Chapter 27 - Chapter 27:

Chapter 27:

"Jimmy, what's your take?"

As Yang Hao, with a slight buzz from the drinks, left Old Trafford hand-in-hand with Jessica Alba, Ferguson turned to his assistant coach, Jimmy Ryan.

Jimmy Ryan, 56, was also a Scotsman. A Manchester United youth academy graduate and former player, he had served the club in various capacities for years. After Brian Kidd left, Ferguson brought Ryan into the first team setup, although Steve McClaren briefly replaced him as assistant coach. Throughout it all, Ryan remained Ferguson's trusted right-hand man.

"Full of youthful arrogance," Ryan said coolly, his disdain evident.

It was clear he didn't hold Yang Hao in high regard.

Ferguson gave Ryan a side glance, silently noting his assistant's bias. Competent but arrogant, Ferguson thought. This was one of the reasons he had brought McClaren on board previously—Ryan struggled to manage the dressing room dynamics.

"At 26, with a Spanish league title, a Copa del Rey, and European and Super Cup victories to his name, anyone would be a little cocky," Ferguson said dismissively, almost as if defending Yang Hao.

Ryan's eyes flickered with disbelief. Yang Hao's success isn't all that remarkable. With Atlético's squad strength at the time, I could have saved them from relegation too, Ryan thought.

"And then the transfers," Ryan continued, his voice laced with skepticism. "Selling big names, raking in a fortune, then splurging to assemble a dream team. With that freedom, anyone could succeed."

Ferguson didn't respond but instead offered a knowing smile. Ryan's reaction was hardly unique—many in the football world were dismissive of Yang Hao's meteoric rise. They believed his achievements were more about timing and luck than skill or ingenuity.

"If you think someone's success is too easy, and you believe you could do the same, that's proof you can't," Ferguson mused internally. Yang Hao's trajectory might appear straightforward, but Ferguson recognized the subtle complexities.

While others scoffed at Yang's tactical prowess, Ferguson respected his strategic foresight. Yang wasn't the first in La Liga to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, but he had an uncanny ability to foresee its potential. He had the audacity to adapt Atlético's system when others hesitated.

This season, Yang was already experimenting with a 4-3-3 system. Matches against Roma and Bayern demonstrated Atlético's daring, electrifying football.

Ferguson saw in Yang Hao a remarkable eye for talent and a deft touch in team-building—qualities even he could admit were superior to his own.

"Head-to-Head Against Us?"

"He wants to go head-to-head with us?" Ryan sneered, dismissing Yang Hao's supposed strategy.

"He might have to," Ferguson replied, deep in thought. "They've drawn two matches in a row. With the next game at home, they'll need to push for points."

Ryan nodded. It was a valid observation.

"But let's wait and see," Ferguson said, his tone cautious. There was still plenty of time before the clash with Atlético. Much could change.

The Scotsman, however, had his own issues to resolve. United's dressing room was fractious. Several players had grumbled about Verón's prominent role, while Nicky Butt's reduced playing time was a sore point for the Class of '92 loyalists.

Butt, a longtime Ferguson favorite, was undoubtedly talented. But his classic British midfield style lacked Verón's finesse in controlling tempo and distributing the ball.

Then there was Beckham.

Victoria! Ferguson cursed internally. With Christmas approaching, Victoria Beckham was up to her old tricks, pushing David to prioritize off-field endeavors like fashion shows.

Commercial department complaints aside, Ferguson saw storm clouds forming. He feared that David Beckham's off-field distractions might eventually lead to an irreparable rift with the club.

And just as he was pondering these challenges, his gaze fell on six empty bottles on his desk.

How on earth did that kid drink six bottles? Ferguson thought bitterly, the sting of wasted fine wine cutting deeper than the football politics at Old Trafford.

"That's it!" he swore to himself. "If I ever invite him for drinks again, I'm no better than a dog!"

Training in Dubai

Yang Hao spent a couple of leisurely days in London, garnering some attention from tabloids before heading back to Madrid after Christmas.

Once Atlético regrouped, they flew to Dubai for a week-long winter training camp. The players returned in good shape, thanks to the coaching staff's careful planning and the short holiday break.

For many players, the World Cup loomed large on the horizon, fueling their determination.

During the camp, Yang Hao received a call from Brazil's national team coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari.

With Atlético's meteoric rise, Scolari had begun paying close attention to the squad.

Defender Lucio was already a mainstay for Brazil, while Aurelio and Belletti served as backups to Roberto Carlos and Cafu, respectively. Adriano was also a key forward for the Seleção, though Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho remained the team's first-choice attack.

Scolari was particularly curious about Deco and Kaka.

Deco's brilliance as Atlético's midfield maestro was impossible to ignore. Meanwhile, Kaka's flashes of genius in La Liga, especially off the bench, caught Scolari's eye.

As Brazil traditionally included at least one prodigious talent in every World Cup squad, Kaka was a prime candidate.

Scolari's inquiries signaled that Atlético's influence had transcended club football, with their players now becoming integral to the world stage.

Yang Hao's heart swelled with pride. If I can elevate these players to the World Cup, I'll have done my job.

Scolari's Brazil had barely scraped through the World Cup qualifiers, and now the team faced pressing issues, particularly in midfield. Gilberto Silva was solid defensively but lacked creativity in organizing attacks. Juninho Paulista was past his prime, and Scolari's attempts to integrate Kleberson hadn't yielded significant results. Deco's all-around midfield capabilities offered Scolari a new option.

This shift was another ripple effect of Yang Hao's influence.

In Yang's original timeline, Deco had been shining at Porto, but that was merely in the Portuguese league. Now, Deco was a core player for Atlético Madrid, the reigning Spanish league and UEFA Cup champions, who had also advanced to the second phase of the Champions League group stage. Such a résumé made Deco an enticing prospect for the Brazilian national team.

Yang Hao understood the situation well. In the previous timeline, Scolari hadn't leaned heavily on Kleberson because of his limited offensive capabilities. While Brazil's attacking trident (Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho) was unparalleled, the Gilberto Silva-Kleberson pairing in midfield was too conservative. Initially, Scolari's plan had been to pair Gilberto Silva with Juninho Paulista.

During their discussion, Yang Hao offered Scolari a suggestion:

"Use Deco. He can unleash the full attacking potential of the front three, giving them the freedom to focus entirely on offense."

"Players like Deco don't stand out, but they can be among the most crucial players on the pitch," Yang emphasized.

In return, Yang secured Scolari's promise to accommodate Atlético Madrid during Brazil's World Cup preparations.

"We've contributed so much talent to the Brazilian national team. It would be downright unfair if you didn't cut us some slack," Yang joked.

Even Gilberto Silva had once been on Yang's radar, though Atlético had been unable to sign him due to foreign player quotas.

Scolari agreed with Yang's insights and immediately contacted Deco and Kaka, notifying them of their call-ups to the Brazilian national team.

Deco and Kaka were ecstatic. That night, they knocked on Yang Hao's door to express their heartfelt thanks. Deco, in particular, was overjoyed. At 24 years old, he knew his time to break into the star-studded Brazilian squad was running out.

"Keep up the good work," Yang encouraged. "If you maintain your form in the second half of the season, you'll definitely make the World Cup squad."

Yang had grown accustomed to seeing the changes his presence caused. Deco's call-up to Brazil was just another domino in the chain of events set in motion by his arrival. With Deco now part of the Seleção, Brazil's strength reached terrifying levels.

The attacking trident of Ronaldo, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho.

A midfield with Deco and Gilberto Silva.

A defense anchored by Lucio and Edmilson, with Roberto Carlos and Cafu patrolling the flanks.

Is there any team in the world that can stop this lineup? Yang Hao wondered.

"Luis said he'll personally come to Spain to watch us play," Deco said, his voice full of excitement.

It was expected. National team coaches, with relatively few matches in a year, often spent their time scouting players and analyzing club strategies.

As Deco and Kaka celebrated their call-ups, Yang Hao's thoughts turned to another Brazilian in his squad—Marcos Senna.

At 25 years old, Senna's path to the national team seemed far more arduous. While Deco had made his breakthrough at 24, Senna's current role as a starter in Spain's second division and occasional appearances in La Liga and the Champions League reflected Yang Hao's goodwill more than anything else.

Though Senna was talented, he still wasn't at the level required for the Brazilian national team, especially with someone like Gilberto Silva ahead of him.

"All the more reason to give it your all at Camp Nou," Yang encouraged his players. "Show Scolari what you're capable of!"

The likes of Deco and Kaka were eager to rise to the challenge.

A Quick Recharge in the Middle East

The week-long training camp in Dubai primarily focused on fitness, serving as a mid-season recharge.

Atlético played just one friendly match against a UAE club select team. With tight schedules across Europe compressing the winter break, most clubs couldn't spare the time to travel to the Middle East. Even Bayern Munich had canceled their plans, leaving Atlético with few high-profile opponents.

Spanish media criticized the camp, calling it frivolous.

When Atlético returned to Madrid, La Liga action had already resumed.

Sevilla kicked things off with a 2-0 away win over Villarreal, while Celta Vigo drew 2-2 at home against Rayo Vallecano.

The day's marquee match saw Real Madrid host Deportivo La Coruña. Morientes, Zidane, and Raul each scored, giving Real a commanding 3-1 victory. Raul also contributed an assist, while Figo and Roberto Carlos delivered key passes.

The performance left Spain in awe.

Marca headlined: "Deportivo wasn't weak; Real Madrid was just too strong!"

AS declared: "Raul and Zidane: The Kings of the Bernabéu!"

Media outlets celebrated Real Madrid's continued dominance. With 18 wins and just one loss from 19 matches, Los Blancos had set a new record for the best-ever first half of a La Liga season.

Following the match, Real Madrid's board held its 2001 annual awards ceremony. Florentino Pérez was named the club's Person of the Year, an accolade that reflected the fans' immense satisfaction with his leadership.

