Football: I am the coach of Atlético de Madrid.

Chapter 31

Knock, knock.

Yang Hao sat at his desk, reviewing some freshly sent documents from the administrative department.

Looking up, he saw Diego Simeone standing at the door.

"Come in," Yang Hao gestured with his left hand.

"Take a seat. I just need a moment."

Simeone, familiar with Yang Hao after joining Atlético, didn't hesitate. He helped himself to a chair, poured a glass of water, and took a sip.

"There's been a lot going on lately," he remarked casually.

"Yeah, only three days to prepare. There's bound to be a lot to do."

Simeone nodded. "Has the team bus left yet?"

"It left yesterday afternoon. Fully loaded with supplies." Yang Hao smiled.

After the league match, Yang Hao had given his players a half-day off to rest and spend time with family, knowing the busy days ahead would leave little room for such moments.

The travel party to Scotland was substantial, including players, coaches, staff, and even chefs. Every detail was meticulously planned—food, drinking water, and even fresh ingredients were being transported from Madrid, with some arriving by air.

This level of preparation was aimed at avoiding any possible issues, like adapting poorly to the local environment.

"How's the hotel?" Simeone asked with interest.

Yang Hao motioned for him to come over. "This is the estate booked by Miguel Gil and Carlos León. It's a large manor just outside Glasgow's southern suburbs, close to Hampden Park via the highway."

Simeone looked over the photos and nodded approvingly. "Looks great. Nice facilities too."

"They initially considered a few five-star hotels in the city center," Yang Hao explained, "but I didn't like the idea of a bustling location. I settled on this place instead. We've booked the entire estate—over 120 rooms."

"Must've cost a fortune," Simeone chuckled.

"Not as bad as you'd think. They gave us a big discount in exchange for permission to advertise using our club's name over the next year."

"Fair enough," Simeone said, sipping his water.

Once Yang Hao finished his tasks, he joined Simeone on the sofa.

Simeone had shown a growing interest in coaching. He often visited Yang Hao's office and paid close attention to managerial details.

People unfamiliar with him might misinterpret his on-field persona—a fiery, combative figure—as his true nature. But those who knew Simeone well recognized the contrast: beneath the tough exterior was a meticulous and reflective individual.

This duality explained why he would later become a successful manager.

Yang Hao had even noticed small but telling habits. Simeone always dressed impeccably—on the field, in interviews, and even in everyday life. He exuded a certain polished professionalism that left a positive impression on those around him.

This attention to detail extended to his coaching potential. For instance, Yang Hao had seen players like Adriano, who would never become a coach, and Deco, who lacked the ability to lead a team despite his motivational skills. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso and Cambiasso stood out for their intellectual approach and love for studying the game.

"Actually, I asked you here today to get your opinion on something," Yang Hao said, cutting to the chase.

"Go on."

"If I assigned you to man-mark Zidane in the final, how would you feel about that?"

Simeone's demeanor turned serious as he began to ponder the question.

"I suspect Real Madrid's strategy will oscillate between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-4-2 in the final," Yang Hao continued.

Simeone nodded. They had studied Madrid's system extensively, especially after facing them three times this season, including the infamous centennial match.

Under Vicente del Bosque, Real Madrid's transitions between the two formations were seamless. Whether Raúl played as a secondary striker or as a roaming forward, it hardly mattered—Madrid's tactical fluidity was their strength.

Zidane was central to all of it.

Just as Deco was Atlético's creative heartbeat, Zidane orchestrated Madrid's midfield whether he was officially positioned as a left-sided playmaker or an advanced midfielder.

"You're not considering a three-defensive-midfielder setup?" Simeone probed.

Yang Hao chuckled. "We've beaten them three times already. Do you really think using the same approach again would still work?"

Del Bosque wasn't naive; he would have adjusted Madrid's tactics to counter Atlético's predictable methods.

Yang Hao elaborated, "Let's face it—Madrid's individual quality far surpasses ours. If we lose the tactical battle too, we might as well not play."

His approach for the final was clear: Atlético needed to go toe-to-toe with Madrid. Controlling the midfield would be crucial.

To dominate the midfield, Zidane had to be neutralized.

"Madrid's midfield has a weak spot," Yang Hao explained. "Makelele and Helguera aren't great at progressing the ball forward. There's a natural disconnect between their defensive midfielders and their attack."

If Atlético could stifle Zidane, they could disrupt Madrid's offensive rhythm, forcing the team to expose this weakness.

Simeone nodded slowly, recognizing the gravity of the assignment.

"Of course," Yang Hao added, "we'll need everyone in midfield to step up. But your role will be the most important."

Simeone met his coach's gaze and replied with a determined nod, "If that's what you need, I'll make sure Zidane disappears."

Yang Hao had sought out Diego Simeone to hear his honest thoughts before making final decisions on the lineup. The choice of who would shadow Zidane in the Champions League final was critical.

Options were limited:

Simeone had the experience, having faced Zidane in many high-stakes matches, including their Serie A encounters.

Baraja was in his prime and could handle the task despite having recently played a league match.

Xabi Alonso and Cambiasso were capable but more oriented toward organizing play, and Zidane's physicality posed a challenge for them.

Marcos Senna, unfortunately, had maxed out his first-team appearances for the season.

Simeone, always upfront, broke the silence.

"To be honest, I'm starting to feel the strain," he admitted calmly.

Yang Hao nodded, letting him continue.

"A few years ago, even last year, I could play 30 or 40 matches a season without an issue. After a game, I'd rest for a night and bounce back. Hell, I'd even…" Simeone smirked, "you know, still have energy left for… extracurriculars. No problem at all."

Yang Hao couldn't help but laugh at his candor.

"But recently," Simeone continued, his expression more serious, "it's different. After a game, no matter how much I rest, I still feel drained. And we rotate—I'm barely playing once a week now, not even full matches—but I feel exhausted."

"That kind of fatigue builds up, like it's never fully gone. And one day, not long ago, I thought to myself: Am I getting old?"

Yang Hao chuckled again, but behind Simeone's laugh was a hint of resignation.

Admitting aging wasn't easy, especially for someone as fiercely competitive as Simeone.

"I guess I just have to accept it and adapt," Simeone said, sighing.

A few years ago, he would've confidently pounded his chest and said, 'Don't worry, I've got this.'

Now, he lacked that same certainty.

It was a strange realization—suddenly feeling one's age creep in, as if overnight.

To his credit, Simeone didn't shy away from the truth. He could have lied, but he didn't. He understood how much this game meant to Yang Hao, to Atlético, and to their fans.

"Got it," Yang Hao said with a smile, looking straight at Simeone. "Regardless of what happens, you're still one of the most important players on this team. And if you've got time, spend it mentoring some of our younger guys—Baraja, Xabi…"

"I think they play too cleanly."

"Wait, what's that supposed to mean?" Simeone pretended to be offended, ready to spar. "Are you saying I don't play clean? You're biased, Yang. Admit it—deep down, you've always had it out for me."

"Oh, come on, do you think you play clean?"

"Of course! I think I play very clean football!" Simeone declared, straight-faced and full of bravado.

"How about this," Yang Hao countered, "I'll post a poll online. If more than 30% of respondents think you play clean, I'll publicly apologize and treat you to a month's worth of gourmet dinners. If not, you treat me."

Simeone faltered, suddenly unsure. "You all misunderstand me! The world misunderstands me!"

"So the whole world has a bias against you?" Yang Hao shot back, amused.

With a grin, Simeone stood up. "Fine, I'm done arguing with you. I'll head back and talk to the others about this."

In the end, Simeone admitted his playing style wasn't exactly clean.

As Yang Hao watched him leave, there was no trace of bitterness in Simeone's demeanor—only a sense of freedom.

People like Simeone never wallowed in self-pity. Accepting aging with grace was a different kind of courage.

The Final Build-Up

With the domestic leagues wrapping up, Europe's football season was drawing to a close.

In Spain, the final standings were:

Real Madrid

Atlético Madrid

Valencia

Deportivo La Coruña

For Barcelona, it was another dismal season, failing yet again to secure a Champions League spot. Manager Carles Rexach was sacked, with the club eyeing Louis van Gaal as a replacement, though fan protests were mounting.

Meanwhile, Atlético's semi-final victory over Bayer Leverkusen had saved Michael Ballack from another runner-up medal.

Elsewhere, Matthias Sammer's Borussia Dortmund clinched the Bundesliga title, only to fall 2-3 to Feyenoord in the UEFA Cup final, further highlighting the decline of German football.

Feyenoord, while decent, boasted few recognizable stars apart from a young Robin van Persie on the left wing and Bonaventure Kalou on the right (the elder brother of Chelsea's Salomon Kalou).

Now, all eyes were on the season's grand finale: the Champions League Final.

At Atlético's training ground in Majadahonda, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Every player understood the gravity of the occasion—this wasn't just any match. For many, it might be the most important game of their careers.

Winning would etch their names into footballing history. Losing was unthinkable.

