Chapter 170 Direct Dialogue With Ronaldo! The Battle For The Strongest In The World!

With the arrival of the Champions League quarter-finals, football media around the world are focusing on this prestigious competition. Besides the World Cup, only the Champions League boasts such high levels of competition and global appeal.

For many top players, the national team's strength is insufficient, and the World Cup is not always attainable. This is true for players like Bale and Giggs from Wales, Alaba from Austria, Aubameyang from Gabon, and Haaland from Norway. And, of course, Su Luo.

So, the Champions League has become their stage to shine on the global football scene.

Starting from the top 8, every game captures the hearts of fans worldwide. Bookmakers bwin and William Hill have updated their winning odds. Barcelona stands at 2.5 to 1, Real Madrid at 3.4 to 1, Bayern at 6.25 to 1, Paris Saint-Germain at 8 to 1, Atletico Madrid at 21 to 1, and Union Berlin at 25 to 1. Wolfsburg and Benfica are long shots at 81 to 1 and 100 to 1, respectively.

The only wild card is Union Berlin. Though not top-tier, their well-organized lineup has shown they can compete, evidenced by their victories over Manchester City, Juventus, and Arsenal. However, Alex's absence has significantly impacted Union Berlin.

Football media worldwide are analyzing whether Lisandro Martinez, at 175 cm, can withstand Real Madrid's formidable attack. Outlets like "Kicker" and "L'Equipe" suggest strategies such as playing Ake as a central defender or using a three-defender setup with Lima on the left center.

Overall, media analysis remains skeptical of Union Berlin's chances against Real Madrid, particularly their defense. Before, their opponents lacked strong attacking power, but Real Madrid and Barcelona boast top offensive combinations that could exploit Union Berlin's weaknesses.

At the pre-match press conference, Zidane commented, "Even with Alex injured, Real Madrid isn't afraid. We have one of the world's best offensive combinations with the BBC."

Union Berlin's coach, Neuhaus, was unfazed by Zidane's remarks. "The last team boasting about their offensive combination was eliminated by us," he said calmly. "Before facing Arsenal, Wenger praised their Sanchez, Giroud, and Özil... The result? We advanced to the quarterfinals."

Neuhaus hinted that Zidane's team might follow in Arsenal's footsteps. Although Zidane is a novice coach, he is a renowned former player. In contrast, Neuhaus was relatively unknown before this season but has risen in stature with Union Berlin's success, often being named Bundesliga Coach of the Month.

Gazzetta dello Sport aptly noted, "Neuhaus's greatest achievement is discovering Su Luo and maximizing his potential, earning him a place among the world's renowned coaches."

With the first leg of the quarterfinals imminent, both teams made their final preparations. Real Madrid trained at Hertha Berlin's ground, while Union Berlin focused on defending against the BBC combination.

On April 7, 2016, the day of the first leg between Union Berlin and Real Madrid arrived. The previous day, Bayern Munich beat Benfica 1-0 at home, with Thomas Müller scoring the only goal. Despite 80% possession, Bayern struggled to break through Benfica's defense, indicating a weakened state after recent defeats by Union Berlin.

Barcelona won 2-1 against Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou, with Messi contributing a goal and an assist. However, Atletico's away goal leaves the outcome uncertain for the second leg at Calderón Stadium.

Real Madrid's team bus made its way through Berlin, contrasting the modern cityscape with the dilapidated East Berlin. Marcelo, waking up, was confused. "Is this still Berlin?"

Gareth Bale was amazed. "East Berlin looks so run-down. It's hard to believe it's part of a metropolis."

Carvajal, Benzema, and others commented on the scenery. Modric stared out silently, comparing it to his much poorer hometown. Toni Kroos, who had never been to East Berlin, recalled the last time he played against Union Berlin, a 6-4 game that left a lasting impression.

"Su Luo..." Kroos muttered, contemplating the challenge ahead.

There was another person who also thought about Su Luo: Real Madrid's "big brother," Ronaldo.

While his teammates were chatting, he sat silently at the front, arms folded, saying nothing. When the bus stopped at the stadium, Ronaldo finally picked up his bag and stood up confidently.

"Guys, get ready to conquer this field!"

"Iron Alliance! Indomitable!"

"Sing out! Follow the Iron Alliance!"

"We are advancing endlessly from the east of Berlin!"

"Steel Alliance fighting side by side!"

Josephine felt herself swept along in a sea of red, propelled forward by the crowd. But instead of discomfort, she felt a deep sense of security in their unity. The crowd gathered from all directions in East Berlin, all comrades of the same cause!

Uncle Hans, Bud, Hogan, and many other core fans surrounded Josephine. Everyone sang the team song as they marched toward the sacred old stadium!

A small number of tourists and neutral fans who couldn't get tickets saw the continuous flow of red outside the stadium. They were taken aback by the sight, especially the Spanish journalists following Real Madrid. They stared blankly at the fans, their cameras capturing the scene.

A beautiful Spanish reporter smiled nervously. "The home fans in Berlin are truly enthusiastic, just like this team. They are young and impactful. Fortunately, Real Madrid has a wealth of experience in the Champions League and a top-tier lineup. Otherwise, it might be hard to leave this stadium with a victory."

"Who will have the advantage in the first round? The answer will be revealed soon!"

Next to the Spanish reporter was Ma Fanshu, a host from CCTV. For this match against Real Madrid, she finally secured the opportunity to report. CCTV also attached great importance to this "clash of the century," sending a team to Berlin and planning to cover the next game in Madrid. This was the first time a Chinese player was participating in such an important match. Su Luo must feel the support from his homeland!

Ma Fanshu had already made her way into the stadium but still needed to complete her interviews.

"We can see that the Union Berlin fans here are incredibly enthusiastic. They've formed a massive group, and the team songs and cheers are non-stop."

"I feel surrounded by a sea of red!"

"There are also many Chinese students here to support Su Luo."

Ma Fanshu interviewed a few international students holding national flags.

"How does it feel to be here cheering for Su Luo today?"

The students were excited. "When I first came to Berlin, I felt helpless. Thanks to Su Luo, the attitude of those around me has completely changed. I watch every one of Su Luo's games. I hope he can lead Union Berlin to beat Real Madrid today."

A particularly enthusiastic student yelled at the camera, "Su Luo, you're awesome! China is awesome!"

Berlin fans passing by also joined in, shouting, "China is awesome!"

In the locker room, Neuhaus looked at his players. He didn't need to say anything provocative. Despite Union Berlin's recent rise, no one felt intimidated by Real Madrid. Everyone had a look of eagerness on their faces.

Neuhaus sometimes felt his role as head coach was unnecessary; his players could adjust their mentality and had strong self-management skills. The key was having a good captain.

"We've faced many seemingly strong opponents before. They all fell at our feet. This time, Real Madrid will be no exception! Get ready to play! Prove to the world that you are as good as Real Madrid! You are top players!"

On the other side, Zidane was also boosting morale.

"We are the most successful club in the world, destined to be Champions League champions! The opponent is strong, but we are stronger! Let them see the strength of a champion! Hala Madrid!"

"Hala Madrid!" Ronaldo raised his arms and shouted, the veins on his face bulging. He felt an explosive power surging through him.

As they walked out of the tunnel, the first person Ronaldo saw was Su Luo. Their eyes met, and they recognized the fighting spirit in each other.

The world's top three players were finally set for a direct confrontation. The live camera close-ups focused on them, and the entire world was ready to witness this epic showdown.

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