Pérez accepted the award with pride and announced the club's entry into its centenary celebrations, culminating on March 6 with the Copa del Rey final—a match he promised Real Madrid would win.

"The coming months will be a festival for Madridistas around the world!" he proclaimed.

Pérez also revealed that the club's financial troubles were over. The successful renegotiation of agreements regarding the old sports city had placed Real Madrid on solid ground.

What's more, Pérez hinted at ambitious transfer plans for the summer.

Liverpool's Ballon d'Or winner Michael Owen, AC Milan's Andriy Shevchenko, Lazio captain Alessandro Nesta, and Arsenal's Patrick Vieira topped the shopping list. British tabloids even reported that Real Madrid had offered Steve McManaman in a swap deal for Vieira, along with a hefty transfer fee.

The plan was clear: transplant France's dominant midfield duo into La Liga.

Real's pursuit of Owen or Shevchenko stemmed from lingering doubts about Morientes' star power and scoring efficiency.

AS suggested that Real Madrid might sign two global superstars in the summer, sending shockwaves through European football.

As Florentino Pérez made increasingly bold promises, it became clear to everyone that Real Madrid's Galáctico strategy was not only continuing but escalating. Pérez had tasted success, and now his ambitions knew no bounds.

To appease local fans, Pérez announced the signing of a seven-year contract with Francisco Pavón, hailed as the most talented product of Real Madrid's youth academy and the heir apparent to Hierro. However, if Real succeeded in signing Nesta to pair with Cannavaro, Pavón would likely become their ideal backup.

With Real Madrid having claimed the most dominant first half of a La Liga season in history, Pérez and his club were riding high. Not just in Spain but across Europe, an air of white-clad dominance loomed. As El Mundo wrote, "On one hand, people fear Real Madrid's strength, but on the other, they marvel at the brilliance of Zidane, Figo, and Raúl."

Still, one blemish marred Real's near-perfect record: their loss in the Madrid Derby. Despite the widespread narrative that it was an unfair fluke, the defeat remained a glaring scar on their otherwise pristine image.

Many Real fans and media outlets argued that beyond winning the league, their greatest mission in the second half of the season was to avenge that loss.

"We must obliterate Atlético at the Bernabéu!"

December 6, 2001 — Camp Nou

Following Real Madrid's resounding 3-1 victory over Deportivo, the spotlight shifted to Atlético Madrid's match against Barcelona at Camp Nou. With questions swirling about Atlético's Middle East training camp and Barcelona's struggles, few believed that Atlético could leave with a victory.

Aware of the noise, Yang Hao and his team kept their focus solely on preparations.

Barcelona was in a dire position in the league standings. Manager Carles Rexach had been branded by some as the worst coach in Barça history—a likely exaggeration, but his tactical approach certainly raised eyebrows.

Throughout the season, Rexach alternated between three- and four-man defensive lines.

The pattern was bizarre: after playing four at the back for a stretch, he would switch to three when results faltered. Remarkably, every switch initially brought stability, even yielding big wins on occasion. But once the tactics were "figured out," results would nosedive again, forcing another shift.

"By this logic, he's due to revert to a three-man defense now," assistant coach Juanma Lillo observed with amusement.

The entire coaching staff found Rexach's logic baffling.

Lose a game? Change formation. Win a game? Keep the same.

"People say this approach comes from Johan Cruyff's Dream Team," Lillo speculated. Rexach had been a key figure in Cruyff's staff during that era.

"But Cruyff had a core philosophy. The formation was just a flexible tool. Does this Barça have that?" Yang Hao laughed.

Indeed, coaches like Cruyff or Guardiola could switch formations while staying true to a distinct style of play, but even they had their missteps. Rexach, meanwhile, lacked a clear tactical identity.

"Keep watching. If he plays a back three, we'll teach him what it means to be a proper coach at Camp Nou," Yang declared.

As match day approached, more details about Barcelona's plans surfaced. Their 18-man squad included key attackers like Rivaldo, Saviola, and Kluivert, along with midfielders like Cocu, Xavi, and Gabri. However, notable defenders like Sergi and Reiziger were excluded, leaving only Puyol and Francesco Coco as full-backs.

The signs pointed to Rexach deploying a 3-5-2 formation.

Yang Hao saw this as an opportunity. He decided to test Atlético's defensive capabilities with a 4-3-2-1 Christmas Tree formation:

Goalkeeper: Van der Sar

Defense: Aurelio, Carvalho, Lucio, Belletti

Midfield: Simeone, Xabi Alonso, Baraja (defensive), Deco, Kaka (attacking)

Forward: Adriano

The lineup wasn't just about defeating Barcelona; it was a trial run for the upcoming clash against Manchester United. Yang Hao needed to gauge how well this setup could withstand pressure from an attacking powerhouse.

If the match against Barça revealed flaws, he was prepared to adjust before facing the Red Devils.

"This is Atlético's starting XI," said Rexach's assistant, Alexanko, handing over the lineup.

Alexanko, like Rexach, was a member of the Dream Team era. As Rexach studied the list, his frustration was evident.

"4-3-2-1, huh? Yang Hao calls it the Christmas Tree."

Rexach, however, wasn't interested in poetic names.

"Doesn't matter what tree it is. It won't stop us from scoring!"

Alexanko hesitated but eventually voiced his concerns.

"We should be careful. Atlético's counterattacks are deadly."

Rexach waved him off.

"This is Camp Nou. Let them try."

The stage was set. The tactical chess match between the unpredictable Rexach and the methodical Yang Hao would soon unfold at one of football's grandest theaters.

Rexach nodded grimly. "You know, José, we don't really have a choice, do we?"

Alexanko gave a resigned smile, understanding the weight of the situation.

The public had no clue what was truly happening behind the scenes at Barcelona. Even Barça-friendly outlets like Sport and Mundo Deportivo wouldn't dare report the full extent. But internally, the situation was dire.

The club's board was stirring with an anti-Gaspart movement. The "Blue Elephant" faction was mobilizing again, reportedly planning to disrupt the VIP and presidential boxes during the match. Joan Laporta and his supporters were doing everything possible to pressure Gaspart into resigning.

Yet Gaspart stood firm. Through his intermediary, Ferrer, he had delivered a clear message to Rexach: the team must improve in the second half of the season.

A title challenge was out of the question, with Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid racing far ahead. Now, Barcelona's immediate goal was to claw their way back into the Champions League places and deliver convincing results, especially in high-profile home matches.

Tonight, Rexach had one mission: defeat Atlético Madrid.

"Ironic, isn't it, José?" Rexach mused bitterly. "I once said I wouldn't fool the fans because they're the most loyal to Barça." He paused, a hollow laugh escaping. "But now... everything I do is just a better way to deceive them."

He had started this tenure with high hopes, but now, Rexach felt disillusioned. Something had gone terribly wrong within the club, but he didn't know what—or how to fix it.

As head coach and a loyal servant of the club, his sole duty now was to fight for victory on the pitch. Nothing more.

The Match Begins

Attack!

That was Rexach's single instruction in the pre-match team talk.

From the opening whistle, Barcelona launched a relentless assault.

4th minute: Kluivert unleashed a low drive from the edge of the box, only for Van der Sar to dive and smother it.

6th minute: Xavi tried his luck from distance but sent the ball over the bar.

8th minute: Rochemback's speculative shot ricocheted off Carvalho, landing in the penalty area. Kluivert shielded Lucio, turned, and shot, but Van der Sar again made a crucial save.

10th minute: Cocu let fly from outside the box.

12th minute: Another Cocu strike forced a corner. From the ensuing set piece, Rivaldo narrowly missed a header.

It wasn't until the 16th minute that Atlético Madrid managed their first foray into Barcelona's box. In a rare counterattack, Deco threaded a pass to Adriano, who burst past the defense but pushed the ball too far, allowing Bonano to claim it.

For the remainder of the half, Barcelona dominated possession and pinned Atlético back, creating wave after wave of attacks.

Yang Hao was constantly on the sideline, directing his players to reorganize and adjust their defensive structure. Despite being under siege, Atlético's defense held firm.

By the 30th minute, Barcelona's aggression reached a fever pitch, with tempers flaring on both sides.

33rd minute: Rochemback surged into the box and collided with Simeone. Both players went down, triggering a heated confrontation. Pushes were exchanged as Barcelona players demanded a penalty, but the referee waved play on, leaving the Camp Nou crowd furious.

Frustration Mounts

A deafening wave of boos erupted from the stands.

Yang Hao stood calmly near the touchline, taking it all in. This was the scenario he had anticipated. He signaled to Simeone with a thumbs-up and instructed the three holding midfielders to push slightly forward.

"We're defending well," Juanma Lillo remarked. "Xabi Alonso's positional sense is outstanding."

Xabi was a dream player for any manager—intelligent, composed, and tactically astute. He always knew where he needed to be on the pitch, a trait that many players lacked.

"And Deco is crucial too," Yang Hao added.

"Absolutely. He's our key outlet when we regain possession," Lillo agreed.

Barcelona's back three—De Boer, Christanval, and Puyol—had done well to contain Adriano so far, but the game was still finely poised.

While Atlético's 4-3-2-1 formation lacked attacking spark in the first half, it provided a solid defensive structure. Despite Barça registering 15 attempts, only three had been on target. Most were speculative long-range efforts, posing minimal danger.

From Yang Hao's perspective, the match was a perfect test of his defensive setup. If his team could stifle Barcelona's formidable attack featuring Kluivert, Saviola, and Rivaldo, he'd feel more confident heading into the clash against Manchester United.

However, Barcelona's increasing desperation was a concern. As the clock ticked toward halftime, their players became more frantic and impatient.

