harsher tone, criticizing Lucio's late error that led to Bayern's equalizer.
In the post-match press conference, Yang Hao defended his center-back:
"It's unfair to blame Lucio. He was focused for 92 minutes, and then a single mistake gets magnified. He's one of the best center-backs in the world, and I trust him completely."
Reports later emerged that Lucio had apologized to the team in the dressing room, but Yang Hao and the players had quickly reassured him.
Next Steps: Focus on the League
With the Champions League on hold until February, Atlético turned their attention back to domestic competitions.
In December, the team played three La Liga matches and three Copa del Rey ties:
La Liga:
2–0 home win against Alavés.
2–1 away victory over Celta Vigo, secured by a late winner.
3–1 home win against Villarreal.
Copa del Rey:
A third-round win over a lower-division side.
Two legs against Real Murcia (aggregate 3–0), advancing to the quarterfinals, where Atlético would face Rayo Vallecano.
La Liga Standings Before the Winter Break
After 18 rounds, the standings reflected the dominance of the top two:
Real Madrid: 17 wins, 1 loss (51 points).
Atlético Madrid: 14 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss (47 points).
The gap between the Madrid clubs and the rest was immense:
Deportivo La Coruña: 33 points.
Valencia: 32 points.
Barcelona: 27 points.
The title race had boiled down to the two Madrid clubs.
Controversy: FIFA World Player of the Year
As La Liga paused for the winter break, FIFA announced the winner of the 2001 FIFA World Player of the Year: Luis Figo of Real Madrid.
The decision sparked widespread debate. While Figo had performed well, many questioned whether he deserved the award. Critics suggested that Real Madrid's influence—particularly Florentino Pérez's relentless lobbying—played a role.
The timing was notable: Real Madrid's centenary celebration was set for March 6, 2002. The club had meticulously planned a grand event, including matches, concerts, and exhibitions. Securing the World Player of the Year for Figo added further prestige to their centennial.
Upcoming Challenges
As the calendar turned to 2002, Yang Hao prepared his team for a critical period:
La Liga Round 19: A daunting away trip to the Camp Nou to face Barcelona.
Champions League: Two high-stakes matches against Manchester United in February.
Yang Hao remained resolute:
"If we take care of our business, the rest will follow. We just need to focus on playing our best."
After finishing the 18th round of La Liga, Atlético Madrid hosted a grand Christmas party.
In addition to inviting players and their families, the event welcomed Atlético legends, board members, and prominent fans. Predictably, Yang Hao once again became the center of attention.
Everyone expressed satisfaction with the team's performance this season—except Yang Hao himself.
Under his leadership, Atlético had transformed from a relegation struggler into last season's double winners. This season, they reached the second stage of the Champions League, maintained second place in La Liga, and progressed smoothly in the Copa del Rey. What more could anyone ask for?
The board and management were ecstatic, and even the fans felt they had no room for complaints. When a Catalan media outlet recently conducted a poll on who was the most suitable coach for Barcelona, listing Yang Hao as an option again, Atlético fans erupted in outrage, nearly storming the offices of Mundo Deportivo.
Concerns Amid Celebration
Despite the positive reception, Yang Hao harbored some concerns about the team's future, particularly regarding the upcoming fixtures.
The day after the Christmas party, while the players participated in the club's annual holiday activities—visiting communities, hospitals, and orphanages—Yang Hao convened a meeting with his coaching staff at Majadahonda.
He didn't hold back his concerns:
"If we keep playing the way we are now, we won't make it out of the second-stage group in the Champions League."
Yang Hao's face was marked with worry as he spoke.
Since the match against Bayern Munich, he had been grappling with a strong premonition. Ottmar Hitzfeld had said that Atlético and Manchester United shared similarities, particularly their commitment to attacking football.
"I don't see it that way," Yang Hao countered during the meeting.
He explained that United had far more experience and a superior midfield lineup compared to Atlético.
