Chapter 30: Preparing for the Semifinal

The victory over Ghana had been decisive, but there was no time to dwell on it. The semifinals were next.

David sat in his dorm, legs stretched out, replaying the match in his mind.

The system interface hovered in his vision, analyzing his performance.

> Match Rating: 8.6

Successful Passes: 92%

Chances Created: 3

Goals: 1

He was improving.

But the next match wouldn't be easy. They were facing Côte d'Ivoire.

---

The next morning, training resumed.

The coaches gathered the team for a briefing.

"Their attack is explosive," the head coach warned. "We can't allow them space."

David nodded, already aware. Côte d'Ivoire relied on speed and physicality.

Their wingers were fast, and their striker was lethal inside the box.

It meant one thing—Nigeria had to control the tempo.

---

During drills, David focused on his passing range.

His adaptability allowed him to adjust, refining his decision-making under pressure.

At one point, the assistant coach pulled him aside.

"You see things differently, don't you?"

David just gave a small nod. He wasn't going to explain what even he barely understood.

---

After training, the team rested.

David lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling.

His body felt fine—his adaptation made sure of that.

But he knew the real test was coming.

Semifinal. Winner goes to the final.

It was time to take another step forward.