Connecting with Fans

As was his custom, Yang Hao involved the entire squad, including youth players from the second team, in the trip to Scotland. He even distributed tickets to future stars like Messi, Ramos, and Modrić, inviting them and their families to witness the momentous event.

Some tickets went to Jessica Alba and her friends.

The day before departing, Yang Hao took the team into Madrid's bustling streets, visiting fan-packed bars and cafés. These venues played Atlético's past matches on repeat, always teeming with supporters.

Many fans had already left for Scotland, but those who stayed showed overwhelming enthusiasm when the players arrived.

For over an hour, players mingled with fans, listening to their stories, singing along to their chants, and sharing the sense of unity unique to Atlético.

One elderly fan, emboldened by a bit too much wine, climbed onto the stage and grabbed the microphone.

"Atlético boys, what are you afraid of? What pressure could you possibly feel?" he shouted, voice booming.

"Before this season, everyone thought Real Madrid would be the ones playing at Hampden Park. As for us, we were supposed to be on vacation by now, weren't we?"

The crowd erupted in cheers.

"Exactly! So, for us to see you standing here, about to face our city rivals in Hampden Park, defending our honor, that alone is enough, isn't it?"

"Yes!" The entire bar roared in unison.

"Children, no matter what the outcome of the match on May 15th, we'll be here at the Calderón to welcome you back as heroes. For a club like Atlético, reaching the final is already a victory!"

"No matter what happens, you're our heroes—our bravest warriors!"

"Well said!!" The place erupted in applause and chants again.

This was exactly what Yang Hao wanted before the final: for his players to release their mental burden and step onto the pitch unshackled.

The Journey to Hampden Park

The day before the final, Atlético completed their morning training session in Madrid and boarded a chartered Emirates Airlines flight to Edinburgh in the afternoon. This arrangement was part of their sponsorship deal, with Emirates organizing flights not just for the team but also for family members, VIP guests, and fans traveling to Scotland.

Upon landing, the team's bus awaited them, ready to drive westward to Glasgow. Outside the airport, Atlético and Real Madrid fans faced off, chanting and jeering. Once the team boarded, the bus headed down the highway to the team's designated hotel in Glasgow's southern suburbs.

The hotel, a sprawling estate with a picturesque garden, was well-known as a wedding venue. For the duration of the Champions League final, it would exclusively serve Atlético, with heightened security and no outside visitors allowed.

Players settled into pre-assigned rooms—two per room, in line with their usual travel habits—and later that afternoon, they headed to Hampden Park for their final training session.

This session, led by Juanma Lillo, marked the last opportunity for the team to familiarize themselves with the pitch. The media noted the impressive size of Atlético's coaching staff: 15 specialists, each overseeing specific aspects of preparation.

Real Madrid's training was scheduled after Atlético's, with both teams carefully avoiding each other.

"Keep an eye on the conditions here. It rains often, and the humidity is unusually high," Yang Hao reminded Lillo.

Lillo nodded and adjusted parts of the session accordingly. The weather forecast indicated a high likelihood of rain during the match, which could significantly impact play. For Scottish teams, such conditions were routine, but Atlético had to prepare accordingly.

"The players' mental state seems stable," Lillo noted with a smile after the session.

The meeting with fans earlier in the week had been deliberate on Yang Hao's part. It was designed to remind the players: win or lose, they were already champions in the eyes of their fans.

"Tonight will be the real test," Yang Hao replied.

The Day of the Final

The hours leading up to the match were a mix of nerves and calm efficiency.

The day began with a tactical meeting, where Yang Hao reiterated key points and emphasized crucial details, including the likelihood of rain. Afterward, the players were given plenty of time to rest.

Yang Hao himself spent most of the day engaging with his players, offering encouragement and ensuring everyone felt supported. In the afternoon, he arranged a casual gathering in the hotel's expansive garden, inviting players' families to join. The relaxed atmosphere helped ease some tension, and laughter filled the air.

When the time came, the team ate their pre-match meal and rested again before boarding the bus to Hampden Park.

The Final Hour

The bus ride to Hampden Park was unusually quiet.

Some players listened to music, others stared out the window, and a few closed their eyes, deep in thought. The heavy silence was broken only when the bus neared the stadium and encountered a crowd of Real Madrid fans. Spotting the Atlético bus, they threw bottles and banged on the windows, their actions shattering the stillness inside.

Upon arrival at Hampden Park, Yang Hao waited until an hour before kickoff to announce the starting lineup.

Starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Van der Sar

Defenders: Belletti, Carvalho, Lúcio, Aurelio

Midfielders: Cambiasso, Baraja, Vicente, Deco, Joaquín

Forward: Adriano

The defensive lineup was unsurprising—it was a unit that had been honed over two seasons. Up front, Adriano's inclusion was expected, as were Vicente and Joaquín on the wings.

However, the choice of Cambiasso over Simeone as one of the two holding midfielders caught many off guard. It hinted at a tactical shift, with Simeone and Xabi Alonso ready on the bench to adapt to any developments.

Yang Hao stood before his players in the locker room.

"I'll keep this brief," he began.

"First, the key to this match lies in the midfield. We need to dominate or at least maintain parity there."

"Second, focus. Avoid mistakes. Keep the match tempo under our control—our control. Don't let Real Madrid dictate the pace."

Having already discussed tactics at length, Yang Hao felt no need to repeat himself. He scanned the room, letting his gaze rest on Deco.

"Deco," he said, his voice steady, "everything starts with you."

Deco nodded, his face calm but his eyes burning with determination.

This was it.

The players began their final preparations, each aware that the next 90 minutes—or more—would define their careers. On the other side of the tunnel waited Real Madrid, their eternal rivals, ready to battle for the ultimate prize in club football.

The air inside Hampden Park was electric. Fans of both teams filled the stands, their chants creating a deafening roar. The rain had begun to fall, soaking the pitch and promising an intense, unpredictable clash.

In the dimly lit tunnel, Yang Hao stood with his players, his heart pounding.

This was their moment.

In the locker room before the match, Yang Hao had deliberately pulled Deco aside, hinting that it was his job to lighten the mood.

Despite his sometimes wooden expression, Deco had a knack for cracking jokes that could easily break the tension.

"Listen, just pass the ball to me whenever you can. I'll handle Makelele and Helguera myself," Deco quipped, exaggerating his confidence.

The team chuckled.

"And Vicente, Joaquín," he added, looking at the two wingers, "once the ball gets to me, you two should get ready to fly."

His casual tone brought more laughter, loosening the players up.

"I've been waiting for this for ages. Those clueless journalists keep calling me the 'Brazilian Zidane.' Forget that! Starting tonight, I'm Deco, and from now on, Zidane will be known as the French Deco!"

The room erupted into laughter.

The comment wasn't meant as a slight to Zidane but rather a playful jab to ease nerves and boost confidence.

"Let's Be Heroes!"

Team captain Baraja stepped forward, his voice steady but impassioned.

"Listen up, everyone. We are Atlético Madrid! For most of us, this is our first Champions League final!"

"We've all seen and heard our fans tonight—their cheers, their faith in us."

"I'm asking you, don't let them down! We are destined to be heroes. Tonight, Atlético Madrid will prevail!"

Baraja's neck turned red with effort as he shouted. It was clear his words had been carefully prepared.

"This is our moment. Don't let it slip away. Play with no regrets! Let's start strong, stay patient, and get every pass, every tackle, and every duel right! Let's show those superstars what we're made of!"

He raised his fist and roared, "Let's take down Real Madrid!"

The players rose in unison, fists clenched, shouting back:

"Take down Real Madrid!"

The Final Begins!

In the deafening atmosphere of Hampden Park, under the roar of more than 50,000 fans, the referee Urs Meier blew the whistle, and the Champions League final kicked off.

Atlético launched an immediate high press, charging into Real Madrid's half with determination.

Real Madrid fielded a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation:

Goalkeeper: Casillas

Defenders: Roberto Carlos, Cannavaro, Hierro, Salgado

Midfield: Makelele, Helguera, Zidane, Raúl, Figo

Forward: Morientes

Yang Hao had anticipated this lineup down to the smallest detail, and Atlético's pressing and defensive setups reflected this preparation.

Real Madrid, however, were unfazed. They played patiently, absorbing Atlético's intensity and waiting for opportunities to counter.

The opening exchanges were fiercely contested, with both sides fielding identical formations. Each matchup was a duel:

The wings saw Vicente and Joaquín testing Carlos and Salgado.

In the middle, Baraja shadowed Zidane, while Cambiasso hung back to shield the defense.

Belletti and Aurelio were tasked with countering Real Madrid's overlapping fullbacks.

The early minutes showcased the grit and determination of both teams. Neither side gave an inch, resulting in a high-tempo, physically grueling battle.

The First Threat

The match's first shot came in the 8th minute, a testament to the suffocating tactics both teams employed.