Yang Hao had drilled his players to expect this, repeatedly emphasizing the importance of staying calm and composed under pressure. Veterans like Simeone, Xabi Alonso, Deco, and Baraja provided a calming influence, ensuring the team remained organized.

Rising Tensions

By the 40th minute, the physicality of the match intensified. Challenges became fiercer, with both sides pushing the limits of the referee's leniency.

41st minute: Belletti went down heavily after a collision with Cocu. Atlético's medical team rushed onto the pitch, and although Belletti eventually recovered, the incident highlighted the growing hostility.

Moments later, Barcelona were on the attack again.

43rd minute: Saviola found space inside the box and tried to thread a pass to Kluivert in the center. Carvalho, however, made a perfectly timed interception, clearing the danger.

As the first half drew to a close, both teams retreated to their respective locker rooms. For Barcelona, it was a frustrating 45 minutes of dominance without a breakthrough. For Atlético, it was a test of endurance and discipline—one they had passed so far.

Yang Hao knew the real challenge lay ahead. Could his team maintain their resilience and capitalize on Barcelona's mounting frustration in the second half?

The battle of wits and willpower at the Camp Nou was far from over.

The Portuguese center-back intercepted the ball cleanly, finding no Barcelona players nearby as Saviola lay on the ground.

The referee made no whistle.

Carvalho carried the ball out of the box and quickly passed it to Xabi Alonso. From there, Alonso advanced upfield, sending it forward to Deco.

Barcelona's defense reacted swiftly. Xavi immediately closed in on Deco, denying him the space to accelerate or pass to Kaká.

Xavi's reading of the game was, as always, impeccable.

At that moment, Atlético's left flank came alive.

"Here!"

Aurelio raised his hand, signaling for the ball.

Deco responded with a crisp pass, and the Brazilian left-back surged forward, sprinting along the left wing with pace and determination.

With no Barcelona defenders in sight, only their back three remained to contend with the counterattack.

The Camp Nou erupted in anxious gasps.

The home fans, still haunted by memories of Atlético's lethal counterattacks, could sense danger.

Aurelio raced down the left flank, heading towards the left side of Barcelona's penalty area. Kaká was also sprinting forward, while Adriano cleverly pulled defenders toward the right, near the far post, creating more space for Kaká to exploit.

Three Atlético players were bearing down on Barcelona's goal, while the hosts had only three defenders to hold them off.

Aurelio and Adriano's aggressive runs forced Barcelona's back line to scramble. Puyol moved up to confront Aurelio, while Christanval and De Boer followed Adriano closely, leaving a gaping hole behind Puyol on Barcelona's left side.

As Aurelio reached Puyol, he coolly cut the ball sideways, leaving the defender sliding into thin air.

Kaká, still sprinting at full speed, reached the ball and deftly pushed it past Puyol's position into the vacant left side of the penalty area.

Christanval realized the threat and abandoned Adriano to chase Kaká, but the Brazilian midfielder was too fast. Kaká stormed into the penalty area and struck a precise low shot with his left foot.

The ball slipped past Bonano and nestled into the back of Barcelona's net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!"

"In the 44th minute of the first half, Atlético Madrid have broken the deadlock with a lightning-quick counterattack!"

"Kaká!!"

"Remember this name—Atlético's number 22, Kaká, has scored the opening goal of the match!"

Kaká celebrated in his signature style, pointing both hands toward the heavens and offering a silent prayer.

On the sidelines, Yang Hao erupted with joy, jumping up and down as he clenched his fists in triumph.

It was a stunningly executed play.

This was Atlético's first shot of the match, and it had shattered Barcelona's defense.

More impressively, the counterattack spanned nearly the entire pitch, originating from the defensive third and ending in Barcelona's goal in mere seconds.

The precision and decisiveness of Atlético's players in executing the play left no room for Barcelona to react.

"Absolutely brilliant!"

"What a spectacular counterattack from Atlético Madrid! This is a completely different side of the team than we've seen before."

Second Half: More Chaos, More Goals

The first half ended with Atlético leading 1-0, thanks to Kaká's clinical finish.

However, the second half saw Barcelona ramp up the pressure, unleashing wave after wave of attacks.

The Catalans were like an enraged bull, charging relentlessly at Atlético in a desperate bid to equalize.

But just 10 minutes into the second half, Atlético struck again.

Deco once more initiated the counterattack, finding Kaká in space.

The Brazilian midfielder broke away from Xavi, surging forward at blistering speed before reaching the edge of the penalty area.

With Barcelona's defense scrambling, Kaká delivered a perfectly weighted diagonal through ball. Adriano timed his run impeccably, breaking the offside trap and collecting the pass near the penalty spot on the left.

Without hesitation, Adriano fired a powerful left-footed shot that left Bonano helpless.

2-0!

For a moment, the Camp Nou fell eerily silent.

The shock of conceding a second goal was palpable.

Rexach, pacing frantically on the sideline, completely lost his composure. In a moment of desperation, he made an extraordinary substitution, replacing Puyol with Giovanni.

Barcelona had abandoned their three-man defense and switched to a risky two-man backline.

This was no longer a tactical adjustment; it was sheer madness.

Barcelona's sole focus now was to attack, throwing everything they had at Atlético.

From the 58th minute onward, Atlético's penalty area resembled a battlefield.

Barcelona's relentless assaults created constant chaos, and Yang Hao had no choice but to further tighten Atlético's defensive lines, instructing his players to slow the game's tempo when possible.

The tension began to boil over. Barcelona's players grew increasingly frustrated, with Kluivert earning a yellow card in the 70th minute for angrily berating the referee.

Despite Barcelona's dominance, their inability to find the back of the net only deepened their despair.

Atlético's Icy Response: A Third Goal

In the 79th minute, with Barcelona throwing players forward recklessly, Atlético seized yet another opportunity on the break.

A swift counterattack saw Adriano threading the ball to Kaká. The midfielder surged into the box before laying off an unselfish pass across the face of goal.

Deco arrived at the perfect moment to slot the ball into an empty net.

3-0!

It was Atlético's eighth shot of the match, with five on target, and three converted into goals.

Meanwhile, Barcelona had amassed 34 shots but failed to score a single goal.

Full-Time Whistle: Chaos at Camp Nou

When the referee blew the final whistle, the Camp Nou erupted—not in support, but in fury.

To Yang Hao's astonishment, the fans' anger wasn't directed at Atlético but at their own club's management. Objects were hurled toward the VIP boxes and presidential seating, as fans loudly voiced their discontent with the board and executives.

The Camp Nou had descended into chaos.

Yang Hao stood at the sideline, taking it all in.

"Barça fans attacking their own management mid-match? Well, that's something you don't see every day," he muttered.

"Truly, a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle!"

January 8th, evening, Madrid, Vicente Calderón Stadium.

Fresh off their dominant away win over Barcelona, Atlético Madrid returned home to face Rayo Vallecano in the first leg of the Copa del Rey quarterfinals.

From the opening whistle, Atlético unleashed a relentless offensive barrage. Their front three—Vicente, Diego Forlán, and Joaquín—continuously harassed Rayo Vallecano's defensive line.

In the 10th minute, Vicente delivered a pinpoint cross from the left. Forlán controlled the ball with a deft flick over a defender and volleyed it into the net, giving Atlético an early lead.

1–0!

The Vicente Calderón erupted in celebration, the stands roaring with approval.

With the lead secured, Atlético played with greater composure, dominating possession and dictating the game's tempo with their 4-3-3 formation.

In the 23rd minute, Joaquín launched a brilliant dribble down the right flank, penetrating Rayo's penalty area before delivering a sharp cross. Patrice Evra, surging forward on the left, met the ball with a calm finish, slotting it home for Atlético's second.

2–0!

As halftime approached, Forlán was brought down in the box after a darting run. The referee pointed to the spot.

The Uruguayan striker confidently converted the penalty, securing his brace and extending Atlético's lead to three goals.

3–0!

The second half began with Atlético easing off the gas, but they remained sharp.

In the 68th minute, Joaquín delivered another precise pass into the box. Deco capitalized, finishing cleanly to make it four.

The relentless attack continued. In the 71st and 74th minutes, Vicente and Joaquín added their names to the scoresheet, sealing an emphatic 6–0 victory.

After the match, Rayo Vallecano's coach Gregorio Manzano lamented the result, attributing the defeat to the team's fatigue from their previous match against Celta Vigo.

"We gave everything in the weekend's game, leaving us no choice but to rotate," Manzano explained. "But it's clear: our squad cannot match Atlético's depth."

Manzano acknowledged Atlético's status as one of the strongest teams in La Liga.

"After such a heavy defeat, our chances of advancing are nearly nonexistent. However, we'll still aim to play our style of football in the return leg at home."

With back-to-back dominant performances—beating Barcelona away and Rayo Vallecano at home—Atlético continued to dazzle and intimidate their opponents.

Spanish media heaped praise on the team, hailing them as a growing force to be reckoned with in both the Copa del Rey and La Liga.

Meanwhile, in a shocking twist, Real Madrid suffered a 0–1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao in their Copa del Rey quarterfinal first leg. The loss sent shockwaves through Spain, with opinions sharply divided.

Some fans reveled in schadenfreude, eager to see Madrid stumble. Others expressed dismay, arguing that a stronger performance was essential given the stakes.

With the Copa del Rey final scheduled for March 6th at the Santiago Bernabéu as part of Real Madrid's centenary celebrations, the tournament was deemed a crown jewel of the festivities.

A failure to secure the title would not only mar the celebrations but also turn the event into a national laughingstock.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez was quick to reassure fans after the setback, promising a turnaround in the return leg at the Bernabéu.

"I've spoken with [coach Vicente] Del Bosque and the players—they're all confident we'll reverse the result next week," he declared.

Behind the scenes, however, the pressure was mounting. Reports from AS suggested that Real Madrid's board had reached a consensus: failure to win the Copa del Rey would result in Del Bosque's dismissal.

