Kira Ryosuke carefully observed his surroundings. Several people had already surrounded him.
Aside from Aiku, Ariko Juubei and Sendou Akito were also part of the encirclement.
Niko Ikki, meanwhile, moved around Kira Ryosuke, trying to cut off his passing lanes to the others.
At that moment, a smile appeared on Kira Ryosuke's face. His eyes narrowed slightly.
"But if you think you can stop me like this, then it seems I've been underestimated."
As he spoke, Kira Ryosuke used Rice Spirit!
The soccer ball was like Kira Ryosuke's pet, obeying his commands.
Facing the defensive formation that surrounded him, Kira Ryosuke knew he had to attack from its weakest point!
Then, his first target was Sendou Akito!
Sendou Akito's strength was decent for a forward, but as a defender, he still lacked experience.
Kira Ryosuke cleverly kicked the ball to an ambiguous distance with Rice Spirit. Right in front of him was Sendou Akito!
He created an illusion, making Sendou Akito think he had a chance to steal the ball.
And Sendou Akito took the bait. The instant he saw Kira Ryosuke dribbling, he immediately leaned forward and attempted a tackle!
"Don't fall for it, Sendou!"
Aiku had extensive defensive experience. He had naturally seen through Kira Ryosuke's trap and hurriedly warned Sendou Akito.
But it was already too late. Sendou Akito's center of gravity had shifted, giving Kira Ryosuke ample room to get past him—
But at nearly the same time, Ariko Juubei closed in and blocked Kira Ryosuke's path, covering the gap left by Sendou Akito's loss of position.
"I'll hold the line!"
They had practiced this kind of coordinated defense long ago. Whenever one of them risked losing position, their teammates would provide cover as quickly as possible.
This defense could practically be called watertight.
Of course,