Roberto Carlos made a trademark overlapping run down the left, receiving a pass from Makelele and charging into Atlético's defensive third. His low cross found Raúl at the top of the box, but Cambiasso's close marking prevented him from turning or shooting.

Instead, Raúl coolly laid the ball off to Zidane, who surged in from the left. Without hesitation, the French maestro unleashed a powerful curling strike from the edge of the box.

The ball carved through the air toward the top-right corner.

Van der Sar, alert and prepared, launched himself into a full stretch. His outstretched hand barely deflected the ball, tipping it past the post.

The Dutch goalkeeper sprang to his feet, clapping his gloves together and shouting, "Let's go! Stay sharp!"

A Tactical Chess Match

On the sideline, Yang Hao observed intently from the technical area.

He couldn't help but acknowledge the sheer quality of Real Madrid's front players. The composure of Raúl's layoff and Zidane's thunderous shot were the hallmarks of elite footballing talent.

"Real Madrid's midfield hasn't found much joy, but their left flank is starting to heat up," Juanma Lillo noted gravely.

Yang Hao nodded. Roberto Carlos's attacking prowess was well-documented, and it was clear Los Blancos intended to exploit this.

"No problem. As long as we stay solid, we can start to impose ourselves in midfield," Yang Hao replied confidently.

A Game of Endurance

The opening minutes revealed both teams' strategies. Real Madrid sought to capitalize on individual brilliance and wide play, while Atlético relied on their pressing, organization, and cohesive transitions.

The match settled into a tense rhythm, with neither side able to gain a decisive advantage.

For Yang Hao, the key lay in maintaining this balance. He knew that as the game wore on, fatigue and errors would begin to tip the scales.

The battle was underway. Both sides had thrown their opening punches, and now it was a matter of who could endure longer, adapt faster, and seize the moment when it inevitably came.

In the rain-soaked Hampden Park, the stage was set for history to be made.

Three minutes after Real Madrid's first shot, they launched another attack down the left flank—once again spearheaded by Roberto Carlos. This time, his cross into the box was intercepted mid-air by Van der Sar, who confidently plucked the ball from danger.

Atlético immediately sought to counter, but Deco was swarmed by Makélélé and Helguera before he could orchestrate the attack.

"Vicente looks hesitant tonight," Yang Hao muttered, shaking his head.

Joaquín had tracked back to help defend against Carlos's raids, leaving Deco isolated. Vicente needed to make himself available, especially since the left flank had promising opportunities.

"It's the first few minutes. Let's give him time to settle," Yang Hao's assistant reassured him.

But nearly 15 minutes in, Atlético had yet to register a shot on goal. Yang Hao could only smile wryly. Despite this, the game's tempo remained high, with neither side allowing the other a moment of respite.

Stepping to the sideline, Yang Hao called out to Vicente, gesturing for him to get more involved and increase his movement.

Building Momentum

As the match progressed, neither side managed to assert complete dominance. Real Madrid edged possession and created more attacking moments, but apart from Zidane's early long-range effort, they had yet to fashion a clear-cut chance.

Slowly but surely, Atlético began to find their footing. By the 25th minute, their midfield began to dictate play, while Adriano's physicality kept Madrid's center-backs busy.

The tide started to shift. Atlético created a series of corners, with the third proving the most dangerous.

In the 30th minute, Deco's delivery found Adriano, who leapt above everyone to connect with a powerful header. The ball skimmed the top of the crossbar before sailing out of play, leaving Madrid's defenders and fans alike breathing a sigh of relief.

Yang Hao clapped enthusiastically from the sideline, shouting words of encouragement.

"This is it! Keep pushing!"

A Warning Sign

As Atlético pressed forward, they left themselves vulnerable at the back.

In the 33rd minute, Zidane found himself in possession on the left. With a deft touch, he slipped past Belletti and surged forward. As Raúl made a decoy run into the box, Zidane chose to drive inside, taking two more strides before threading a pass toward the near post.

Raúl's movement had momentarily disrupted Baraja's positioning, allowing Morientes to latch onto the pass.

But Van der Sar was equal to the challenge, rushing out and blocking Morientes's close-range shot.

The stadium erupted with contrasting reactions—gasps from Atlético fans and groans from the Madrid faithful.

On the sideline, Yang Hao shook his head. "They're getting impatient up front and leaving gaps at the back."

He glanced at the clock—33 minutes gone, still 0-0.

Atlético Responds

Atlético didn't back down. Deco shrugged off Makélélé's attentions, driving forward before finding Joaquín on the right.

With Roberto Carlos caught upfield, Joaquín advanced unchallenged into Madrid's defensive third. Cutting inside, he whipped a cross toward Adriano.

Despite Hierro's pressure, Adriano rose highest to meet the ball, his header forcing Casillas into a diving save.

The resulting end-to-end exchanges added excitement to the match but also heightened tension, with both teams walking a fine line between attack and defense.

A Moment of Brilliance

Just when it seemed Atlético was gaining the upper hand, Real Madrid struck.

Figo swung in a cross from the right, which Morientes nodded down into Raúl's path. With a single touch, Raúl laid it off to Zidane, who had drifted into space on the left side of the box.

Drawing Belletti toward him, Zidane took a diagonal route toward the edge of the penalty area.

Then came the moment.

From 20 yards out, Zidane unleashed a thunderous strike. The ball curved through the damp Glasgow air, dipping sharply as it approached goal.

Van der Sar, despite his best efforts, could only graze the ball with his fingertips before it cannoned into the top-right corner—right where the post meets the crossbar.

A moment of magic.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!"

"At the 38th minute, Real Madrid's Zidane produces a moment of sheer brilliance!"

"An unstoppable strike! Top corner! Absolute perfection!"

"Despite Van der Sar's full-stretch dive, Zidane's shot was simply unplayable!"

"This is why Zidane is considered one of the all-time greats. Moments like these, where he turns a stalemate into a lead with a single stroke of genius."

"Just when Atlético looked the likelier to score, Zidane reminded everyone of what separates the extraordinary from the elite. A goal of pure class!"

Momentum Shift

Zidane's strike electrified Real Madrid. The confidence in their play surged as they pushed forward with renewed vigor.

Though both teams continued with the same personnel and tactics, Real's belief was palpable. They began to dictate proceedings, forcing Atlético to retreat deeper into their half.

By the end of the first half, Madrid had pinned Atlético back, launching wave after wave of attacks.

Yang Hao watched from the sidelines, his mind racing. The sudden swing in momentum was not unexpected—he'd warned his players about the impact of individual brilliance.

"Zizou's magic," Yang Hao muttered, shaking his head. "Even without his volley from Hampden Park's past, he still finds a way to conjure something spectacular."

Regrouping Needed

As the halftime whistle approached, Atlético found themselves under siege. Real Madrid's stars smelled blood, and it was all Van der Sar and the backline could do to keep the scoreline at 1-0.

Yang Hao knew the break couldn't come soon enough. The players needed to regroup, reassess, and refocus.

In a match of this magnitude, there was no room for self-pity.

"Stay calm," Yang Hao muttered to himself. "There's still time. A lot of time."

"Have we done anything wrong in the first half?"

Yang Hao's calm voice echoed through the locker room, silencing everyone. The players, staff, and coaches—all eyes were locked on him, waiting for the answer that could define their fate in this final.

After a brief pause, Yang Hao smiled faintly.

"No, we haven't."

This statement caused a ripple of confusion, but also a glimmer of hope.

"We've followed our tactics. We've stayed organized. We've created chances. The only thing that went against us was Zidane's brilliance—a single strike that no one in the world could stop. That's it."

Yang Hao's confidence began to seep into his players. The blame they had subconsciously placed on themselves started to lift.

"So, what should we do in the second half?" Yang Hao continued, pacing slowly in the center of the room.

"We keep going. We play our football. But most importantly, we don't stop believing. Zidane's goal doesn't make us inferior. It's a reminder that finals are decided by moments. And gentlemen..."

Yang Hao paused, his eyes scanning every player in the room.

"The second half will be ours."

Adjusting the Mindset

Yang Hao's words were carefully crafted. He knew his players weren't just fighting Real Madrid—they were fighting their own doubts and inexperience.

"Listen carefully," he continued, raising his tone.

"This is a Champions League final. It's not about being perfect. It's about who wants it more. Real Madrid may have more experience, but we have something they don't: hunger."

The players' gazes sharpened.

"Do you hear that?" Yang Hao asked, motioning toward the muffled roars of Atlético fans reverberating outside.

"They believe in us. Why? Because this team—the one sitting in this room—is already their champion. But now..."

Yang Hao clenched his fist, his voice filled with passion.

"Now, let's make history. Let's make them remember tonight forever."

Tactical Adjustments

After the motivational speech, Yang Hao turned to strategy.

"We'll keep the 4-2-3-1, but with one change: attack with more intent. Joaquín, Vicente—don't just track back. Push forward as soon as we regain possession. Stretch their full-backs. Force them to defend."

He shifted his focus to the midfielders.