Copa del Rey: Redemption for Real Madrid

True to Pérez's promise, Real Madrid rebounded in the second leg. Playing at home, goals from Raúl and Zidane secured a 2–0 victory, overturning the aggregate score to advance 2–1 to the semifinals.

Atlético Madrid, fielding a rotated squad for their away leg against Rayo Vallecano, managed a 1–1 draw, progressing with a commanding 7–1 aggregate victory.

The other semifinalists included Deportivo La Coruña and third-division underdogs Figueres.

Luck seemed to favor Real Madrid, who drew Figueres in the semifinals—a virtual guarantee of a spot in the final.

Atlético, meanwhile, were paired with Deportivo, a far more formidable challenge. The two teams would battle for the right to face Madrid in the centenary final.

La Liga Title Race Heats Up

In La Liga, Real Madrid's relentless pace finally slowed.

Against Málaga in Round 21, a defensive lapse allowed Darío Silva to set up Valdés, who scored in the 24th minute. Despite a late equalizer from Fernando Morientes in the 87th minute, Madrid had to settle for a 1–1 draw.

Atlético Madrid capitalized on their rival's slip-up with a 4–2 victory away to Sevilla. José Antonio Reyes shone against his former club, contributing a goal and an assist to secure the three points.

The results narrowed the gap between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid at the top of the table to just two points, reigniting the title race.

Spanish media proclaimed that Atlético remained Real Madrid's fiercest rival in both the Copa del Rey and La Liga.

Florentino's Frustration

"Atlético! Atlético!! Atlético!!!"

BAM!

The sound of Pérez slamming his palm on his desk reverberated through his office at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Pérez had been poring over the day's newspapers, and every single one mentioned Atlético in the same breath as Real Madrid.

"What is the meaning of this?" he seethed.

This cursed Atlético Madrid, how could they be so infuriating?

For reasons he couldn't quite explain, every time Florentino Pérez thought of Atlético, the image of that damned Yang Hao came to mind. And with that, a wave of discomfort and frustration washed over him.

Across from him, Real Madrid's top executives sat frozen, stunned by the sudden slap of his palm on the desk.

Recently, the president's mood had been increasingly erratic, as though he was teetering on the brink of a breakdown.

"Can anyone here tell me how to stop that damned team from showing up at the Bernabéu?" Florentino growled, scanning the room.

The executives exchanged uneasy glances. It was clear to everyone that their boss's frustration stemmed from one primary source: anxiety.

The Stakes of the Centennial Celebration

The club's centennial celebration was Pérez's magnum opus, an event he had planned and personally overseen to the last detail. It was not merely about celebrating 100 years of Real Madrid; it was his grand stage to unveil a modern, revitalized Real Madrid that stood unparalleled in history.

This wasn't just for Madridistas. Florentino envisioned a spectacle that would cement his legacy alongside the likes of Santiago Bernabéu, a revival of the club's golden era.

The stands at the Bernabéu would host not only legendary players, sponsors, and fans but also royalty, including the Spanish king and other members of the royal family. High-ranking government officials, international dignitaries, and Europe's elite from the business and political spheres were also set to attend.

This would be more than a match; it was to be a stage that showcased Real Madrid's unmatched prestige and power to the entire world.

But in a match of this magnitude, failure wasn't an option.

Florentino couldn't allow even the smallest mishap to tarnish the occasion.

Now, with the prospect of Atlético Madrid barging into the Copa del Rey final, the stakes had risen to catastrophic levels.

What if they won?

Such a calamity would turn Real Madrid's carefully orchestrated centennial celebration into an international laughingstock. The board could not—and would not—accept such a scenario.

The Plan to Thwart Atlético

"Perhaps... I could make a call to Lendoiro?" ventured Emilio Butragueño hesitantly.

Augusto César Lendoiro, the president of Deportivo La Coruña and the architect of the "Super Depor" era, had long been a respected and shrewd figure in Spanish football.

Everyone in the room knew what Butragueño was implying. It was hardly a secret.

This wasn't new in Spanish football. Back in the 1991/92 and 1992/93 seasons, a similar scenario had played out.

Historical Precedent: A Tale of Tenerife

At the time, Johan Cruyff had just taken over as Barcelona's manager. His "Dream Team" was still in its infancy, far from the peak that would cement their legacy.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid boasted an unstoppable lineup featuring Hugo Sánchez, Butragueño, Hierro, Hagi, Míchel, and Luis Enrique. They seemed poised to dominate.

In both seasons, the La Liga title race came down to the final matchday, with Real Madrid needing only a draw to secure the championship.

Both times, Madrid faced Tenerife in the final match—and both times, they lost.

Coincidentally, Tenerife's coach during those games was none other than Jorge Valdano, now Real Madrid's sporting director. Their star player? Fernando Redondo, who later donned the white of Madrid.

What truly made those seasons infamous, however, was the whispered collusion. Barcelona had reportedly "reached out" to Tenerife, encouraging them to give their all against Real Madrid. In return, Barcelona allegedly promised incentives, including preferential treatment in future transfer negotiations.

Tenerife's chairman was later granted honorary membership at Barcelona, sparking a media frenzy. Though no formal charges of match-fixing were filed, the rumor lingered like a shadow over Spanish football.

The Modern Dilemma

Now, history seemed poised to repeat itself, but with the roles reversed.

Real Madrid had no interest in seeing Atlético Madrid reach the Copa del Rey final. Too many uncontrollable variables and risks. Deportivo, however, posed a far lesser threat.

Butragueño's idea was simple: encourage Deportivo to "give it their all" against Atlético. In return, Real Madrid could offer some form of compensation—discreetly, of course.

Florentino Gives the Go-Ahead

The room fell silent as Florentino mulled over the idea. Finally, he broke the tension.

"Deportivo's Fran is past his prime," he remarked casually.

Everyone instantly understood the subtext.

Deportivo's legendary captain Fran, though still effective, was 32 years old. Deportivo had been on the hunt for his successor for years but had yet to find a suitable replacement.

Previously, Deportivo had expressed interest in Atlético's Vicente but was rebuffed by Yang Hao. Meanwhile, Real Madrid had an abundance of players on the left flank, including Munitis, whose role had diminished.

Florentino's "suggestion" was clear: offer Munitis as part of a deal to Deportivo, sweetening the incentive for them to eliminate Atlético in the semifinals.

"Emilio," Florentino said, addressing Butragueño with a smile, "you've been working hard lately. Take a few days off—go somewhere up north, maybe."

Butragueño nodded, immediately grasping his instructions.

"Yes, I'll make arrangements. My wife has been wanting to visit the north anyway."

And just like that, the matter was settled.

The arrangement would remain strictly between Butragueño and Lendoiro. Nothing would officially tie it to Real Madrid.

Shifting Focus to the Summer Market

With the Atlético issue seemingly addressed, the conversation turned to summer transfers.

Recently, a major media outlet had published its Top 10 Football Clubs of 2002, with Real Madrid unsurprisingly ranked first. Florentino couldn't hide his satisfaction.

Following Madrid were Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Arsenal. Neither Barcelona nor Atlético made the top ten. Only Deportivo La Coruña, ranked ninth, represented Spain outside of Real Madrid.

This served as a testament to Real Madrid's unparalleled global influence—a validation of Florentino's Galácticos project.

"Within just two years," Florentino proclaimed, "our strategy has proven to be an extraordinary success."

"Next, we must quickly convert this influence into commercial gains, boost our revenue, and in turn, acquire more superstars to create a virtuous cycle," Florentino Pérez instructed.

José Sánchez, head of Real Madrid's commercial department, nodded in agreement. He had already drafted a meticulous plan to secure major sponsorship deals in the coming months, including renegotiating the club's deal with Adidas and securing a lucrative front-of-shirt sponsor.

For the past two years, Real Madrid's iconic white shirt had been without a sponsor—a missed opportunity worth millions of euros annually.

Beyond sponsorships, the commercial department had another critical role: market research.

This research often played a significant role in Real Madrid's transfer decisions.

The Transfer Market: Commercial Priorities

Publicly, rumors linked Real Madrid to defenders like Nesta, Thuram, and Stam, with Cannavaro as a late addition. But Sánchez revealed a different reality during the meeting.

"Our initial target was Nesta due to his clean image and immense commercial appeal. Thuram and Stam were never seriously considered and served more as smokescreens. The true target has always been Cannavaro."

The reason? Cannavaro had a superior image and commercial value, aligning perfectly with Florentino's strategy of combining talent with marketability.

Ronaldo: The Most Marketable Star

"From a commercial perspective, Ronaldo remains the most appealing forward on the market," Sánchez reported.

He elaborated, "Recently recovered from injury, Ronaldo has already signed three major sponsorship deals in Italy, including one with TIM. This demonstrates his enduring commercial value."

The department's research further revealed the global anticipation surrounding Ronaldo's comeback.

"This year's World Cup only heightens that anticipation. Brazil's rocky qualification campaign has made fans worldwide, especially Brazilians, place their hopes on Ronaldo. Everyone dreams of him making a triumphant return, erasing the heartbreak of '98."

Indeed, Ronaldo remained a legend in football, a global icon with unparalleled star power.

Jorge Valdano, the club's sporting director, voiced a cautious note:

"Ronaldo is extraordinary, perhaps even one of a kind. But his fitness remains a significant concern. If he can stay healthy and return to his peak, he'd be an incredible asset."

Florentino nodded thoughtfully. "Anyone else?"

The Unexpected Name: Yang Hao

Sánchez hesitated briefly before responding, visibly uneasy.

"Go on, speak," Florentino urged.

"Well…" Sánchez began, glancing nervously around the room, "our market research has also revealed that Yang Hao's popularity is skyrocketing, particularly in Asia due to the upcoming World Cup. Since December, he's reportedly secured three sponsorship deals, and brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma are actively pursuing him."