Manchester United boasted a midfield that included Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Roy Keane, and the newly signed Juan Sebastián Verón—arguably one of the strongest units in Europe, rivaling even Real Madrid.
Verón: A Case Study in Transition and Conflict
In hindsight, Verón's move to Manchester United is often considered a failure. However, few remember how brilliant he was in the early stages of his tenure.
At the time, skepticism surrounded Ferguson's decision to pay a record-breaking £28 million for Verón. Yet, Verón's performances silenced critics, at least initially.
The issues began when Verón's arrival disrupted the established dynamics of the squad. Gary Neville later shed light on this in an interview:
"When you sign a new player, you have to ask: Are they here to strengthen the squad or to replace someone in the starting XI? Verón was a £28 million signing—he had to play. But trying to fit him in meant pushing Scholes further upfield, which disrupted our entire system."
The implications were clear: Verón's hefty transfer fee and wages not only overshadowed the squad's established stars but also marginalized their playing time. This created friction within the locker room.
Ultimately, Verón struggled to fully integrate, partly because the team's core players—dubbed the "Class of '92"—viewed him as an outsider who disrupted their cohesion.
Yang Hao saw parallels between Verón's challenges and Diego Forlán's later struggles under Van Nistelrooy's shadow. "The dynamics of team integration," Yang Hao noted, "are as old as football itself."
The Challenge of Facing Manchester United
Yang Hao expressed his main concern:
"From our match against Bayern, it's clear that our margin for error is far too small."
Atlético's squad was young, lacking the experience needed to adapt to sudden changes during a match. Combined with their aggressive playing style, this made them prone to costly mistakes.
First-phase matches in the Europa League and Champions League group stage hadn't fully exposed these vulnerabilities. However, the intensity of the second-stage matches—against elite teams like Bayern—was on a completely different level.
"We need to make adjustments during the winter break," Yang Hao emphasized. "Otherwise, we'll be in serious trouble against Manchester United, and our chances of advancing will be slim."
His remarks prompted deep contemplation among his staff.
Juanma Lillo acknowledged the challenge:
"We're very young. That's both a strength and a weakness."
Experienced players, Lillo explained, can detect subtle shifts during a match—whether an opponent's stamina is waning, if their tactical shape is unraveling, or when defensive lines are losing cohesion due to fatigue.
"Judging such moments on the pitch requires experience, and that's something we lack right now," Lillo concluded.
Lessons from the Bayern Match
Yang Hao agreed. The late equalizer against Bayern highlighted Atlético's inexperience. An experienced side would have better managed the closing moments, snuffing out any chance of a counterattack.
Drawing from his past-life observations, Yang Hao cited Real Madrid as a prime example of a team with unrivaled experience. Whether under Zidane or Ancelotti, Real Madrid consistently turned games around in pivotal moments.
"At first, people called it luck. But it's not luck when it happens every time."
Madrid's success came from a wealth of experience, which allowed them to:
Weather pressure while waiting for opponents to tire.
Exploit moments of weakness with devastating precision.
Atlético, by contrast, lacked this maturity. "Our players are simply too young to handle those situations effectively," Yang Hao observed.
Winter Break Adjustments
Heading into the winter break, Yang Hao emphasized the need for both tactical and mental preparation.
"We need to be smarter, more patient, and more clinical."
His plan involved:
Tactical Refinement: Adjusting the team's approach to emphasize defensive solidity and controlled aggression.
Experience Development: Encouraging younger players to learn from high-pressure scenarios, even if it meant making mistakes along the way.
With matches against Manchester United looming, Yang Hao knew the stakes couldn't be higher: "If we can't adapt, we're not getting out of this group."
When Manchester United took to the field at Old Trafford against Southampton, their intent was clear: to dominate. Sir Alex Ferguson's pre-match pledge to field his strongest lineup was no empty promise, and his team delivered an unforgettable performance.
Yang Hao, in disguise only by the company of Jessica Alba, quietly observed from the stands, taking mental notes on the strengths and vulnerabilities of the Red Devils, a team Atlético Madrid would soon face in the Champions League.
