Half-time: the english team's huddle

The players trudged into the locker room, their jerseys damp with sweat and their faces a mixture of frustration and determination. The atmosphere was heavy with the weight of a goalless first half and the missed penalty that could have given them the lead. Elian sat at the edge of the bench, his hands gripping a water bottle as he stared at the floor, replaying the events in his mind. Across from him, David leaned back against the wall, eyes closed, exhaling deeply.

Coach Edward stood in the center of the room, his tall, commanding presence enough to silence the murmurs of the players. His piercing eyes scanned the room, lingering briefly on David, who avoided his gaze, and then on Elian, whose fiery determination was evident even in his stillness.