"Campeones"

As the celebrations went on, the Valencia team were eventually led toward the presentation area, where their medals awaited them.

The eyes of some of the Bilbao players were red from crying. They had worked hard and were so close to clinching the title but it had all been for naught because of one boy.

The Valencia players walked up one by one, shaking hands with the Copa del Rey officials with their fans cheering behind them.

At the center of it all stood Fernando Hierro, a Real Madrid legend.

When Izan was wheeled onto the stage, Hierro stepped forward. The Spanish football icon, who had captained Real Madrid and Spain, extended his hand.

Izan shook it firmly, looking up at the legend before him.

"You," Hierro said, smiling, "are special."

Izan, exhausted but still sharp, grinned. "Gracias."

Hierro leaned in slightly, lowering his voice so only Izan could hear.