"What?!" Florentino's disbelief was palpable. He stared at Sánchez, waiting for an explanation.

The commercial director nodded confidently.

"Apparently, Atlético Madrid's commercial team is brokering these deals, but since they don't hold his image rights, the majority of the income goes directly to him."

The room fell into stunned silence.

The idea that a coach, even one as high-profile as Yang Hao, could rival top players like Ronaldo in marketability seemed almost absurd.

"This surge in interest is likely tied to the World Cup being held in Asia," Sánchez explained. "Moreover, Yang Hao's rarity as a young, accomplished coach with a clean-cut image adds to his appeal. At 26, he's already a double European champion—a unique and compelling narrative for brands."

A Rising Threat

The explanation made sense, but it didn't make it any less shocking.

Yang Hao's meteoric rise had been impossible to ignore. In just two years, he had transformed Atlético Madrid from an afterthought into a bona fide powerhouse.

For Florentino, Yang Hao wasn't just a competitor—he was a nemesis.

The president's mind drifted back to the infamous moment when he publicly dismissed Yang Hao as a "charlatan" and "empty talker." Now, that very "charlatan" was threatening to overshadow Florentino's carefully curated image of dominance.

"Under no circumstances can that damned Yang Hao and his Atlético Madrid reach the Bernabéu on March 6th," Florentino resolved silently, his jaw tightening with determination.

Behind the Scenes at Deportivo

While Florentino schemed, Atlético Madrid's semifinal opponent, Deportivo La Coruña, found themselves part of an intriguing subplot.

Deportivo's coach, Javier Irureta, received an unexpected call from club president Augusto César Lendoiro. After some small talk about the team's preparations, Lendoiro finally revealed his true intentions.

"You've been wanting a high-quality left winger for some time, haven't you? If we eliminate Atlético in the Copa del Rey semifinal, I'll personally secure the funds to sign a Spanish international-level left winger this summer," Lendoiro offered.

Irureta wasn't naive. He immediately grasped the subtext.

Given Deportivo's targets, the likely candidates were either Atlético's Vicente or Real Madrid's Munitis. However, the stipulation to beat Atlético made the motive clear.

In professional football, such arrangements operated in a gray area. Irureta, being a seasoned coach, understood this was part of the game.

And it didn't conflict with his principles—beating Atlético was already his objective. Now, he just had added motivation.

Player Incentives

To ensure maximum effort, Lendoiro announced that he would personally visit Deportivo's team hotel the night before the match. There, he would unveil a revised bonus structure to reward players for success in the Copa del Rey, La Liga, and Champions League.

On paper, it all seemed perfectly legitimate. After all, offering bonuses for good performances was common practice.

Irureta assured his assistant, Francisco Melo, that everything would be handled professionally.

"Atlético is only getting stronger," Melo observed with a wry smile.

Indeed, under Yang Hao's leadership, Atlético had defied all odds. Despite being gutted by transfers in the summer of 2000, with Deportivo themselves poaching three key players, Atlético had not only survived but thrived.

"I never imagined," Melo continued, "that within two years, they'd become one of the most feared teams in Spain."

Irureta nodded grimly.

"Which is why we have to stop them."

From that moment, Deportivo La Coruña began strengthening their squad, building on their La Liga title, while Real Madrid, after winning the Champions League, went on a spending spree to bring in global superstars.

This strategy explained their current success.

And Atlético Madrid?

Yang Hao had no choice but to sell players and bring in inexpensive young talents, crafting a squad from limited resources.

Step by step, Yang Hao had transformed Atlético from a relegation-threatened club into a formidable force in European football. Even a powerhouse like Real Madrid now regarded them with caution.

Irureta, Deportivo's head coach, had discussed Yang Hao with players like Valerón, and their feedback was uniformly high.

"What now?" Melo, his assistant coach, asked with concern.

"What do you mean, 'what now?'"

Melo hesitated, unsure how to express himself.

"We were always going to try to beat Atlético, weren't we? Now, we just have more reason to dedicate extra resources and effort to this match," Irureta replied calmly.

Melo nodded but still seemed uneasy.

Irureta knew his assistant well and smiled. "You feel it's unfair, don't you?"

"Real Madrid's behavior feels so underhanded," Melo admitted.

At first glance, it might not seem problematic. But when examined closely, something felt off.

Real Madrid clearly feared Atlético more than Deportivo. If not, why would they prefer Deportivo in the final over Atlético?

It was simple: Real Madrid saw Atlético as the greater threat.

"This world is fair, Melo," Irureta said with a resigned tone. "Real Madrid will always be Real Madrid, just as Barcelona will always be Barcelona. We can't compete with them—now or ever. That's just reality."

He gestured toward the privileges enjoyed by Madrid and Barcelona, like government support, that Deportivo could never hope for.

"But..." Irureta's tone shifted, a spark of determination lighting his voice.

"Deportivo has its own way of surviving. If Real Madrid is willing to sell us Munitis at a fair price once we eliminate Atlético, why shouldn't we take that opportunity?"

Melo's eyes widened in surprise but quickly narrowed in understanding.

Real Madrid's demand was only to stop Atlético from reaching the final—not to ensure a Madrid victory. That opened up a different possibility.

"We can eliminate Atlético," Irureta continued, "and still defeat Real Madrid in the final. Why not have both the players and the trophy?"

His words carried a quiet confidence that Melo couldn't help but admire.

January 22, Estadio Riazor, La Coruña

Copa del Rey Semifinal, First Leg

Deportivo La Coruña vs. Atlético Madrid

Before the match, a downpour left the pitch slick and treacherous. As Yang Hao walked out of the tunnel, he caught sight of a stunning rainbow arcing across the stadium.

Irureta was waiting at the tunnel's exit. The two shook hands and exchanged pleasantries.

"Tonight, we have to win at home," Irureta said with deliberate seriousness.

Yang Hao smiled. "So do we."

"Why?"

"In Chinese, we say, 'distant relatives aren't as important as close neighbors.' If our neighbor is hosting a grand celebration, it's only proper for us to show up and offer our congratulations. So yes, we also need to win."

Irureta chuckled at the quip, recognizing the underlying message. Both coaches shared the same goal.

"Well then, let's see who comes out on top. But you're at a disadvantage."

"Lucio and Baraja?"

"Exactly. Their absence is significant."

"No worries. Tonight, we play offense!"

After parting ways, both coaches shed their earlier smiles, replaced by steely determination.

Deportivo, with a full squad in peak form, had Irureta's declared "strongest lineup" of the season:

Goalkeeper: Molina

Defenders: Capdevila, César Martín, Naybet, Scaloni

Midfielders: Mauro Silva, Sergio as double pivots, Valerón, Fran, Víctor Sánchez further up

Striker: Diego Tristán

Meanwhile, Atlético fielded a 4-2-3-1 formation:

Goalkeeper: Van der Sar

Defenders: Aurelio, Carvalho, Marchena, Belletti

Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Simeone as the holding duo, Vicente, Deco, Joaquín in advanced roles

Striker: Adriano

Missing Lucio and Baraja, Yang Hao opted for an aggressive strategy to exploit the away-goal rule.

An Open Battle

From the whistle, both sides played at a breakneck pace, launching direct attacks on each other's defensive vulnerabilities.

Deportivo targeted Atlético's weakened backline in Lucio's absence. Atlético, in turn, sought to exploit Deportivo's defensive inconsistencies, particularly their center-backs.

The first shot came from Deportivo captain Fran—a long-range effort that went narrowly wide.

Moments later, Atlético responded. Vicente broke through on the left and delivered a precise cross, but Adriano's close-range header sailed over.

Atlético kept up the pressure. Deco threaded a brilliant pass to Adriano, who surged into the box for a powerful strike. Deportivo goalkeeper Molina made an acrobatic save to deny the Brazilian.

The match quickly devolved into an end-to-end battle, with neither team holding back.

By the 10th minute, Atlético began asserting themselves, creating more opportunities.

Finally, in the 17th minute, Adriano's shot inside the box was blocked by a defender. The deflection created a wide-open space on the right. Simeone, charging forward, seized the opportunity.

The Argentine unleashed a thunderous shot...

A powerful strike from Simeone blasted into Deportivo La Coruña's net. 1–0!

Despite conceding early, the home side only grew more determined.

Just two minutes later, Tristán received a brilliant pass from Valerón inside the box, expertly sidestepped Marchena, and fired a shot—only to see Van der Sar dive to deny him with an incredible save.

Deportivo committed even more players to the attack. Capdevila and Scaloni pushed forward aggressively on the flanks, while Valerón and Tristán spearheaded the assault, putting immense pressure on Atlético's defense.

Between the 31st and 35th minutes, Deportivo came close twice:

First, Valerón dribbled past Xabi Alonso and unleashed a curling effort that narrowly missed the target.

Then Mauro Silva tried his luck from distance, his powerful strike forcing Van der Sar into action.

As the first half neared its conclusion, Atlético struck again.

Following a midfield interception, the visitors launched a lightning-fast counterattack. Deco played the ball wide to Joaquín on the right, who surged past Capdevila and delivered a pinpoint chip into the box.

Adriano surged forward and met the ball with a thunderous header from close range.

2–0!

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"

"In the second minute of first-half stoppage time, Adriano scores with a brilliant header to double Atlético's lead!"

"This puts Deportivo in a precarious position now."

"Atlético has shown remarkable form tonight at the Riazor, clearly outclassing their opponents."

A Risky Move by Irureta

At halftime, with his team trailing, Irureta made a bold decision.

He substituted Mauro Silva for Djalminha, repositioning Valerón as a deep-lying playmaker alongside Sergio, while giving Djalminha the freedom of the No. 10 role.

Simultaneously, he brought on Makaay to replace the ineffective Víctor Sánchez.

When the second half began, Deportivo came out firing.