"Deco, take more risks. I trust you. Baraja, cover Deco when he moves up, but don't be afraid to shoot if the opportunity comes."

Finally, he looked at Adriano.

"Adriano, I don't need you to score every time. Just keep terrorizing their center-backs. Wear them down. Create space for Vicente and Joaquín."

The players nodded, determination etched on their faces.

Kickoff: The Second Half

The second half began with a palpable tension in the air. Atlético emerged with renewed vigor, immediately pressing high and playing with greater aggression.

The first warning came in the 47th minute. Deco played a clever through ball to Vicente, who sprinted past Salgado and delivered a low cross into the box. Adriano's sliding effort forced Casillas into a spectacular save.

Atlético's fans erupted in cheers.

The Equalizer: Vicente's Moment

In the 56th minute, Atlético found their breakthrough.

Joaquín won the ball near the halfway line, shaking off Roberto Carlos before sending a quick pass to Deco.

Deco spotted Vicente darting behind Salgado. With a perfectly weighted ball, he sent the winger through. Vicente took one touch to control and another to cut inside, leaving Salgado in his wake.

From just inside the box, Vicente unleashed a low, curling shot that sneaked past Casillas and into the far corner.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!"

The Atlético fans in the stadium erupted, their red-and-white scarves waving furiously in the air.

Turning the Tide

The equalizer flipped the momentum. Atlético played with even greater confidence, their passing sharper and their pressing relentless.

Real Madrid, rattled by Vicente's goal, began to retreat. Zidane and Raúl tried to spark counterattacks, but Baraja and Cambiasso tightened the midfield, suffocating Madrid's creativity.

The Winner: Adriano's Heroics

In the 75th minute, Atlético completed the turnaround.

A corner from Deco found Adriano towering above everyone in the box. His powerful header was initially saved by Casillas, but the ball rebounded back to him.

With instinctive quickness, Adriano struck again—this time smashing the ball into the roof of the net.

"GOAL! Adriano puts Atlético in the lead!"

The roar from Atlético fans was deafening. Players swarmed Adriano, celebrating wildly near the corner flag.

Surviving the Onslaught

The final 15 minutes felt like an eternity. Real Madrid threw everything forward—Zidane orchestrated attacks, Roberto Carlos unleashed long-range efforts, and Raúl narrowly missed an equalizer with a header that skimmed the post.

But Atlético held firm. Van der Sar made two crucial saves, and the defense, led by Lucio and Carvalho, put their bodies on the line.

The Final Whistle

When the referee blew for full-time, the Atlético players collapsed to the ground, overwhelmed with emotion.

2-1. Atlético Madrid were champions of Europe.

History Made

The Atlético fans in the stands wept tears of joy, their chants of "Atleti! Atleti!" echoing through Hampden Park.

Yang Hao, standing on the sidelines, was mobbed by his coaching staff. The youngest coach to win the Champions League, he had guided his underdog team to an unforgettable victory.

As the trophy was lifted, Yang Hao looked around at his players, his staff, and the sea of red-and-white supporters.

This was more than just a win. It was the culmination of a dream—a victory not just for the team, but for everyone who had believed in them.

Atlético Madrid: Champions of Europe.

As Atlético Madrid's players returned to the field for the second half, the atmosphere in Hampden Park was electric. The chants of "Atleti! Atleti!" from the red-and-white section were deafening, rallying their team for what could be a defining 45 minutes.

In the center circle, Baraja gathered his teammates for one last moment of unity. "No regrets!" he shouted. "We fight for every ball, every inch! We're not leaving this field as losers!"

The team roared in unison: "Let's go, Atleti!"

A Furious Start

From the first whistle of the second half, it was clear that Atlético Madrid meant business. They surged forward with pace and aggression, immediately pressing Real Madrid's defense and challenging their midfield dominance.

In the 47th minute, Joaquín received a pass from Deco on the right flank. He darted past Roberto Carlos with a burst of speed, cutting inside and firing a low cross toward the penalty area. Adriano was there, but his attempt was blocked by Hierro at the last moment.

The ball deflected out to Vicente on the left. With a sharp turn, he evaded Salgado and unleashed a curling shot toward the far post. Casillas stretched to his limit, tipping the ball over the crossbar.

Atlético's fans erupted, their belief visibly energizing the players.

The Equalizer: Deco's Masterstroke

In the 53rd minute, the breakthrough came.

It started with Cambiasso, who intercepted a sloppy pass from Elguera and quickly played the ball forward to Baraja. With one touch, Baraja found Deco at the edge of the box.

Deco, surrounded by defenders, performed a dazzling roulette to escape from Makélélé, creating just enough space to shoot.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLL!"

The ball rocketed into the bottom corner, past a diving Casillas. The Atlético fans exploded in celebration as Deco sprinted to the corner flag, pumping his fists.

1-1!

Momentum Shift

The equalizer transformed the match. Real Madrid, rattled by Atlético's intensity, struggled to regain control. Makélélé and Elguera were overwhelmed by the relentless pressure from Baraja and Cambiasso, while Joaquín and Vicente exploited the flanks with devastating runs.

In the 62nd minute, Joaquín nearly created a second goal. Breaking free on the right, he delivered a pinpoint cross to Adriano, whose header grazed the post.

Yang Hao, on the sidelines, gestured for his team to stay focused. "Keep pushing! The goal is coming!"

The Winner: Adriano Delivers

In the 70th minute, Atlético Madrid completed their comeback.

A corner from Vicente found Lucio at the back post. The Brazilian defender rose above everyone to head the ball back across the six-yard box. Adriano, perfectly positioned, outmuscled Cannavaro and struck the ball into the net with a thunderous volley.

"GOAL! Adriano scores for Atlético!"

The stadium shook as Atlético's players celebrated wildly. Adriano ran to the touchline, pointing to the stands where his father was watching, tears in his eyes.

Defensive Resolve

With 20 minutes remaining, Real Madrid launched wave after wave of attacks. Zidane, frustrated but determined, orchestrated their offense, but Atlético's defense held firm.

Lucio and Carvalho threw themselves in front of every shot, while Van der Sar made a stunning save to deny Raúl from close range in the 78th minute.

Yang Hao made crucial substitutions, bringing on Simeone for Deco to add steel to the midfield and Forlán to provide fresh legs up front.

The Final Whistle

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Real Madrid won a corner. Casillas sprinted forward, joining the attack in a desperate bid to equalize.

The corner was cleared by Lucio, and Cambiasso launched a long ball toward the empty Real Madrid half. Forlán chased it down, but the referee blew the final whistle before he could reach it.

"Atlético Madrid are the champions of Europe!"

Scenes of Triumph

The Atlético players collapsed to the ground in exhaustion and disbelief. Some cried, others embraced, while the fans in red and white erupted in unbridled joy.

Yang Hao stood on the sidelines, fists clenched, tears streaming down his face. At just 27 years old, he had led Atlético Madrid to their first-ever Champions League title in the modern era.

The players lifted him onto their shoulders, parading him around the pitch as the Atlético fans sang their hearts out.

A Night to Remember

As the team climbed the podium, Miguel Gil, Jesus Gil, and Enrique Cerezo joined them. Baraja, with tears in his eyes, lifted the iconic trophy to the heavens as fireworks lit up the Glasgow sky.

Yang Hao, standing alongside his players, soaked in the moment. This wasn't just a victory—it was a statement. Against the odds, Atlético Madrid had toppled the giants of European football.

They weren't just contenders anymore—they were champions.

As the second half began, the tension in Hampden Park was palpable. Atlético Madrid had their backs against the wall, trailing 1-0. But Yang Hao's halftime speech had clearly worked wonders. The team emerged from the tunnel with a ferocity that took everyone by surprise.

A Stunning Equalizer

With the referee's whistle, Deco immediately passed the ball to Adriano, who instead of passing backward, pushed forward with determination. He quickly switched the play with a diagonal pass to the left flank, where Vicente was waiting near the touchline.

Vicente controlled the ball and charged forward, drawing Figo and Salgado with him. As he neared the 30-yard mark, he sent a perfectly weighted pass into the left half-space. Aurelio surged forward to meet it, calmly controlled the ball, and unleashed a cross-field switch that soared over the pitch.

The ball landed precisely at Joaquín's feet on the right. With a deft chest control, he drove into the box, confronting Roberto Carlos one-on-one. A flurry of step-overs followed before Joaquín cut toward the byline and delivered a low, precise cross.

In the middle of the box, Adriano muscled past Hierro and hammered the ball into the net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"

The Atlético fans erupted. 1-1! In just 18 seconds, Atlético Madrid had equalized.

Momentum Shift

The goal sent shockwaves through the stadium. Atlético's players celebrated with unbridled joy, running to the stands where their fans roared in ecstasy. Adriano pointed to the section where his parents sat, a triumphant expression on his face.

On the sidelines, Yang Hao was a ball of energy, shouting instructions to keep the pressure on. "Keep going! Press them! Don't let up!"

