The air in the training ground is thick with anticipation. The Ajax squad is in high spirits, but beneath the energy, there's a palpable undercurrent of tension. Everyone can feel it. The quarterfinals of the National U-23 Championship are just around the corner, and this time, it's not just about the individual performances. It's about proving their place in the competition.
Femi stands off to the side for a moment, catching his breath after a particularly grueling drill. His goal against Utrecht is still fresh in his mind, but today's focus isn't on past achievements. Today's about moving forward.
"I've shown them what I can do. Now, it's about consistency," Femi thinks to himself. "The U-23 Championship is only just beginning, but I've already made my mark."
Despite the intense training session, there's no denying the pressure. This match, the first in the knockout rounds, could decide his future. Femi feels the weight of that expectation.
Later that afternoon, after a particularly tough training session, Femi stands in the locker room, his muscles aching. It's been a long, exhausting day, but the hardest part is yet to come.
As the team prepares to head out, the medical staff enters, and the room quiets.
"Liam's cleared," the team doctor announces. "He won't start, but he's available for the bench."
Femi's heart lifts at the news. His best friend, the one person who's had his back through thick and thin, will be there.
Liam, despite his injury, hasn't lost his smile. He walks up to Femi, clapping him on the shoulder.
"Ready to show them who's boss?" Liam asks with that familiar grin.
Femi smiles back, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. "I've got this," he replies, knowing Liam's presence will guide him through whatever comes next.
The next day is tense, as the team prepares for their final training session before the quarterfinals. The mood is more serious now. There are no more friendly matches, no more warming up for the competition. This is the real deal.
Coach Bakker runs a tight ship, fine-tuning the tactical drills, ensuring everyone knows their role to perfection. Lars de Groot stays close to Femi, guiding him through the finer details of positioning and decision-making.
Femi's internal thoughts mirror the intensity of the moment: "I've been drilled into this position — no more panic. I trust my instincts now. The mistakes are fading. It's my time to shine."
The drills get harder as the final training session presses on. The stakes are higher, and the pressure intensifies. But there's something different in Femi now. He feels sharper. Confident.
It's time to prove it.
The following morning, Coach Bakker calls the team together in the hotel lobby for a quick team talk. His face is serious, and the usual light banter is replaced by a quiet intensity that matches the moment.
"Alright, men," Coach Bakker begins, his voice firm. "The day has come, and our opponents are Feyenoord. This match, this tournament, it's bigger than anything we've faced so far. Ajax and Feyenoord — the rivalry is well known. The entire football world will be watching. These are the games that define a career."
The players stand tall, listening closely as Coach Bakker continues.
"You all know what Feyenoord brings to the table. They're a tough team. They'll fight for every inch of space. And they've got some players that will test you — especially you, Femi."
Femi's heart skips a beat at his name, but he stands tall, meeting the coach's eyes with determination.
"We don't just play for the badge on our chests," Coach Bakker adds. "We play for the history that comes with it. Ajax versus Feyenoord is one of the greatest rivalries in football. You can't take a moment for granted. It's not just a match — it's a battle for pride."
With those final words, Coach Bakker steps back, and the team disperses to prepare. The room buzzes with energy, but beneath that energy is a deep-seated resolve. This is their moment. And for Femi, it's his chance to prove that he belongs among the best.
The scene shifts to Feyenoord's training ground. The camera pans across the pitch, where the Feyenoord squad is preparing for their own challenge. The manager, Mark de Wit, stands confidently before the press, ready to answer questions about the upcoming clash.
"We've been preparing for this," he says, voice steady, yet filled with quiet intensity. "Ajax may have their young prodigies, but we've got experience and grit. Our team knows what's at stake."
After the interview, the camera focuses on the key players for Feyenoord. Max van Dijk stands in the center, his eyes narrowed in focus. His movements are deliberate, and his posture commands attention. He's ready for the fight ahead.
Max's internal thoughts reveal his drive and determination:
"Ajax. I've faced them before, and it's never easy. But this time, it's different. We've got the better team. We've got me."
His gaze flicks to his teammates, Jordy de Graaf and Mats Janssen. The trio shares an unspoken bond. Together, they know they can tear through any team, but it's Ajax that looms large in his mind.
Max watches Femi's highlights from their last match, taking note of every detail. "Their full-back, Femi Adeleye, is fast, but I've seen how he can be rattled. He's young — still learning. I'll use that to my advantage. There's no way he can keep up with Jordy when he's on the ball. And Mats will finish any chance we give him. We're going to break them down, piece by piece."
Max pauses, his gaze hardening. The challenge ahead is clear. "I've been training for this. I'll make sure Femi knows who's boss."
As the Feyenoord squad breaks off into smaller groups, Max lingers for a moment, steely-eyed and unwavering. He knows this match is more than just a game. It's a chance to prove himself, to show that he — and Feyenoord — will be the ones to advance.
To be continued…