In the 50th minute, Fran delivered a cross from the left, which Capdevila sent into the box. Carvalho, marking Makaay tightly, managed to reach the ball first but inadvertently headed it into his own net.

1–2!

The Riazor erupted in ecstatic cheers as the home fans roared their team back into the match.

Atlético's defense started to unravel.

Just six minutes later, Valerón played a deft through ball near the edge of the box, finding Djalminha, who surged past defenders in a chaotic scramble before setting up Tristán.

The striker made no mistake, hammering the ball home to equalize.

2–2!

The atmosphere was electric as Deportivo fans cheered even louder, sensing a comeback in the making.

Yang Hao Adjusts

Realizing the danger, Yang Hao quickly made a substitution.

He brought on Cambiasso to replace Joaquín, pushing Vicente forward to join Adriano as a strike duo. Atlético shifted to a 4-3-1-2 formation.

Conceding twice in six minutes, especially with an own goal, had rattled Carvalho. Yang Hao knew if adjustments weren't made quickly, even a draw would slip out of reach.

Meanwhile, Irureta doubled down on offense, using his final substitution early. He brought on Pandiani for Fran, effectively fielding a three-striker formation with Tristán, Makaay, and Pandiani—three renowned goal scorers in Europe.

Deportivo Takes the Lead

In the 71st minute, Deportivo completed their comeback.

Receiving a layoff from Tristán just outside the box, Valerón struck a stunning curling shot from 20 meters out. The ball soared over a diving Van der Sar, nestling perfectly into the top-right corner.

3–2!

The Riazor exploded with celebration, as over 30,000 fans roared with unrestrained joy.

Yang Hao, standing on the sidelines, could only watch the unfolding events with a sense of helplessness.

Both the own goal and Valerón's spectacular strike were beyond his control. Moments of brilliance like these transcended tactics and preparation, showcasing the unpredictable magic of football.

A short while later, Fernando Torres, wearing No. 35, finished his warm-up and jogged over to the Atlético bench.

"Boss."

Yang Hao turned to see the young forward, his freckled face still boyish and earnest. Torres' clean-cut short hair made Yang Hao frown.

"Next time you get a haircut, run it by me first. It's awful," Yang Hao muttered.

Torres forced an awkward smile, wondering how his appearance could matter at a time like this.

"Come closer."

Yang Hao wrapped an arm around Torres' shoulders, speaking softly but firmly:

"Capdevila loves pushing forward. When you're on, focus on targeting César Martín."

Torres nodded, listening intently.

"How's your first touch and dribbling been lately?"

"Great, Boss. Kiko's been pushing me hard in training."

Yang Hao nodded approvingly and patted Torres' shoulder.

"Forget everything else. Use your speed, control the ball, and charge forward. Show me what you've got."

Looking into Torres' eyes, Yang Hao added with conviction:

"I believe in you. Tonight, Deportivo's dreams will shatter because of you. Go, Atlético's prodigy!"

Torres clenched his jaw, his eyes gleaming with determination as he nodded. Without another word, he stepped onto the pitch.

Although he was no longer a rookie, Fernando Torres felt his heart racing as he stepped onto the pitch at Riazor Stadium.

He'd always considered himself fearless, immune to pressure.

Yet, standing here tonight, nerves still crept in.

A deep breath helped steady him.

With Atlético playing a two-forward setup, Adriano naturally gravitated to the left, where he could maximize his powerful left foot, although his right had significantly improved recently.

After an hour of battling with Naybet and César Martín, Adriano's stamina had visibly waned.

At 1.89m (6'2") and 93kg (205 lbs), Adriano was akin to a heavy tank, constantly moving. Naturally, his energy drained quickly.

While Adriano's endurance was decent for a target man, it was nowhere near the levels of a certain reserve team striker nicknamed "The Elephant" by Yang Hao.

That player, though rough around the edges, possessed exceptional work ethic and tirelessly worked on his game, including physicality, endurance, and technical skills.

Even Torres couldn't match him in that regard.

Following Yang Hao's tactical instructions, Adriano began drifting left, creating space on the right for Torres while serving as a front-line pivot.

When Xabi Alonso launched a long pass from deep in Atlético's half, Adriano retreated slightly to win the aerial duel. Rising high, he headed the ball down toward the right flank.

Torres darted forward, and César Martín gave chase, both entering a neck-and-neck sprint.

Torres edged ahead with his speed, but César Martín, with a slight shift of his body, swept his legs across Torres' path.

The young striker tumbled forward, sprawling across the turf and rolling twice before coming to a halt. The ball, meanwhile, was cleared by a retreating Capdevila.

The crowd erupted in applause, thoroughly enjoying the physicality and grit of their northern Spanish side.

Known for their combative nature, Deportivo thrived on imposing themselves with a direct and aggressive style, relishing any opportunity to send a message to opponents daring to challenge them at Riazor.

César Martín, nonchalantly rising to his feet, extended a hand toward Torres, offering to help him up. The defender's earlier tackle, though robust, wasn't malicious—it was meant to intimidate.

Everyone knew Torres was highly regarded by Yang Hao, having become the youngest scorer in La Liga's history.

But Torres slapped César Martín's hand away and stood up on his own, his jaw clenched in defiance.

César Martín chuckled, unbothered. He relished seeing the young striker flustered, knowing that anger often clouded judgment, especially in inexperienced players.

"You okay?" Adriano jogged over, his presence alone prompting César Martín to step back cautiously.

The center-back had learned to be wary of Adriano's raw physicality.

"I'm fine," Torres replied.

"That guy's playing dirty. Let me teach him a lesson."

Though Adriano and Torres had a friendly rivalry for minutes, their mutual respect ran deep. Knowing that Torres was being targeted, Adriano took it upon himself to even the score.

Minutes later, another long ball sailed toward Atlético's attack. This time, César Martín stepped up to intercept.

Adriano, initially hanging back, suddenly surged forward and leaped into the air. Using his momentum and formidable frame, he collided with César Martín.

The Deportivo defender was sent sprawling to the ground.

The referee immediately blew his whistle for a foul, but Adriano simply extended a hand toward César Martín, mimicking the earlier scene.

It was clear to everyone: Adriano had avenged his teammate.

Though reluctant, César Martín accepted the gesture, grabbing Adriano's hand to get up, wary of further confrontation.

As Adriano jogged back, he shot a grin at Torres.

"I'm running low on stamina, so you'll have to pick up the slack. Stay ready to exploit space. I'll keep Naybet occupied, but I'll push forward when it counts."

"Got it," Torres responded without hesitation. Adriano had already given his all, especially by wearing down the two center-backs.

"Don't rush. Even if we lose 2–3, we'll handle them back at home. When your moment comes, be decisive!" Adriano advised.

Despite being just shy of 20 years old, Adriano was a seasoned campaigner in La Liga, having been instrumental in Atlético's double-winning season last year. He understood the nuances of game management and the importance of seizing opportunities.

Deportivo's Defensive Strategy

Deportivo focused their defensive efforts around the halfway line, aiming to disrupt Atlético's buildup in midfield.

With three strikers—Tristán, Makaay, and Pandiani—pushed high, Deportivo's midfield trio of Sergio, Valerón, and Djalminha was stretched thin. Valerón, primarily a playmaker, and Djalminha, a non-defender, left Sergio overworked.

To compensate, Deportivo's defensive line stepped up aggressively to maintain pressure.

Atlético attempted several long passes, but with Adriano tiring, their effectiveness waned.

Recent matches had taken a toll on Atlético's squad, every game a grueling test of endurance and skill.

A Moment of Magic

As the clock ticked past 80 minutes, Atlético's midfield began to assert more control.

Xabi Alonso spotted Adriano pulling defenders toward the left and sent another long pass to his area.

Adriano, battling Naybet for the ball, managed to lay it off to Torres on the right.

This time, Torres unleashed his pace, darting past César Martín and driving into the box.

With a quick step-over and a sudden burst, Torres created just enough space to fire a low shot past Molina and into the bottom corner.

"GOAAAAAAL!!!"

"Fernando Torres! The prodigy strikes!"

The Riazor fell silent except for the jubilant cheers of the traveling Atlético supporters.

3–3!

Yang Hao erupted on the sidelines, punching the air as Torres sprinted toward the bench, arms wide in celebration.

Atlético had clawed their way back, silencing the hostile crowd and setting up a thrilling second leg at the Calderón.

Riazor Stadium, once a fortress, was cracked open by a fearless 17-year-old—Atlético's rising star.

Gradually, Atlético Madrid abandoned their long-ball approach and began focusing on ground-based penetration.

Aurelio and Belletti started making forward runs, adding width to the attack.

Fernando Torres, meanwhile, took on a more dynamic role, frequently dropping deeper to link play while allowing Adriano to stay forward as the target man.

In the 81st minute, Torres dropped into midfield to receive a diagonal pass from Aurelio. Without stopping the ball, he deftly played it back to Deco before spinning and making a diagonal run behind Sergio.

Deco, recognizing the movement, played a perfectly timed through ball into Torres' path.

Torres received it on the run, touching the ball forward with a single stride before surging past Sergio, who made a desperate attempt to grab him. The midfielder lunged but only caught air as Torres accelerated, leaving him sprawled on the turf.

The Deportivo defense instantly sounded the alarm. Capdevila and César Martín shifted closer together, ready to close off Torres' path.

But then came the unexpected. Torres, in full sprint, pushed the ball forward past both defenders and turned on the afterburners, splitting them with blistering speed.

César Martín instinctively reached out to foul him, but Torres, anticipating the move, brushed his arm aside with a forearm block, leaving Martín clutching his hand in frustration.

The 17-year-old forward tore through Deportivo's defensive line, collecting the ball on the right side of the penalty box.

Goalkeeper Molina and Naybet moved in to close him down. Torres, maintaining his composure, glanced toward the center.