The momentum had shifted decisively. Real Madrid, stunned by the quick equalizer, looked disorganized.

The Go-Ahead Goal

Barely two minutes later, Atlético struck again.

Real Madrid attempted to respond with a long ball from Salgado toward Morientes, but Lucio rose high to intercept, heading the ball back into midfield. Cambiasso collected it and immediately passed to Deco, who spun away from Elguera with a slick turn.

Spotting a gap between Hierro and Cannavaro, Deco threaded a perfect through ball into the space. Adriano, already on the move, burst through the Real Madrid defense like a freight train.

The Brazilian forward reached the ball at full sprint, charging into the box with Hierro and Cannavaro trailing helplessly behind him.

As Casillas advanced to close the angle, Adriano unleashed a thunderous strike without hesitation. The ball rocketed past the keeper and smashed into the net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"

The stadium erupted. 2-1!

Adriano slid on his knees in celebration, his teammates piling on top of him.

Real Madrid in Disarray

On the sidelines, Real Madrid's bench was in chaos. Vicente del Bosque barked instructions, urging his team to regroup, but the damage was done. Atlético's relentless pressing and quick transitions had thrown Madrid off balance.

Meanwhile, in the stands, Florentino Pérez's confidence had evaporated. His smug demeanor was replaced by a tense, disbelieving stare.

"Two goals in three minutes," one pundit marveled. "Atlético Madrid have turned this game on its head!"

Atlético's Defensive Resilience

The next 20 minutes saw Real Madrid attempt to fight back. Zidane and Figo tried to regain control of the midfield, but Atlético's defensive structure held firm. Lucio and Carvalho were immense at the back, thwarting every cross and challenge.

In the 68th minute, Figo broke through on the right and whipped in a dangerous cross, but Van der Sar leaped high to punch it clear. Moments later, Zidane attempted another long-range effort, but his shot sailed over the bar.

A Game of Inches

In the 74th minute, Real Madrid came agonizingly close to an equalizer. Morientes received a pass inside the box and fired a low shot toward the far corner. Van der Sar, at full stretch, got his fingertips to the ball, deflecting it onto the post.

The rebound fell to Raúl, but Cambiasso slid in with a last-ditch tackle, clearing the ball to safety.

Yang Hao turned to his bench and brought on Simeone for Deco, reinforcing the midfield to protect the lead.

The Final Whistle

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Real Madrid launched one final attack. Casillas even sprinted forward for a corner, but the delivery was cleared by Baraja.

The referee's whistle blew, signaling the end of the match.

"Atlético Madrid are the champions of Europe!"

Scenes of Jubilation

The Atlético players collapsed to the ground, overwhelmed by emotion. Some wept openly, others embraced their teammates, while the fans in red and white roared with joy.

Yang Hao was lifted onto the players' shoulders, tears streaming down his face. At just 27 years old, he had led Atlético Madrid to their first Champions League title, a triumph against all odds.

In the stands, Miguel Gil, Jesus Gil, and Enrique Cerezo celebrated wildly. The journey that had started with a team rebuilding from near collapse had culminated in the ultimate prize.

A Historic Night

As Baraja lifted the trophy amid a shower of red and white confetti, the Atlético fans sang with pride. Hampden Park would forever be remembered as the stage where Atlético Madrid achieved the impossible, defeating their city rivals to claim European glory.

For Yang Hao, this was only the beginning.

Atlético Madrid's players stormed off the pitch, celebrating wildly. Adriano, the man of the moment, rushed to the sideline once again, dedicating his second goal to his father in the stands.

Two goals in three minutes.

The Brazilian striker had performed a miraculous brace, shocking the entire stadium and flipping the game on its head.

The Atlético players huddled in euphoria, receiving thunderous cheers from their fans. Yang Hao, unable to contain his emotions, slid onto the pitch on his knees in celebration, then leaped into the huddle, joining his team in the joyous moment.

A Staggering Turn of Events

"2-1! Atlético Madrid have taken the lead!"

"Adriano scores twice in three minutes!"

"This is absolutely incredible!"

In the stands, Florentino Pérez's face was a mix of disbelief and frustration. He repeatedly glanced at the scoreboard, as if hoping the goals might somehow not count.

The truth, however, was undeniable. The scoreboard showed 2-1, and Atlético Madrid had completed a stunning reversal.

From somewhere nearby, Pérez could hear mocking comments: "This is what happens when you celebrate too early."

He fumed silently, his earlier confidence shattered. "What's happening? How did this happen?"

But there was no immediate answer. This was the beauty—and cruelty—of football.

Total Domination

Following the reversal, the momentum had shifted decisively. The second half was an inversion of the first. While Real Madrid had dominated early, Atlético now had complete control.

From the sideline, Yang Hao urged his players to capitalize on their momentum. "Push forward! Use your strengths!"

Real Madrid's defense was in shambles. Though the team was packed with stars, they were disorganized and uncertain, unable to regain their rhythm.

In the 57th minute, the inevitable happened again.

Baraja's Strike

Atlético launched another attack, starting on the left flank. Aurelio, pushing forward with the ball, exchanged a clever one-two with Vicente before cutting inside. He then played another give-and-go with Deco, bursting into the final third with precision and pace.

By the time Aurelio received the return pass from Deco, he was just outside the penalty box. Surrounded by Claude Makélélé and Iván Helguera, Aurelio looked for an opening. Instead of a direct pass into the box, he opted for a horizontal pass that sliced through Real Madrid's defensive lines.

The ball landed perfectly in the right-side channel, where Rubén Baraja, Atlético's captain, was sprinting forward.

Baraja, not known for his speed, had timed his run impeccably. Finding himself unmarked, he controlled the ball and charged into the penalty area.

The Real Madrid defenders froze momentarily, as if stunned by the sudden attack. Baraja unleashed a thunderous shot, the ball whizzing past Casillas and smashing into the right side of the net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"

"3-1! Baraja scores!"

"This is astonishing!"

Shockwaves Through the Stadium

The goal sent shockwaves through Hampden Park.

"Incredible! Just incredible! Atlético Madrid have scored three goals in the opening 12 minutes of the second half!"

"Baraja's goal epitomizes the relentless spirit of this team. Against a Real Madrid side stacked with superstars, Atlético are running riot!"

Florentino Pérez looked completely shell-shocked. On the pitch, the Real Madrid players were equally dazed. Despite their experience and individual brilliance, they had no answer to Atlético's intensity.

A Strategic Adjustment

After the third goal, Yang Hao signaled his players to calm down and prioritize ball control.

The message was clear: hold the lead, don't overextend.

Real Madrid, however, weren't going to give up without a fight. Vicente del Bosque made his first substitution, bringing on Guti for Makélélé, pushing Raúl further up to partner Morientes in attack. Four minutes later, Steve McManaman replaced Salgado, with Del Bosque hoping to exploit the flanks.

But Atlético held firm.

Real Madrid's Growing Frustration

The scoreline and Atlético's newfound confidence weighed heavily on Real Madrid. They were growing desperate, and their attacks lacked cohesion. Long balls toward Morientes and Raúl were intercepted repeatedly by Lucio and Carvalho, who were playing with unshakable confidence.

The more Real Madrid pushed, the more space they left open for counterattacks.

Another Interception

In the 73rd minute, Helguera attempted a through ball to Guti, but Cambiasso anticipated the pass and intercepted it cleanly.

Cambiasso quickly released the ball to Deco, who turned and launched another counterattack. Deco's composure and vision in midfield were unmatched, and with a quick glance, he spotted Joaquín making a run on the right.

Joaquín's Breakaway

Joaquín sprinted down the flank, leaving Roberto Carlos trailing behind. With pinpoint accuracy, Deco delivered the ball to him. Joaquín controlled it effortlessly, cut inside, and headed toward the box.

Seeing Adriano and Baraja arriving in the middle, Joaquín feigned a cross before driving a low shot toward the near post.

Casillas, caught off guard, dove late but managed to push the ball out for a corner.

The Atlético fans applauded wildly, recognizing the sheer brilliance of the play.

Poised for Victory

With just over 15 minutes remaining, Atlético began to tighten their defense, thwarting Real Madrid's attempts to mount a comeback.

Every tackle, clearance, and interception drew cheers from the Atlético supporters, who could feel the Champions League trophy within their grasp.

Yang Hao remained animated on the sidelines, urging his players to stay focused. "Don't relax! It's not over yet!"

But deep down, even he knew: victory was near.

Former Real Madrid players found their second wind, especially as they saw their teammates stepping up. One such player, filled with confidence, decided to carry the ball forward himself after intercepting a loose pass, rather than immediately looking for support.

Helguera, desperate to recover possession after his misplaced pass, lunged at Cambiasso, who calmly evaded him with a deft sidestep and passed to Deco. As a natural attacking midfielder, Cambiasso's technical skill shone through. Instead of retreating to maintain his defensive position, Cambiasso made an uncharacteristic decision: he surged forward.

