The League Kicks Off

The sun hung low over Igualada, casting golden hues over the CF Igualada training grounds. The new league season was finally here. After an intense preseason, Daniel and his teammates were ready to take on their first official match in the Under-19 division. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation—this wasn't just another game. This was the beginning of a long, grueling season where every point mattered.

Daniel stood on the pitch during warm-ups, bouncing the ball between his feet. His time-perception powers had improved, but controlling them in high-pressure situations was still a challenge. He couldn't afford to zone out mid-game—one mistake could cost the team points.

Coach Morales paced back and forth, arms crossed, his sharp gaze analyzing every player's movements. "Hoy empezamos fuerte," he called out, his voice firm. "Quiero que cada uno de ustedes recuerde una cosa: cada partido es una final."

Daniel understood bits and pieces of the Spanish, but Miguel, standing beside him, smirked and translated. "He basically said every game is a final. No slacking."

Daniel nodded. He didn't need the translation to know that Coach Morales expected nothing less than a full commitment.

The matchday had arrived. The team traveled to Vilanova i la Geltrú, where CF Vilanova awaited them. The stadium wasn't massive, but the local fans made up for it with energy. Flags waved, chants echoed, and the tension was undeniable.

Daniel started on the bench. He knew this was normal—Coach Morales believed in rewarding performance, not reputation. Miguel, Luis, and some of the senior players took their positions in the starting lineup.

The whistle blew, and the match was underway.

Vilanova came out aggressive, pressing high and forcing Igualada to stay in their own half. Miguel, playing in midfield, fought to control possession, but the opponents were relentless.

15' – Goal for Vilanova. A counterattack caught Igualada off guard, and the home crowd erupted as a Vilanova striker curled the ball past the goalkeeper.

Coach Morales didn't look happy, but he remained calm. "No pasa nada. Respondan," he shouted from the sidelines.

Daniel clenched his fists. He wanted to be out there, making a difference.

34' – Equalizer! Luis scores!

A well-placed cross found Luis in the box, and he buried the ball into the bottom corner. The score was now 1-1, and the momentum shifted.

Halftime arrived. Coach Morales made adjustments, and finally, Daniel was called up. "Carter, vas a entrar. Juega con intensidad."

Miguel patted Daniel's shoulder. "This is your chance, bro. Show what you can do."

Daniel took a deep breath and stepped onto the field.

Daniel's presence changed the tempo of the game. His speed and sharp movement disrupted Vilanova's defense.

Daniel received the ball near the box, faked a shot, and cut inside. He unleashed a powerful strike, but the goalkeeper made an incredible save.

The crowd gasped. Even Coach Morales nodded in approval.

83' – GOAL! Daniel Scores!

A perfect through-ball from Miguel split the defense, and Daniel sprinted forward, controlling the pass with precision. One-on-one with the keeper, he stayed calm and slotted the ball home.

The Igualada bench erupted. 2-1 for CF Igualada!

The final whistle blew, confirming their victory. Daniel was swarmed by teammates.

Sofia, who had traveled with the team, clapped from the stands. She caught Daniel's gaze and gave him a small nod of approval.

It was only the first match, but it felt like the beginning of something bigger.