There, Adriano was sprinting into position, summoning every ounce of his remaining energy for one final push.

Without hesitation, Torres delivered a precise low cross behind Naybet. The ball rolled perfectly into Adriano's path.

The Brazilian forward controlled it with his left foot and, with his right, unleashed a thunderous strike.

Naybet made a valiant effort, throwing himself into the shot's path, but Adriano's technique was flawless, and the ball rocketed into the bottom-left corner of the net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!!!!!!!"

"Adriano scores his second of the night in the 81st minute!"

"It's 3–3!"

"Atlético Madrid have equalized!"

"Fernando Torres played an instrumental role in this attack, slicing through Deportivo's defensive wall like a hot knife through butter. His pace, composure, and decision-making were crucial in setting up Adriano for this brilliant goal."

"Adriano was visibly ecstatic, shouting Torres' name as he celebrated his goal. What a stunning team effort!"

"This Copa del Rey semifinal is shaping up to be a classic!"

Both teams had played openly, exploiting each other's weaknesses. The thrilling 3–3 scoreline reflected the high level of competition on display.

For all its attacking brilliance, Deportivo's defense had struggled to cope with Atlético's firepower, despite the latter missing key players like Lucio and Baraja.

Tactical Changes and a Stalemate

Yang Hao made an immediate substitution, recognizing Adriano's exhaustion after his heroic performance.

Diego Forlán replaced the Brazilian, forming a fresh striking partnership with Torres.

With renewed energy, Atlético launched several counterattacks, nearly taking the lead.

In one instance, Forlán fired a long-range effort that forced Molina to stretch and tip the ball over the crossbar. The Uruguayan's ability to strike from distance remained a constant threat.

Despite Atlético's late pressure, the match ended in a 3–3 draw.

Yang Hao shook his head in exasperation but couldn't help smirking as he noticed Deportivo coach Irureta's crestfallen expression.

"You played too cautiously in the second half," Irureta grumbled post-match.

Yang Hao chuckled.

"Us? Cautious? Come on, don't make things up," he replied with feigned innocence.

Irureta scowled, clearly frustrated by the insinuation.

"See you at the Calderón next week," Yang Hao said, extending his hand with a smile.

After the brief handshake, Yang Hao turned his attention to his players, who were already celebrating on the field.

From a distance, Irureta watched, his frustration boiling over. Atlético had managed to secure a vital away result, and he knew the second leg would be an uphill battle.

Back at the Bernabéu

In the luxurious confines of the Bernabéu's presidential office, Florentino Pérez had just finished watching the enthralling clash between Atlético Madrid and Deportivo La Coruña.

Unlike Real Madrid's one-sided demolition of Figueres, this semifinal had captivated the footballing world.

The winner of this contest would face Real Madrid at the Bernabéu in the Copa del Rey final, an event coinciding with the club's centenary celebrations.

While most fans eagerly anticipated the spectacle of a Madrid derby, Florentino felt otherwise.

To him, Atlético Madrid was an unpredictable menace—a team that thrived on defying expectations under Yang Hao's unconventional leadership.

Allowing Atlético to reach the final would introduce too many variables, making victory far from certain.

Yet, Deportivo seemed increasingly incapable of stopping them.

"Dammit! Irureta is useless!" Florentino exclaimed, slamming his hand on the table.

"Three away goals. Now what? When they return to the Calderón, what can Deportivo possibly do?"

He knew all too well that Yang Hao could adopt a defensive approach in the second leg, relying on counterattacks to punish Deportivo's exposed backline.

"Deportivo gave everything they had," remarked Jorge Valdano, attempting to placate his agitated president.

But Florentino wasn't interested in excuses. His frustration boiled down to one thing: Atlético Madrid was a growing threat to Real Madrid's dominance.

And Yang Hao, the man he had once publicly ridiculed, was proving to be his biggest headache.

"I don't care how we do it," Florentino muttered under his breath, "but we cannot let Atlético reach the final."

As professionals, it's easy to discern whether someone has truly done their best.

In the first half, Deportivo were suppressed by Atlético Madrid, but they staged a comeback with three goals in the second half—a feat that was anything but hollow.

At that point, Florentino Pérez and everyone else at Real Madrid had their hopes lifted as Deportivo surged ahead. But then, Yang Hao played his trump card: Torres.

The young forward's blistering pace, refined touch, and fluid control in crucial moments left a lasting impression.

It was clear to all that Torres had limitless potential.

Deportivo, however, were equally frustrated at being forced into a draw by Atlético in the dying moments.

"There's still a second leg. Deportivo has a chance," muttered Emilio Butragueño, though even he sounded unsure.

Since Yang Hao took over as Atlético's coach, their record in high-stakes matches had been exceptional. His approach was pragmatic—defending when necessary, attacking when opportune.

It was a simple philosophy, but one that contrasted with the idealism ingrained in many coaches.

"Indeed, saying Deportivo is out at this stage would be premature," Valdano added, still holding onto a thread of optimism.

But their lack of confidence was evident.

Florentino could see it clearly.

He wasn't an amateur—on the contrary, he was a lifelong Real Madrid fan with decades of experience watching football. His judgment was sharp enough to discern the gravity of the situation.

"We need Del Bosque to recalibrate the team. That final is non-negotiable—we must win it!" Florentino declared firmly, looking directly at Valdano.

It wasn't just about his reputation or even the club's. It was about preserving the pride of the fans, the guests, and the legacy of Real Madrid.

Losing such a high-profile final during the centenary celebrations would be a humiliation of epic proportions.

The Stakes Intensify

As Atlético Madrid drew 3–3 with Deportivo, Real Madrid cruised to a 4–0 victory against Figueres, virtually guaranteeing their spot in the Copa del Rey final.

The dominant display excited Madridistas, but it also cast a shadow.

A second-leg Atlético victory seemed likely, which meant the final could feature a Madrid derby.

This season, Atlético remained the only team to have defeated Real Madrid—a 2–1 win earlier in the campaign.

Moreover, Real Madrid hadn't managed to secure a victory against Atlético since Yang Hao's arrival as their coach.

A potential Copa del Rey showdown with their city rivals was, for Florentino and many fans, a terrifying prospect.

Suddenly, Real Madrid's supporters and media pivoted. They began rallying behind Deportivo, creating a curious narrative of, "For the next week, we're all Super Depor fans."

Some even joined Irureta in criticizing Atlético for playing conservatively.

Yang Hao scoffed at these remarks, responding with a bold statement:

"At the Calderón, we'll make everyone see who we really are!"

The implication was clear—Atlético would adopt a more aggressive approach in the second leg.

However, many skeptics dismissed this as mere posturing, suspecting it was a psychological tactic to mislead Deportivo.

Weekend Action: A Grueling Schedule Takes Its Toll

In the following La Liga weekend, Atlético Madrid faced Rayo Vallecano in a challenging home match.

Forced to rotate the squad, Atlético struggled early and conceded a goal just 22 minutes into the game.

The absence of Lucio and Baraja continued to weigh heavily on their performance.

It wasn't until the second half that Diego Forlán struck twice—in the 52nd and 65th minutes—securing a 2–1 comeback victory.

The match revealed the toll of Atlético's relentless schedule. With Copa del Rey and league commitments piling up, the team's form was showing signs of strain.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid scraped a 1–0 home win against Real Betis, with Zidane delivering yet another decisive goal.

Over the past two seasons, Zidane had consistently stepped up as Madrid's clutch player. His goals and assists often turned tight matches into crucial victories.

While Cannavaro's arrival had strengthened the defense, Zidane, Figo, and Raúl remained the pillars of Madrid's attack.

However, the narrative surrounding Madrid's stars highlighted a curious anomaly: Fernando Morientes.

Despite being the team's top scorer, his understated personality and lack of star power rendered him almost invisible in media coverage.

In contrast, Guti, with his flashy persona, garnered far more attention.

And then there was Claude Makélélé.

Yang Hao, as a former fan, had always wondered why Real Madrid would let go of a player as pivotal as Makélélé. Now, witnessing the dynamics up close, he began to understand.

The Unsung Hero Syndrome

At Real Madrid, the credit for victories overwhelmingly went to the attacking stars—Raúl, Figo, Zidane, and others.

Defeats, however, often saw the blame placed on the defense or the less glamorous midfield players.

This season, with Real Madrid losing only once and drawing once so far, there had been few opportunities for blame to surface.

But the consequence of this dynamic was that players like Makélélé faded into obscurity.

While his importance was undeniable—anchoring the midfield, winning duels, and breaking up attacks—he simply didn't generate headlines.

Even Iván Helguera, a domestic player, received more media coverage than Makélélé.

For less-informed fans, Makélélé might as well have been invisible.

And it wasn't just the fans—Real Madrid's management appeared equally blind to his value.

Perhaps Florentino and his board genuinely believed that Makélélé was replaceable.

After all, in their eyes, as long as the Galácticos shone brightly, the supporting cast didn't matter.

In the coming week, all eyes would turn to the second leg at the Calderón. Would Yang Hao's bold promises of attacking football hold true?

Real Madrid, meanwhile, could only hope Deportivo would deliver a miracle.

For Florentino Pérez, the stakes were crystal clear: Atlético Madrid could not be allowed to reach the final.

January 29: Copa del Rey Semifinal, Second Leg

Atlético Madrid hosted Deportivo La Coruña at the Calderón Stadium.

Just three minutes into the match, Deportivo's Moroccan defender Naybet found himself shoved aside near the edge of his penalty area by Adriano, drawing gasps from the entire stadium.

The scene left Atlético's fans roaring with approval for their powerhouse Brazilian striker.

Standing at 1.86 meters tall, Naybet might as well have run into a brick wall. The sheer force of the collision left an indelible impression on everyone in the stadium.

From the sideline, Yang Hao couldn't help but shout, "That's the impact of Strength 99!"