Deco, advancing quickly, fed Adriano, who was hungry for a hat-trick, a feat that would immortalize him in the Champions League final. However, Madrid's defenders smothered him, wary of his threat. Spotting Vicente making a diagonal run toward the left edge of the penalty arc, Adriano passed the ball.

Under pressure from McManaman, Vicente managed to get a touch on the ball, but his shooting angle had vanished. Forced to pass, he delivered the ball across the box to the unmarked Cambiasso, who had continued his bold run.

The Argentine midfielder controlled the ball with his weaker right foot and, with no defenders closing him down, struck a clean shot. Despite being a natural left-footer, the strike was nearly perfect, grazing the inside of the right post before nestling in the net.

4–1!

Madness at Hampden Park

The stadium erupted into chaos. Real Madrid fans stood in stunned disbelief, struggling to accept the implausible scoreline, while Atlético's supporters were completely unrestrained in their jubilation.

Four goals in one half—against Real Madrid—in a Champions League final!

The fourth goal's scorer? Esteban Cambiasso, a player once discarded by Madrid. The symbolism was impossible to ignore.

Cambiasso sprinted toward the stands beneath the VIP section, roaring his triumph directly at Florentino Pérez, the man who had let him go. His face was a mix of uncontainable joy and long-held frustration, his celebration a cathartic release.

A Dreamlike Scoreline

Yang Hao watched from the sidelines, still processing what was unfolding.

"4–1?!"

At halftime, he had dared to dream of a comeback. A 2–1 reversal, maybe. But this? This was surreal.

It was clear that Atlético had grown stronger, but such dominance in the second half? That seemed as much a testament to Real Madrid's unraveling as it was to Atlético's rise.

The Final Minutes

The last ten minutes of the match were a mere formality, turning into what pundits often call "garbage time."

Real Madrid launched attack after attack, desperate to salvage their dignity, but they lacked cohesion and clarity. Their confidence, shattered by Atlético's blitz, left them vulnerable and disorganized.

Yang Hao, seizing the opportunity, began substituting players to slow the game's tempo and chew through the clock. Every change drew boos from the Madrid faithful and thunderous applause from Atlético's fans.

The scoreline was too demoralizing. Even Madrid's superstars—men like Zidane and Figo—seemed resigned to their fate, unable to find the spark to turn things around.

As the final whistle approached, the body language of Madrid's players said it all: they were utterly defeated.

The Final Whistle

When Urs Meier, the referee, blew the final whistle, the roar from Atlético's contingent could likely be heard across Glasgow.

Yang Hao stood frozen for a moment, grappling with a storm of emotions.

One part of him wanted to leap into wild celebration, to run to Florentino Pérez and rub the defeat in his face. Another part, however, remained deeply reflective. 4–1 was a historic result, but it didn't fully reflect the gap between the two sides.

Real Madrid's squad still possessed greater individual talent, but Atlético had displayed superior heart, strategy, and teamwork.

More importantly, this victory wasn't just about the trophy; it was a milestone for the team. It cemented Atlético's legitimacy on the European stage and gave its players an unshakable belief in their own abilities.

The Champions of Europe

"It's over!"

"4–1!"

"Atlético Madrid are the champions of Europe!"

"Thanks to two goals from Adriano, plus strikes from Baraja and Cambiasso, Atlético have completed a stunning 4–1 comeback victory over Real Madrid!"

"This is Atlético's first-ever Champions League title, a historic moment for the club!"

The jubilant Atlético players sprinted toward their coach, enveloping Yang Hao in an ecstatic embrace. The chants of "¡Atleti! ¡Atleti!" reverberated throughout Hampden Park.

"This is a night no Atlético fan will ever forget. Yang Hao and his squad have written their names into the history books with one of the most remarkable performances ever seen in a Champions League final."

"And let's not forget—Yang Hao, at just 27 years old, has become the youngest coach in Champions League history to lift the trophy!"

"This is a record that may never be broken."

On the pitch, Atlético's players hoisted Yang Hao into the air, tossing him repeatedly as the crowd roared its approval.

A Celebration to Remember

The post-match scenes were unforgettable.

Cambiasso, the hero of the fourth goal, couldn't hide his tears of joy. Adriano, holding his brace ball, posed for pictures with his family. Captain Baraja led the team to the stands to celebrate with the traveling fans, holding the iconic Champions League trophy aloft.

Yang Hao, standing amidst his players, soaked in the moment.

For Atlético Madrid, this was more than just a victory. It was a statement to the world: "We belong among Europe's elite."

And for Yang Hao, this was just the beginning of what promised to be an extraordinary coaching legacy.

For the second time this season.

Yes, this was already the second time.

As Atlético Madrid lined up at the foot of the podium to "welcome" Real Madrid onto the stage to collect their runners-up medals, the usually lofty, swan-like demeanor of Los Blancos' superstars had turned into one of sheer humiliation.

Despite their illustrious careers and legendary reputations, losing repeatedly to their cross-city rivals in a single season was a bitter pill to swallow. Their pride had taken a beating like never before.

Miguel Gil and Enrique Cerezo, along with Atlético's upper management, surrounded Yang Hao near the sideline. The excitement among them was palpable.

This Champions League victory was more than just a trophy for Atlético—it represented an all-encompassing boost for the club.

The Financial Impact of Glory

Fernando Vázquez, the club's finance chief, shared some quick calculations with Yang Hao: Atlético's earnings from their Champions League campaign—including the winner's prize—were estimated to be between 28 and 30 million euros.

While that figure might seem meager compared to the staggering sums clubs rake in today, it was a significant windfall for Atlético at the time. For comparison, Real Madrid's sponsorship deal with Siemens alone netted them 10 million euros annually.

Why, then, did clubs fight so fiercely for the Champions League?

The answer was simple: before the era of globalization, commercial revenues for football clubs were modest. The financial rewards from the Champions League were irresistible, and beyond the prize money, the tournament presented an unparalleled opportunity to bolster a club's brand value.

Winning the Champions League meant increased ticket sales, elevated sponsorship values, and greater global visibility.

Take Manchester United, for example. A single Champions League triumph propelled their commercial growth into the stratosphere.

Would the same have happened if Valencia had won the trophy in 2000? Probably not. Success didn't just depend on winning; it depended on the club's marketing acumen.

For Atlético, the journey was clear:

Champions League prize money from UEFA: €30 million.

Eight sold-out home matches: a significant boost to matchday revenues.

Enhanced brand prestige: a chance to renegotiate sponsorship deals and attract new partnerships.

Fernando explained that player valuations would also skyrocket following the victory.

When Yang Hao took over two years ago, the combined market value of Atlético's squad barely reached €50 million. By midseason, Deloitte had valued the team at €170 million, and with this Champions League title, it was bound to exceed €200 million.

In just two years, the squad's market value had quadrupled.

Of course, success came with its challenges. Higher valuations meant higher salaries, bonuses, and transfer demands. For instance, the club had announced a lucrative reward scheme for the Champions League win, promising €100,000 per player.

"I assure you, the bonus payouts have already been secured," said Miguel Gil, trying to ease Yang Hao's concerns about ensuring that every player, coach, and staff member was rewarded.

Miguel added with a laugh, "Honestly, you care more about their bonuses than your own salary!"

Yang Hao chuckled. "That's leadership. Take care of your people, and they'll give you everything they've got."

"Carlos," Yang Hao said, turning to Carlos Leao, the head of marketing, "The hard work's on you now."

Carlos straightened up. "Don't worry! We're already planning a full-scale campaign. Next year will be monumental!"

Yang Hao smiled. The groundwork was laid. Now it was time for Atlético to soar.

The Trophy Ceremony

On the pitch, Atlético's players called Yang Hao to join them for the trophy presentation.

Adriano was named Man of the Match after his two-goal heroics. The 20-year-old Brazilian had proven himself a dominant force in front of goal, earning comparisons to a young Ronaldo Nazário—but with accolades surpassing what Ronaldo had achieved at the same age.

Real Madrid's players were first to step up and receive their silver medals. It was a bitter procession. For them, the Champions League final had been a nightmare, one that would leave a lasting scar.

Atlético followed. Yang Hao led his team to the podium, with captain Baraja taking the honor of lifting the trophy.

One notable absence from the presenters was Florentino Pérez, who seemed to have disappeared, likely unable to stomach witnessing Atlético's moment of glory.

As Baraja raised the trophy high, fireworks lit up Hampden Park, and the stadium erupted in cheers.

A Celebration for the Ages

The team celebrated on the pitch for over an hour before heading back to the locker room for another round of revelry. Eventually, the club urged them to wrap up and return to their hotel.

There, a lavish feast awaited. The chefs had prepared a banquet fit for champions.

For many of Atlético's players, however, the celebration was tempered by their upcoming commitments to the World Cup. Still, the team basked in their historic achievement.

Later that night, the team flew back to Madrid aboard an Emirates charter plane. Upon arrival, tens of thousands of fans greeted them at the airport.

