Soccer: I became Bruno Fernandes.

Chapter 314: Comeback Victory

The first half ended with a score of 1-1. Normally, a half with two goals would suggest an exciting match. However, anyone watching this game would disagree. The first half was dominated by fierce tackles and intense defense, with players frequently hitting the ground and the atmosphere being highly agitated. If not for the two late goals, the first half would have been marked by low technical quality and a rough playing style.

"Honestly, I don't have much hope for an exciting second half," said BBC's veteran commentator John Motson to his colleague, Liverpool legend Alan Hansen.

"Objectively, a 1-1 draw is acceptable for Iceland," Alan Hansen responded. "The real question is whether Santos will settle for just one point."

The commentators believed that as a stronger team, Portugal should aim for more ambitious goals.

...

The second half began with both teams continuing their midfield tussle. Around the 60th minute, Portugal's coach Santos made the first move, substituting Joao Mario with newly crowned FIFA Ballon d'Or winner Bruno Fernandes, who took up the right winger position alongside Ronaldo and Nani, forming a three-pronged attack.

"Santos doesn't seem content with just one point from Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. Now it's up to Halgrimsson to respond," noted the commentator.

The camera panned to Iceland's coach Halgrimsson and then to substitute Eidur Gudjohnsen. Clearly, if Halgrimsson also wanted to push for a win, he might bring on Gudjohnsen. The 38-year-old veteran, who once played for top clubs like Chelsea and Barcelona, was a notable figure in Icelandic football.

Gudjohnsen seemed eager to play, anxiously watching the match and whispering to his teammates.

...

With Bruno now on the field, Portugal's attack intensified. About ten minutes later, Halgrimsson reacted by sending Gudjohnsen and young defender Haukurson to warm up.

"Substituting Gudjohnsen or Haukurson shows two possible strategies from Halgrimsson," commented John Motson.

Santos noticed the movements on Iceland's bench. Substituting Gudjohnsen would indicate an offensive approach, while bringing on Haukurson would suggest a defensive stance, accepting the 1-1 draw.

In the 71st minute, Halgrimsson made his move, bringing on Haukurson for the struggling Arnason. Santos quickly countered by substituting the fatigued Moutinho with the fast and powerful Renato Sanches, further boosting their attack.

Halgrimsson stood on the sidelines, contemplating whether to bolster his defense or to seize the opportunity to attack.

...

At that moment, Bruno suddenly passed the ball to the left wing, where Renato Sanches used his speed to bypass Saevarsson, then cut inside and feigned a shot before passing diagonally. Guerreiro, who had drawn the defenders' attention, sent a reverse pass to Bruno, who took a powerful shot that soared into the stands.

The crowd at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard jeered, but Icelandic fans were secretly relieved despite their outward mockery. They were clearly worried, as this near-miss had given them a scare.

Realizing that Portugal's attack was intensifying, Halgrimsson decided to play it safe, opting for a defensive strategy by substituting Saevarsson with Ingason.

...

Santos, arms folded and brow furrowed, faced the challenge of breaking down Iceland's reinforced defense. He considered his remaining options on the bench: veteran Quaresma, Rafa Silva, and the young Eder.

Suddenly, the crowd's reaction drew Santos' attention. He looked up, clenched his fists, and then jumped with excitement as the cheers mixed with louder jeers. Bruno had resolved his dilemma.

Bruno's pressing led to a steal in the front, quickly launching a counterattack. Nani dribbled at high speed, evading Haukurson's tackle and passing to Ronaldo. Ronaldo held off the defender and flicked the ball to the incoming Bruno.

"Block his shot!" yelled Iceland's goalkeeper Halldorsson.

Bruno, renowned as the new Ballon d'Or winner, faked a shot, drawing defenders towards him. Instead, he deftly passed the ball diagonally, finding Renato Sanches, who cut in from the left and unleashed a powerful shot past the goalkeeper.

"Renato Sanches!!!" shouted BBC commentator John Motson as Sanches' shot flew into the net, causing the net to bulge.

"GOOOOOOOOOOAL!!!!! Renato Sanches! Renato Sanches! He has scored for Portugal! 2-1! Portugal has taken the lead at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard!" exclaimed Motson. "This counterattack started with Bruno's interception, involving Bruno, Nani, Ronaldo, Bruno again, and finally Renato Sanches."

...

With Portugal leading 2-1 in the 81st minute, the players celebrated wildly. This goal was crucial, and if it secured the win, it would reward everyone's efforts.

"This is a critical goal. Including stoppage time, there are about ten minutes left. If Portugal wins, this will be a significant victory, starting the tournament on a high note," said the commentator.

As Portuguese players celebrated, Icelandic players looked dejected. Conceding at this stage was a severe blow to their morale.

Halgrimsson's defensive substitutions had signaled his intent to hold on for a draw. Accepting a point against a strong team like Portugal was a pragmatic decision. However, falling behind after such conservative tactics was frustrating for the team and their coach.

(End of Chapter)

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