Manchester United's Lineup
Ferguson fielded his finest:
Goalkeeper: Barthez
Defenders: Phil Neville, Silvestre, Blanc, Gary Neville
Midfielders: Giggs, Keane, Verón, Beckham
Forward Support: Scholes
Striker: Van Nistelrooy
Even key players like Solskjaer, Wes Brown, and Nicky Butt started on the bench, highlighting the depth Ferguson had at his disposal.
A Ruthless Start
The match exploded into life just 43 seconds in. David Beckham's signature long pass perfectly found Ruud van Nistelrooy, who clinically opened the scoring. The Dutch striker's early goal electrified the atmosphere at Old Trafford, setting the tone for a commanding performance.
By halftime, United had stormed to a 3–0 lead, leaving Southampton shell-shocked. Yang Hao, watching intently, noted the precision of United's attacking play, particularly their lethal midfield, which seamlessly transitioned defense into high-octane offense.
However, Yang couldn't ignore the frailties in United's backline. Southampton, though pinned back for most of the half, carved out two solid chances through counterattacks. Headers by Beattie and Tessem hinted at vulnerabilities in United's defense that stronger opponents could exploit.
Second-Half Slaughter
If the first half showcased United's dominance, the second half was a masterclass in relentless attacking football. United poured forward with intent, scoring five more goals, turning the match into an 8–0 massacre.
Old Trafford roared as the home side delivered one of their most comprehensive victories. Van Nistelrooy, Giggs, and Scholes were in sublime form, each contributing to the goal-fest.
Despite the scoreline, Southampton had their moments, creating two significant opportunities in the second half. Beattie, in particular, had chances that exposed United's occasional defensive lapses. Yang Hao noted:
"Southampton didn't lack opportunities; they lacked the quality to capitalize. Players like Adriano or Diego Forlán wouldn't have let those chances go to waste."
Lessons for Atlético
For Yang Hao, this wasn't just a scouting mission—it was an opportunity to strategize. Observing United's strength and weaknesses, he began mentally formulating a game plan for their Champions League showdown.
Key Observations:
Midfield Mastery:
United's midfield quartet—Keane, Beckham, Giggs, and Verón—was their engine, dictating the tempo and creating chances with precision. Breaking their rhythm would be crucial.
Defensive Vulnerabilities:
United's defensive line, particularly Blanc and Silvestre, showed signs of fragility when pressed. Southampton's best moments came from exploiting these lapses.
Transition Play:
United excelled in transitioning from defense to attack, particularly through Beckham's pinpoint long passes. Atlético would need to anticipate and disrupt these transitions.
Open Spaces in Attack:
Ferguson's attacking philosophy often left spaces behind. A well-organized counterattack could exploit these gaps.
The Tactical Challenge
"To beat United, we'll need a blend of caution and aggression," Yang concluded.
The game reaffirmed the need to adapt Atlético's approach. Steady defense, precise counterattacks, and clinical finishing would be essential to withstand and exploit United's high-octane playstyle.
As Yang left Old Trafford, he wasn't just impressed by United's offensive prowess; he was also emboldened by their exploitable weaknesses.
"Ferguson," Yang thought with a smile, "I'll meet your attack with an attack of my own."
After watching Manchester United's game, Yang Hao was certain: their defense had flaws. While not impenetrable, it wasn't weak enough to easily exploit.
If Atlético were to open up and trade attacks, it wouldn't be a one-sided match, but the risks were enormous. United's wealth of experience and their disciplined resilience in chaotic matches would likely give them the edge in an open battle.
As Yang Hao and his girlfriend prepared to leave Old Trafford, they were unexpectedly stopped by a Manchester United staff member.
Face-to-Face with Ferguson
Soon, Yang Hao found himself in Sir Alex Ferguson's office.
"Ah, Sir Alex! Always a pleasure to see you," Yang greeted, beaming.