The players boarded an open-top bus, parading through the streets of Madrid to Neptune Fountain and the Vicente Calderón stadium. With them were the four trophies they had secured that season:

Spanish Super Cup

UEFA Super Cup

Copa del Rey

Champions League

Global Recognition

Within hours of the final whistle, the world's media reacted to Atlético's triumph.

Reuters published an article titled: "Atlético Madrid Crowned Champions of Europe—Yang Hao Becomes a Legend."

The piece detailed the match, highlighting the first-half stalemate broken by Zidane's stunning strike, which had appeared to signal Real Madrid's dominance. But Yang Hao's halftime adjustments and motivational prowess turned the game on its head, leading to an emphatic second-half display.

"Yang Hao is the heart and soul of this Atlético team. At just 27 years old, his tactical acumen and inspirational leadership have earned him the admiration of players and pundits alike. The Champions League trophy is a fitting reward for his brilliance," the article concluded.

The Associated Press also praised Yang Hao's influence with the headline: "Yang Hao's Halftime Magic Stuns Real Madrid."

"Now the world is left wondering—what exactly did Yang Hao say to his players at halftime to spark such a miraculous turnaround?"

The Future

As Atlético celebrated their historic victory, one thing was clear: the Champions League trophy wasn't just an ending—it was the beginning of a new chapter.

For Yang Hao, it was a defining moment. And for Atlético Madrid, it was a declaration to the world:

The era of Los Rojiblancos had arrived.

AFP: Zidane's Stunning Strike Shines, Real Madrid Fall Short in Europe

The French news agency lavished praise on Zidane's jaw-dropping goal, calling it one of the most spectacular strikes in Champions League history. Zidane's moment of brilliance was a testament to his skill and reinforced his status as one of the game's greats.

However, AFP subtly criticized Figo, suggesting that the former World Player of the Year had a lackluster performance compared to Zidane's dazzling display.

The article also highlighted Atlético's extraordinary transformation during halftime, crediting Yang Hao's tactical genius for the team's ability to overturn the deficit with a relentless surge in the second half. While Real Madrid's loss was lamented, AFP concluded that Zidane's performance further cemented his reputation as the best player in the world.

UK Media Shower Praise on Atlético

In the host country of the final, British outlets like The Times, The Independent, and The Guardian all hailed Atlético Madrid's triumph. Even The Sun, despite its past feud with Yang Hao, acknowledged his pivotal role in orchestrating the victory.

Almost every British publication agreed that Yang Hao's halftime adjustments revitalized Atlético, enabling them to outplay a star-studded Real Madrid side in the second half.

Italian Media Critique Real Madrid's Galácticos

Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport used the defeat as an opportunity to critique Real Madrid's "Galácticos" policy, arguing that the Champions League final demonstrated that assembling a squad of superstars alone doesn't guarantee success.

"Florentino Pérez needs a wake-up call!" the paper exclaimed, emphasizing the need for a more balanced and scientific approach to squad building.

La Repubblica couldn't resist taking a dig at Juventus. Zidane, who scored Real's only goal, and Van der Sar, Atlético's heroic goalkeeper, were both former Juventus players. The paper jokingly referred to the final as a "Juventus Civil War" and marveled at how both players had thrived after leaving the Turin club.

Van der Sar, in particular, drew acclaim for his exceptional performance. Since leaving Juventus for Atlético, the Dutch goalkeeper had rediscovered his best form, prompting soul-searching within Italian football circles. La Repubblica hinted that his struggles in Italy weren't due to his ability but systemic issues at Juventus.

Meanwhile, La Stampa heaped praise on Adriano, calling him a hybrid of Ronaldo and Vieri.

"Adriano combines Ronaldo's technical brilliance with Vieri's physical dominance," it wrote. His two goals in the final—a poacher's finish and a surging run—showcased his versatility.

Portuguese Media Celebrate Deco

In Portugal, Record focused on Deco's vital contribution. The Brazilian-born playmaker, now a Portuguese international, had shone in the Champions League final, helping Atlético defeat Figo's Real Madrid.

"Some call him the Brazilian Zidane," the outlet wrote. "But the final showed the difference between the two: Zidane's brilliance lies in moments of genius, like his stunning strike. Deco's greatness comes from his relentless work rate and consistent playmaking."

The article quoted Yang Hao's defense of his player: "Deco isn't the Brazilian Zidane. He's Deco."

Germany Awed by La Liga's Dominance

German media focused on La Liga's continued supremacy in Europe. Three Spanish teams had reached the Champions League semifinals, and the final itself was an all-Spanish affair—just like the Real Madrid vs. Valencia showdown three years earlier.

"Spanish football is setting the standard in Europe," one outlet declared, noting how clubs across England and Germany were now looking to recruit Spanish coaches to bring La Liga's tactical expertise to their leagues.

Global Impact

Atlético's victory reverberated far beyond Europe.

In North America, the club's marketing chief, Carlos Leao, saw an opportunity to capitalize on the win. Having partnered with companies like Yahoo to boost the club's presence, Leao believed the Champions League triumph could further open doors in the U.S. market.

In Asia, where the upcoming World Cup was set to take place, the win fueled excitement about Atlético's pre-season tour in Japan and South Korea. With the club's profile rising, their Asian campaign was now guaranteed to attract massive attention.

Unexpected Headlines in the Transfer Market

As Atlético basked in their triumph, the transfer market produced a surprising twist that left Yang Hao scratching his head.

The Paraguayan international Carlos Gamarra, who had been part of the deal that brought Adriano to Atlético, had resurfaced in Europe—joining Inter Milan at the age of 31.

"I'm Spartacus," Yang Hao joked when he heard the news.

Gamarra had been a peripheral figure during his time at Atlético, and Yang Hao admitted he hadn't paid much attention to him. Yet now, the media were framing him as a "former Atlético star" whose departure had paved the way for Adriano's arrival.

"I don't know if this is comedy or tragedy," Yang Hao quipped. "He was part of one of our weakest defenses ever. How will he survive in Serie A?"

Miguel Gil provided some context: "Inter signed him because Paraguay's national team coach is Cesare Maldini, and he's been calling Gamarra a 'defensive artist.'"

Yang Hao laughed. "Makes sense now. Inter does love their South American center-backs."

World Cup Fever and Ronaldo's Comeback

Elsewhere, the transfer market buzzed with speculation about Ronaldo. Reports suggested that Manchester United were considering a loan deal for the Brazilian striker, whose injuries and conflicts with coach Héctor Cúper had left him at a crossroads at Inter.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo's compatriot Ronaldinho was stealing the spotlight in Brazil's pre-World Cup friendlies. The young star had dazzled with a brace against a Catalonia XI, fueling comparisons to the legendary number 10s of the past.

Adriano, despite his Champions League heroics, was expected to play second fiddle to Ronaldo at the World Cup. Similarly, Atlético's other Brazilian stars—Deco, Belletti, and Aurelio—were likely to feature as substitutes.

No one, however, could foresee that this World Cup would become Ronaldo's redemption arc, culminating in his triumphant return to glory.

Real Madrid's Transfer Strategy

Back in Spain, Real Madrid were already plotting their response to the humiliation. Reports linked them to Lazio's Hernán Crespo, with the club rumored to be offering €30 million plus a choice of Savio, Flavio, Morientes, or McManaman to secure the Argentine striker.

Florentino Pérez wasn't giving up on his Galácticos dream.

But for now, the night—and the world's applause—belonged to Atlético Madrid.

The transfer rumors surrounding Atlético Madrid players were growing louder, and fans across Spain were divided in their reactions.

While Real Madrid's potential move to include Morientes as a bargaining chip for Crespo caused a stir, many Madridistas felt insulted. Morientes might not have been a world-class striker, but he was a loyal servant of the club, and using him as "trade fodder" didn't sit well.

Barcelona, however, went even bolder. Reports suggested their offer for Crespo included an astronomical salary of €4.5 million annually, a figure considered outrageous at the time.

As someone who had traveled from 2023 to this era, Yang Hao understood the scale of this sum. While €4.5 million seemed reasonable from a future perspective—eventually becoming a standard wage for top players—it was undeniably exorbitant in 2002.

Meanwhile, Lazio reportedly demanded €55 million for Crespo. Juventus had offered €45 million plus Edgar Davids, keeping the Argentine striker at the center of Europe's transfer frenzy.

Atlético Players in Spain's National Team

Spain's national team heading to Asia for the upcoming World Cup featured a strong Atlético contingent. Baraja, Vicente, Joaquín, and Marchena all made the cut. Marchena's inclusion notably displaced Barcelona's veteran defender Abelardo.

There was significant fanfare for Xabi Alonso, whose stellar performances had sparked calls for his inclusion. However, head coach Camacho omitted both Xabi and Valencia's standout midfielder David Albelda from the 23-man squad.

