Ch. 241Believe in Science!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Ajax players gather for training; Van der Vaart arrives upset due to losing the European Golden Boy Award to Su Dong.
  • Tuttosport's editor-in-chief presents the award to Su Dong at Valencia's training base, followed by an exclusive interview.
  • Valencia's management and players praise Su Dong in interviews with Tuttosport.
  • Su Dong's teammates demand he treat them to meals and a team-building outing.

Character Developments

  • Rafael van der Vaart: Struggles with losing the European Golden Boy Award to Su Dong, feels dejected and determined to defeat Su Dong on the field.
  • Zlatan Ibrahimovic: Smirks at Van der Vaart's loss, sees Su Dong as a potential rival, and expresses disbelief in exaggerated media reports.
  • Su Dong: Wins the European Golden Boy Award, remains humble, and attributes his success to his teammates. He faces demands from his teammates for meals and outings.

Significant Themes

  • Hubris and Humility: Van der Vaart's pride in losing, Su Dong's humility in winning.
  • Media Influence: The impact of media reports on players' perceptions and expectations.
  • Team Dynamics: The camaraderie and banter among Valencia's players.

Character Interactions

  • Van der Vaart and his teammates: Support each other, share disappointment in Van der Vaart's loss.
  • Ibrahimovic and Maxwell: Discuss Su Dong's strengths, express skepticism about media reports.
  • Su Dong and his teammates: Tease Su Dong about his award, demand he treat them to meals and an outing.
  • Su Dong and Tuttosport: Award presentation and interview, with Su Dong attributing his success to his teammates.

Ch. 242That Kid Isn't Human!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia plays away against Albacete in La Liga.
  • Benítez makes strategic substitutions: Mohamed Sissoko is replaced by Baraja, and Jorge López is replaced by Su Dong.
  • Su Dong scores the winning goal in the 88th minute after a series of skillful feints, defeating Albacete 1-0.
  • Real Madrid loses to Real Sociedad, maintaining Valencia's five-point lead at the top.
  • Deportivo La Coruña draws, and Barcelona improves with two wins and a draw.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong proves his importance to Valencia by scoring a crucial goal after recovering from injury and coming off the bench.
  • Pabolo Ibanez, a defender for Albacete, acknowledges Su Dong's exceptional skills, stating, "This kid isn't human at all."
  • Mista, Valencia's other striker, feels the pressure from Su Dong's goal-scoring ability.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of individual skill and impact on team success, exemplified by Su Dong's game-winning goal.
  • The mental and physical toll of high-level competition, shown through Pabolo Ibanez's despair and exhaustion.
  • The pressure and expectations placed on top scorers, as experienced by Mista.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong and Mista demonstrate effective cooperation as striking partners.
  • Pabolo Ibanez and Su Dong engage in a tense, skill-based rivalry, with Ibanez ultimately acknowledging Su Dong's superior abilities.
  • Benítez's strategic substitutions prove crucial in securing Valencia's victory.

Ch. 243You Can't Catch Me!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Su Dong returns from injury and scores a goal and provides an assist in Valencia's 4-1 away win against Málaga.
  • Pellegrino faints during the match, causing concern but later diagnosed with no serious issues.
  • Real Madrid and Barcelona secure wins, with Ronaldo scoring a brace against Valladolid and Barcelona thrashing Albacete 5-0.
  • Valencia prepares to face Atlético Madrid at home, with both teams dealing with injuries.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong's confidence grows with his scoring streak, and he takes on more responsibility for Valencia's offense.
  • Ronaldo scores a brace, boasting about his goals to Su Dong, who remains unfazed.
  • Benítez adjusts his tactics due to injuries, deploying a 4-4-2 formation against Atlético Madrid.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of individual players to their teams' success (Su Dong's impact on Valencia, Torres' on Atlético Madrid).
  • The challenges and consequences of injuries on team performance.
  • The competitive nature of La Liga, with Valencia facing crucial matches against Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong and Ronaldo engage in friendly banter over their goal-scoring records.
  • Benítez and Manzano (Atlético Madrid's coach) strategize and make tactical adjustments for their teams' matches.
  • Su Dong, Vicente, and Baraja connect and dominate the midfield against Atlético Madrid.

Ch. 244Curiosity Killed the Cat

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Su Dong, intrigued by Argentinian players' long hair, wonders about the trend but refrains from asking Matias Lequi.
  • Lequi, misinterpreting Su Dong's gaze, becomes paranoid about his sexual orientation and suspects Su Dong's intentions.
  • During a corner kick, Lequi's distraction allows Su Dong to score a header, putting Atlético Madrid behind.
  • Valencia wins 3-0, extending their lead in La Liga. Barcelona and Real Madrid follow closely.
  • Upcoming matches: Valencia faces Real Madrid and Barcelona, while Real Madrid plays Sevilla in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Maintains his scoring form, leading the top scorers' list with 23 goals. His curiosity about Argentinian players' long hair is a minor character trait.
  • Matias Lequi: Struggles with self-doubt and paranoia, leading to a crucial mistake in the match. His insecurities about his sexual orientation cause him to misinterpret Su Dong's actions.