Though he admired Ferguson deeply as both a predecessor and a legendary figure in football, the Scotsman's sharp, assessing gaze made him feel like he was being interrogated.
"I spotted you the moment you walked in," Ferguson began, his tone calm but piercing.
"Is that so?" Yang chuckled, unfazed. "Well, I happened to be in London for a holiday and heard you were fielding your strongest lineup against Southampton. As your most loyal fan, how could I miss such a match?"
Ferguson's skeptical eyes seemed to say, Do you think I'm that gullible?
Yang, ever the pragmatist, didn't flinch. So what if I'm scouting? Is it a crime to buy a ticket and watch?
Eventually, Ferguson broke into a smile, his demeanor softening. "Don't get the wrong idea, Yang. You're always welcome here."
The Scotsman's sudden shift in tone left Yang Hao on guard. Years of dealing with wily adversaries had taught him to recognize a setup.
"I brought you here because I wanted to share a drink with you," Ferguson said warmly.
Yang couldn't help but grin. This drink was probably intended for Southampton's coach, Gordon Strachan. After all, the Scotsman had played under Ferguson at Aberdeen and had been a teammate at Manchester United in the 1980s.
Regardless, Yang Hao wasn't about to decline an invitation from the legendary manager.
A Conversation Over Drinks
As the two shared a drink, Ferguson shifted the conversation towards the match.
"What did you think of our performance tonight?" Ferguson asked casually.
Yang Hao saw through the tactic immediately. Ferguson was trying to pry insights from him.
"Oh, how could I critique Manchester United in your presence?" Yang said modestly.
"Come now, you must have some thoughts. You wouldn't have come here without gaining something," Ferguson prodded.
"Well," Yang said, pretending to hesitate, "your attacking play is impressive. Van Nistelrooy's efficiency is undeniable—he absolutely deserved that hat-trick. Beckham's crosses were phenomenal as always. And Verón? His quality is evident, though I think he could use a bit more chemistry with the rest of the team."
Ferguson nodded in agreement. "Spot on. That's something we're working on."
With the Scotsman's validation, Yang became more emboldened.
"But your defense…" Yang paused for effect. "Frankly, it's a concern. I still can't wrap my head around why you sold Stam."
The mention of Jaap Stam darkened Ferguson's expression momentarily. It was clear the topic struck a nerve.
Regaining composure quickly, Ferguson chuckled dryly. "You seem to have strong opinions on our defense."
"Well, Sir Alex," Yang said with a grin, "if we, Atlético, were in Southampton's place tonight, the game might have ended 3–3 by halftime. We'd have traded goals for sure."
"Are you planning to attack us head-on?" Ferguson asked, intrigued.
"Playing at home, we'll do everything to secure a win," Yang said resolutely.
Ferguson's eyes narrowed slightly as he leaned forward. "You struggled to convert your dominance into goals against Roma and Bayern."
"And your defense is nowhere near as strong as theirs," Yang countered without hesitation.
Ferguson's laugh was hearty this time. "Fair point. Another drink?"
A Spirited Exchange
As the evening progressed, the conversation grew more candid, with Ferguson subtly probing for more information. Yang Hao, ever the fox, appeared to share freely, even going so far as to describe his aspirations:
"I want to prove to those Spanish journalists who look down on me that Atlético can play thrilling, attacking football, just like the big clubs. What they can do, we can do too."
"Well said!" Ferguson praised, raising his glass.
"Thank you! Another round?" Yang replied enthusiastically.
The expression on Ferguson's face faltered slightly. He hadn't expected Yang to drain his prized stash so quickly.
Still, he couldn't refuse. After all, he was the one who'd extended the invitation.
Noticing Ferguson's reluctance, Yang doubled down, drinking even more heartily. Didn't expect this, did you, old man? he thought smugly. When it comes to coaching, you might have the edge, but drinking? Not a chance.
Watching Yang treat his rare collection like tap water, Ferguson's heart ached visibly.
"This kid," he muttered under his breath, "I'll get you back for this."
END CHAPTER
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