Chapter 15: The Rival’s Gambit

The victory against Sheffield Borough had lifted spirits at Blackhaven FC, but there was no time to celebrate.

Daisuke barely had a moment to relax before Hana Sakamoto's message reminded him of Collins' latest move.

Sitting in his office, he scrolled through the transfer news.

BREAKING: Ravenshire United Sign Brazilian Wonderkid Felipe Moreira

The 19-year-old attacking midfielder, dubbed "The Next Kaka," had been on Blackhaven's scouting list. Now, Collins had snatched him away.

Daisuke exhaled slowly, his fingers tapping on his desk.

This wasn't a coincidence. Collins wasn't just building his squad—he was deliberately weakening Blackhaven.

The next morning, Daisuke called an emergency meeting with his staff.

Jake Wallace (Assistant Coach): "Moreira would've fit our attack perfectly. What's our backup plan?"

Hana Sakamoto (Analyst): "I've been reviewing players still available. There's a Serbian playmaker, Nikola Stojanovic, who might be a cheaper alternative."

Daisuke leaned forward. "I want a full report on him within the day. We won't get into a bidding war with Collins, but we'll find someone who fits our system."

Collins could play his games. Daisuke would win his way.

The upcoming preseason match was against Brentwood FC, a mid-table Premier League team. A massive step up in competition.

Brentwood's manager, Victor Holloway, was a tactical mastermind. His teams were known for high pressing, quick transitions, and deadly wingers.

Daisuke analyzed Brentwood's game footage in his office, searching for weaknesses.

He found one.

Brentwood pressed hard, but that left gaps behind their midfield. If Blackhaven could bypass the press quickly, they could exploit those spaces.

The strategy was set: Quick, vertical passing. Exploit the gaps. No hesitation.

The crowd at Blackhaven Stadium had tripled in size. Everyone wanted to see how their club fared against a top-flight team.

Starting XI:

GK: Ethan Reid

DEF: Ryan Foster, Tomás Navarro, Mark Davies, Lucas Grant

MID: Lewis Carter, Samuel O'Connell, Kai Nakamura

FWD: Jack Morrison, Aaron Winters, James Holloway

Brentwood, meanwhile, fielded a near-full-strength squad.

The whistle blew. Game on.

Brentwood dominated possession early, testing Blackhaven's defense. Their wingers sent in cross after cross, but Mark Davies and Tomás Navarro stood firm.

Daisuke shouted instructions from the touchline. "Patience! Let them come to us!"

At the 26th minute, Brentwood broke through.

A quick one-two pass opened up space, and their striker drilled a low shot toward goal.

Ethan Reid dived—fingertips to the ball—pushing it onto the post!

Blackhaven fans roared in approval. Their keeper had just saved them.

Halftime: 0-0.

Daisuke made a tactical change.

He dropped Samuel deeper, making him the key link between defense and attack.

He pushed Kai Nakamura forward, using his pace to counter Brentwood's high line.

The moment came at the 57th minute.

Samuel won the ball, skipped past a challenge, and launched a long pass to Kai Nakamura.

Kai sprinted past the defenders, cut inside, and sent a low cross to Aaron Winters.

Aaron didn't hesitate—first-time shot.

GOAL! 1-0 BLACKHAVEN!

The stadium erupted.

Brentwood responded with relentless pressure, but Blackhaven held their ground.

Final Whistle: 1-0.

Blackhaven had just beaten a Premier League side.

Press Conference

Reporter: "Coach Takeda, how did you outplay a Premier League team?"

Daisuke: (smirks) "Football isn't just about talent. It's about understanding the game. My players executed perfectly today."

Reporter: "Samuel, you dominated midfield again. Thoughts?"

Samuel: (grinning) "It's fun making great teams look ordinary."

Blackhaven had sent a message.

Even Collins would have to take notice.

That night, Daisuke received another message from Hana.

Hana Sakamoto: "Collins just made an offer for Nikola Stojanovic. He's trying to steal another one."

Daisuke narrowed his eyes.

Collins wanted a transfer war? Fine.

He'd play to win.