Adriano, unbothered by Naybet's attempts to halt him, charged forward. Facing César Martín, he performed a sharp stop, flicked the ball sideways with his left foot, and created just enough of a gap to exploit. The Brazilian caught up to the ball, planting himself firmly before unleashing a thunderous strike with his left foot.

The resulting sound reverberated like a cannon blast, resonating in every heart in the stadium.

The ball rocketed into Deportivo's net with blinding speed.

In an instant, the Calderón erupted.

More than 50,000 Atlético fans leaped from their seats, screaming Adriano's name at the top of their lungs. The Brazilian sprinted to the stands where his parents were seated, pointing to them in celebration. His joy was infectious.

Yang Hao, equally elated on the sidelines, shouted, "That's the power of Strength 99 in action! Did you see that?"

The crowd roared louder, electrified by the moment of brilliance. The stadium was ablaze with passion.

Across the pitch, Deportivo coach Irureta stood at his technical area, visibly deflated. Hearing Yang Hao's proclamation, he muttered under his breath:

"Shut up! Do you think we're playing Pro Evolution Soccer?"

Strength 99? Power 99? Ridiculous… yet undeniably effective.

An Aggressive Opening Gambit

After the early goal, Atlético didn't retreat into defense. Instead, Yang Hao instructed his players to maintain their attacking momentum.

Deportivo struggled to find their footing, particularly in midfield.

Within the first 10 minutes, Atlético fired three shots on goal. While only Adriano's strike found the net, the other two were clear signs of Atlético's attacking dominance and Deportivo's defensive frailty.

Adriano was responsible for all three attempts.

On the other hand, Deportivo's striker Tristán found himself isolated. The midfield struggled to feed him as Atlético gradually regained defensive control.

With Atlético's defense regrouping, Deportivo's build-up play faltered:

Bélletti neutralized Fran on the left.

Évra, ever tenacious, shut down Víctor Sánchez on the right.

Deco, tasked with marking Valerón, excelled, showcasing a level of skill and athleticism that outshone Deportivo's playmaker.

Deportivo's options dwindled. Even Djalminha, known for his dribbling prowess, seemed trapped in Atlético's defensive web.

On the right flank, Víctor Sánchez found himself face-to-face with Évra—a matchup that triggered an old memory.

Years ago, during Évra's La Liga debut, the Frenchman relentlessly marked Sánchez, shouting, "Juanma, I'm going to destroy you!" The encounter had left Sánchez shaken, the words echoing in his mind ever since.

Now, as they faced off again, Sánchez couldn't help but ask, "Hey!"

Évra glanced at him suspiciously but said nothing.

Sánchez pressed on, "Why did you keep calling me Juanma back then?"

Évra looked genuinely puzzled, his expression suggesting that Sánchez had mistaken him for someone else.

"Juanma?" Évra frowned, seemingly unaware of any prior interactions.

Sánchez bristled. "You don't even remember me, do you?"

Évra responded with a cold stare. "Who are you?"

The dismissive reply hit Sánchez like a slap. Me? A proud Deportivo starter. A Spanish international. A product of Real Madrid's famed academy.

And yet, to Évra, he was a nobody.

The nerve!

But before Sánchez could react further, Évra's intense focus shifted back to the game, leaving Sánchez simmering with frustration.

Atlético's Ruthless Efficiency

As the match progressed, Atlético adjusted their tactics, shifting from long balls to intricate ground passes.

Both fullbacks—Aurélio and Bélletti—advanced aggressively, providing width and options in attack.

In the 81st minute, a moment of brilliance unfolded.

Torres, playing deeper to link up with midfield, dropped into the central area to receive a pass from Aurélio. Without hesitation, he laid the ball off to Deco and immediately darted forward, cutting past Sergio into open space.

Deco's perfectly weighted through ball met Torres in stride. The young striker deftly controlled the ball, surged past Sergio, and accelerated towards the penalty area.

Sergio desperately tried to grab hold of Torres but lost his balance and tumbled to the ground.

Charging forward with blistering speed, Torres forced Deportivo's defense into chaos.

Capdevila and César Martín scrambled to close him down, but Torres, brimming with confidence, threaded the ball through the narrow gap between them.

With a final burst of pace, Torres chased down his own pass, entering the penalty area unchallenged.

Seeing Adriano making a run toward the penalty spot, Torres delivered a precise low cross.

Adriano, though visibly exhausted, met the ball with a powerful first-time strike, blasting it past Molina and into the net.

"GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!"

"Adriano scores again in the 81st minute!"

"It's 3–0 Atlético Madrid!"

The Calderón exploded once more.

"What a sensational goal! Adriano may have scored, but Torres was the architect, slicing through Deportivo's defense with his pace and vision."

Adriano ran to Torres, embracing the young forward and shouting his name in celebration.

On the sidelines, Yang Hao was grinning ear to ear.

"That's my boy!" he exclaimed.

Deportivo, overwhelmed and deflated, seemed unable to recover.

A Step Closer to the Final

The match ended 3–0, with Atlético triumphing 6–3 on aggregate.

Deportivo's players left the pitch with slumped shoulders, while the Calderón reverberated with jubilant chants.

In the aftermath, Yang Hao remained composed, but his satisfaction was evident. Atlético Madrid had earned their place in the Copa del Rey final.

As the anticipation for the final against Real Madrid grew, Florentino Pérez couldn't hide his unease. For him, Atlético's rise wasn't just a challenge—it was a threat to Real Madrid's centenary celebrations.

Atlético Secures Final Spot with a Decisive Win

As the final whistle sounded, Atlético Madrid defeated Deportivo La Coruña 2–0 at the Calderón Stadium (5–3 on aggregate) to secure their place in the Copa del Rey final.

A Tense Start with Early Drama

In just the 3rd minute, a moment of sheer physicality electrified the Calderón. Adriano, Atlético's powerful Brazilian striker, shrugged off Deportivo's Moroccan defender Naybet like a charging bull. The impact left the defender sprawling, drawing gasps and cheers from the crowd.

Yang Hao, on the sideline, shouted enthusiastically: "That's Strength 99 in action!"

Adriano capitalized on the moment, skillfully maneuvering past César Martín with a sharp turn and rifling a thunderous shot into the back of the net. The Calderón erupted with jubilation as Adriano celebrated his goal with his family in the stands.

Deportivo's Struggles in Attack

Deportivo coach Irureta, visibly frustrated on the sidelines, watched his team flounder. His midfield failed to connect with striker Tristán, while Víctor Sánchez seemed distracted—possibly due to his ongoing mental duel with Patrice Évra.

"What's wrong, Víctor? Focus on the game!" Irureta roared, but his instructions did little to spark life into the team's attack.

By halftime, Atlético led 1–0, further tightening their grip on the aggregate scoreline at 4–3.

Tactical Shifts and a Crucial Blow

During the break, Irureta made changes, substituting veteran Fran for Enrique Romero, shifting Capdevila to a more advanced role on the left. But Atlético's resolute defense continued to frustrate Deportivo's efforts.

By the 60th minute, Irureta rolled the dice, bringing on Pandiani to partner Tristán in a two-striker formation. However, this gamble left Deportivo vulnerable at the back.

In the 64th minute, Atlético pounced. Évra surged forward on the left flank, deftly combining with Deco before delivering a precise through ball. Vicente darted behind the defensive line, beating Deportivo's backline with ease. Calm and composed, he slotted the ball past Molina to make it 2–0.

The Calderón erupted once more, the stands vibrating with chants and celebrations.

"This is it!" the fans roared. They knew the team was bound for the final.

Irureta's Desperation

In a last-ditch effort, Irureta brought on Makaay and deployed three strikers. But Atlético's midfield and defense, expertly orchestrated by Yang Hao, had already neutralized Deportivo's rhythm. Their attacks, limited to long-range efforts, posed little threat to the ever-reliable Van der Sar.

The match ended with Pandiani's speculative strike, a weak reminder of Deportivo's lost momentum.

Atlético Advances Amid Jubilation

At full-time, the Calderón was a sea of euphoria. Fans celebrated as if the team had already claimed the trophy. The significance of the occasion wasn't lost on anyone: Atlético had earned a spot in the Copa del Rey final, which coincided with Real Madrid's centenary celebrations at the Bernabéu.

The prospect of crashing their rival's grand event filled Atlético's faithful with unmatched glee. What better stage to ruin Real Madrid's party than their own centenary final?

Post-Match Reactions

As the players exited the pitch, Yang Hao met Irureta for a handshake.

"You're too defensive. How do you plan to face Real Madrid like this?" Irureta quipped, clearly still irked.

Yang Hao chuckled, unfazed. "Being cautious is wise when we already hold a psychological edge over them," he replied confidently.

Irureta raised an eyebrow, acknowledging the subtle truth in Yang Hao's words. "If you can exploit that advantage, you've already won the first battle. The rest will depend on your team's resolve."

Real Madrid's centenary celebrations had inadvertently put immense pressure on themselves. With no margin for error, the event had shackled their players mentally. For Yang Hao and Atlético, this represented an opportunity to strike.

"If it were me," Irureta admitted, "I'd be confident of beating this Madrid team. But with you and your Atlético… well, I'm less sure."

The implication was clear: while Yang Hao's tactics were effective, his youth and Atlético's relative inexperience in high-stakes finals left questions unanswered.

As Irureta turned to leave, he added: "I can't stand Real Madrid either. In the final, do your best to ruin their day."

Yang Hao grinned at the departing Irureta. "Don't worry," he muttered. "We'll give it everything we've got."

The Path to the Final

With the victory secured, Atlético now faced the daunting task of preparing for a showdown with their fiercest rivals.

The stakes couldn't be higher. A chance to claim the Copa del Rey, to spoil Real Madrid's centenary, and to cement their own resurgence as a force in Spanish football—all awaited on the grandest stage.

END CHAPTER

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