Chapter 27: The Final Countdown

The next two days flew by in a blur of training, team meetings, and tactical drills.

By now, David was fully adjusted to his surroundings. The pitch. The climate. The atmosphere. Everything had become part of his reality.

And now, only one thing remained—the opening match.

---

The final training session before the tournament was lighter, focused on set pieces and positioning.

"Ghana is strong in the air," Coach Yusuf reminded them. "We can't afford to switch off on crosses or corners."

David absorbed the information. He wasn't a towering presence in defense, but his ability to anticipate danger gave him an edge.

As the session wrapped up, the players gathered in a huddle.

"Tomorrow, we begin our journey," Coach Yusuf said. "The world is watching."

A buzz of energy spread through the team.

David clenched his fists. He was ready.

---

Later that evening, after dinner, the players had some free time.

Some chatted in groups, discussing tactics and predicting how Ghana would play.

Ibrahim sat beside David in the lounge area. "Think we'll win?"

David met his gaze. "We will."

Ibrahim grinned. "Confident as always."

David didn't respond. There was no point in doubting.

---

That night, as he lay in bed, his mind wasn't restless.

He had done the work. He had trained relentlessly.

Now, all that was left was to execute.

Tomorrow, the tournament begins.

And David Afolabi would step onto the field—not just as a player, but as a statement.