Yang Hao had mixed feelings about Camacho's choices, particularly regarding Spain's defensive midfield options. While Spain had plenty of firepower, their defensive stability relied heavily on midfield anchors. The absences of Sergio (Deportivo), Xabi Alonso, and Albelda left Spain leaning on Baraja and Helguera—who might also be deployed as a central defender.

Despite Yang Hao's reservations, he couldn't do much. Communication with Camacho had been minimal, and the Spanish coach's arrogance didn't sit well with him.

Atlético's Transfer Goals: Retain and Reinforce

Yang Hao had outlined two key priorities for the summer transfer window:

Retain the squad's core players by focusing on contract renewals.

Facilitate Spanish citizenship applications for the club's South American players to free up non-EU slots in the squad.

A smooth citizenship process would allow Atlético to integrate promising talents from their B team, which had just finished third in the Segunda División. Key contributors like Fernando Torres, Kaká, David Villa, Gabi, Antonio López, Marcos Senna, and Didier Drogba had all impressed, making their promotion to the first team inevitable.

Senna's case was particularly urgent; without Spanish citizenship, he couldn't feature for the senior team due to non-EU limitations.

President Enrique Cerezo assured Yang Hao,

"I've spoken to Prime Minister Aznar and officials in the Civil Registry. They've promised to expedite the process."

Cerezo's connections weren't limited to government officials. His election as the inaugural president of the reformed La Liga Board of Directors was a testament to his influence. This elevated Atlético's stature within Spanish football and ensured greater leverage in key negotiations.

The Threat of Player Poaching

However, retaining players was proving challenging. Miguel Gil revealed a pile of faxes from clubs across Europe, expressing interest in Atlético's stars.

"These vultures are trying to strip us bare!" Gil exclaimed.

Notable inquiries included:

Valencia for Vicente.

Sevilla wanting to reacquire José Antonio Reyes.

Multiple clubs looking to loan or buy Kaká and Torres.

Sevilla's pitch was particularly shrewd. Knowing Vicente had locked down Atlético's left-wing position, they hoped to lure Reyes with promises of a starting role. Similar tactics were being employed for Kaká and Torres.

Fortunately, Atlético's robust rotation policy meant players like Torres had accumulated significant playing time—27 appearances in the previous season, albeit mostly as a substitute. This helped convince the youngster to stay and continue developing under Yang Hao's tutelage.

However, three offers caught Yang Hao's attention:

Barcelona and Inter Milan bidding for Aurelio.

Manchester United, led by Sir Alex Ferguson, making a low-ball €8 million bid for Van der Sar.

Interest in Aurelio and Van der Sar

Aurelio's stellar performances, particularly in crucial matches, had caught the eyes of Barcelona and Inter Milan. Inter's interest stemmed from Héctor Cúper's admiration for the Brazilian left-back dating back to his Valencia days. Barcelona, having suffered at Aurelio's hands, now saw him as a solution to their defensive frailties.

Meanwhile, Van der Sar's situation was even trickier. Reports suggested Barcelona were eyeing him due to Van Gaal's preference for Dutch players, but it was Ferguson's €8 million offer that really irked Yang Hao.

"Is he trying to insult us?" Yang Hao fumed.

Miguel Gil tried to calm him down,

"He's 31, which is old for a goalkeeper."

Yang Hao wasn't buying it. "Last year, Inter paid €26.5 million for Toldo, who was 29! And Van der Sar's an actual Champions League winner. €8 million is a joke!"

Unimpressed, Yang Hao instructed,

"Ignore them. Let Ferguson stew!"

Although €8 million might have been fair for a 31-year-old goalkeeper in 2002, Yang Hao knew Van der Sar had at least eight more years at the top level. Losing him would disrupt the defensive chemistry and create unnecessary headaches.

But then, there was a certain Petr Čech in the Czech Republic to think about...

Ferguson Gets Involved Personally

Despite Atlético's reluctance to sell, Sir Alex Ferguson wasn't giving up.

While Yang Hao vacationed in the United States with his girlfriend, Manchester United intensified their pursuit of Van der Sar, escalating negotiations directly with Atlético's board.

Yang Hao would soon have to face yet another battle to retain his squad in a summer already filled with challenges.

Sir Alex Ferguson was relentless in his pursuit of Edwin van der Sar.

After Manchester United's humbling elimination in the Champions League, Van der Sar's stellar performance for Atlético Madrid had left a lasting impression on Ferguson. Unwilling to settle for less, Atlético set an audacious asking price for their veteran goalkeeper.

The reasoning was clear: if Inter Milan paid €26.5 million for Toldo, why not value Van der Sar similarly? Though older, Van der Sar had a wealth of experience and had just won the Champions League.

Atlético's message was firm: €25 million, no negotiations.

United knew they were being squeezed, but Ferguson, desperate to secure his man, didn't back down. He personally called Van der Sar during his vacation, expressing his admiration and convincing the Dutch keeper of his vital role at Old Trafford.

Ferguson even enlisted Ruud van Nistelrooy, Van der Sar's national teammate, to sway him. Finally, Van der Sar made the call to Yang Hao.

Van der Sar's Call Interrupts New York Negotiations

Yang Hao was in New York, inspecting properties at Trump Tower, hosted personally by Donald Trump himself.

The trip wasn't just a sightseeing tour. Atlético was considering establishing an office in the U.S., with New York as the preferred location.

True to his personality, Trump was a flamboyant host. He showcased his penthouse and even tried to persuade Yang Hao to purchase a luxury property in his building.

Yang Hao was intrigued but not for the reasons Trump expected. Instead, he mused over a potential relationship with Trump's daughter, Ivanka.

"If I marry her and Trump becomes president, what kind of envoy would I be when I return to China?"

Sadly, Ivanka was nowhere to be seen, and Yang Hao left with nothing but the surreal experience of dining with Trump.

Back at his hotel, Yang Hao's phone buzzed with a call from Van der Sar. The goalkeeper's plea and Ferguson's persistence were unmistakable.

Soon after, Ferguson himself called.

Yang Hao offered one final compromise: €20 million. Take it or leave it.

Ferguson Agrees to a Record Fee

Ferguson was initially reluctant. "If I sign him at this price, the world will think I've lost my mind," he said.

Yang Hao retorted with conviction,

"The world's already crazy. But trust me, you won't regret this. One day, you'll thank me."

Ferguson was skeptical but ultimately agreed. Manchester United officially signed Van der Sar for €20 million, sparking shockwaves across European football.

Critics were quick to lambast the move. At 31 years old, Van der Sar's price tag seemed absurd. Ferguson, however, defended his decision, stating,

"A goalkeeper's prime often begins in his thirties. Van der Sar has at least five more great years ahead of him."

Yang Hao chuckled privately—he knew Van der Sar would be a top performer until 40.

Atlético's Backup Plan: Palop Joins for €1.5 Million

Atlético wasted no time. They swiftly signed Andrés Palop from Valencia for €1.5 million. The experienced Spanish goalkeeper was a bargain addition to strengthen the position.

Meanwhile, Yang Hao considered recalling Petr Čech from his loan spell. However, the Czech goalkeeper would take up a non-EU slot, complicating squad registration.

Yang Hao's vision was clear: if Čech joined, he and Palop would compete for the No. 1 spot, ensuring depth in the position.

Shockwaves in the Transfer Market

The Van der Sar transfer wasn't the only blockbuster move. Manchester United simultaneously announced the signing of Rio Ferdinand for €46 million from Leeds United, a record fee for a defender.

Combined with the Van der Sar deal, the Red Devils spent over €66 million in just two signings.

While Ferdinand's price was somewhat justified given his age and potential, Van der Sar's €20 million fee left pundits and fans scratching their heads.

Meanwhile, at the World Cup…

As European clubs reshuffled their rosters, the 2002 FIFA World Cup kicked off in South Korea and Japan on May 31st.

The tournament began with a stunning upset: Senegal defeated defending champions France 1-0 in the opening match.

Without an injured Zinedine Zidane, France looked toothless. Senegal's El Hadji Diouf and Papa Bouba Diop were the stars of the night, with Diop scoring the lone goal.

French coach Roger Lemerre had boldly declared,

"Anything less than the trophy is a failure."

Instead, his team became a cautionary tale of arrogance, crashing out in the group stage with one draw, two losses, and zero goals scored.

Argentina, another pre-tournament favorite, also fell flat. Plagued by injuries and tactical missteps, Marcelo Bielsa's team failed to advance past the group stage, securing just one win.

Brazil Shines Amidst Chaos

In stark contrast, Brazil dazzled. Despite a shaky qualification campaign, the "Three Rs"—Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho— electrified the tournament. Brazil breezed through the group stage, scoring goals with ease and silencing critics.

For Yang Hao, the World Cup was an emotional rollercoaster. With his Atlético stars playing prominent roles for Spain and Brazil, he watched intently, knowing their performances would elevate the club's global profile.

The summer of 2002 was proving to be a transformative one for Atlético Madrid—and the world of football.

END CHAPTER

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