Significant Themes

  • Curiosity and its consequences: Su Dong's curiosity about Argentinian players' long hair leads to misunderstandings and Lequi's paranoia.
  • Distraction and focus: Lequi's distraction during the corner kick results in a goal against his team, highlighting the importance of concentration in sports.
  • Sexual orientation and identity: Lequi's fears about his sexual orientation and Su Dong's perceived advances create tension and misunderstandings between them.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong and Matias Lequi: Their interactions are strained due to Lequi's misinterpretation of Su Dong's curiosity. This leads to a crucial mistake in the match, affecting their team's performance.
  • Valencia and Atlético Madrid: The match between these two teams results in a 3-0 victory for Valencia, further solidifying their lead in La Liga.
  • Real Madrid and Valencia: The upcoming match between these two teams is anticipated to be crucial in determining the outcome of the La Liga title race.

Ch. 245That Plot Was Way Too Ridiculous, Wasn't It?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia players voluntarily train on their day off, showing determination for the upcoming Real Madrid match.
  • Aimar and Pellegrino return from injuries, strengthening the team.
  • Real Madrid plays the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Seville. Zidane is sent off with a red card, ensuring he'll miss the crucial La Liga match against Valencia.

Character Developments

  • The Valencia team demonstrates unity, discipline, and determination in their training and preparation.
  • Zidane's red card suspension boosts Valencia's confidence in their upcoming match against Real Madrid.

Significant Themes

  • Teamwork and unity among the Valencia players.
  • The influence of refereeing decisions on matches, particularly favoring star players and home teams.
  • The importance of mental preparation and confidence in high-stakes matches.

Character Interactions

  • The Valencia players discuss Real Madrid's referee bias and their strategy for the upcoming match.
  • Su Dong expresses confidence in Valencia's ability to win at the Bernabéu, boosting his teammates' morale.
  • Albelda, a staunch anti-Real Madrid supporter, voices his determination to defeat Real Madrid at their home stadium.

Ch. 246I Have a Zidane Too

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia charters a plane to Madrid for a crucial match against Real Madrid.
  • Benítez prepares the team by discussing various match scenarios and Real Madrid's likely tactics without Zidane.
  • Valencia's players and coach acknowledge the uncertainty and potential advantages of Zidane's absence.
  • Benítez strategizes to counter Real Madrid's expected wing-focused attack.
  • Refereeing issues in La Liga are discussed, with Benítez advising his team to focus on their performance and avoid giving the referee reasons to make calls against them.

Character Developments

  • Benítez demonstrates his tactical prowess and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Su Dong shows confidence and composure, engaging in friendly banter with Ronaldo before the match.

Significant Themes

  • Tactical adaptability and preparation for different scenarios.
  • The impact of referee decisions on the game and the league.
  • The importance of teamwork and cooperation in executing a strategy.

Character Interactions

  • Benítez interacts with his players, providing clear instructions and fostering a sense of unity and purpose.
  • Su Dong and Ronaldo engage in friendly trash-talk before the match, showcasing their camaraderie despite being rivals.
  • The Valencia team arrives at the Bernabéu together, displaying solidarity and determination.

Ch. 247Besides Real Madrid, No One Gets to Win!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The match between Real Madrid and Valencia begins controversially with an offside call against Su Dong.
  • Both teams have early scoring opportunities, but neither capitalizes.
  • Real Madrid gains more possession and free-kick opportunities, but Valencia's defense holds strong.
  • In the 42nd minute, a controversial penalty is awarded to Real Madrid after Marchena grapples with Raúl during a free-kick. Figo scores the penalty, giving Real Madrid a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong shows determination and skill but is frustrated by the referee's calls.
  • Raúl demonstrates his competitive spirit but is outmuscled by Marchena.
  • Marchena's inconsistency in defense is highlighted.
  • Figo maintains his composure and scores the penalty.

Significant Themes

  • Home Advantage: Real Madrid's dominance at the Bernabéu Stadium is emphasized, with the suggestion that they have an unfair advantage.
  • Controversial Refereeing: The referee's decisions significantly impact the game, with a questionable offside call and a controversial penalty award.
  • Mental Resilience: Both teams show determination and resilience in the face of adversity, with Valencia's players protesting the penalty but ultimately accepting it, and Real Madrid's players not celebrating excessively.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong and Aimar discuss the conspiracy-like atmosphere at the Bernabéu.
  • Raúl and Marchena grapple during a free-kick, leading to the controversial penalty.
  • Real Madrid's players show frustration at the undeserved goal, while Valencia's players protest the referee's decision.
  • Benítez urges his players to remain calm and composed after the penalty.

Ch. 248Bernabéu Stadium's Away Dressing Room

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia's away locker room is silent and dejected after a phantom penalty puts them a goal down against Real Madrid.
  • Su Dong suggests a proactive approach in the second half, pushing forward to attack and reclaim the goal.
  • Valencia implements this strategy, equalizing within six minutes of the second half through Su Dong's diving header.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong, despite being a new recruit, takes the initiative to change the team's strategy, showing leadership and confidence.
  • The Valencia players, initially demoralized, regain their fighting spirit after Su Dong's suggestion and their equalizing goal.

Significant Themes

  • The influence of power dynamics and privileges in La Liga, as seen through the referee's controversial decision.
  • The importance of adaptability and initiative in football, demonstrated by Su Dong's suggestion and Valencia's turnaround.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong interacts with his teammates, inspiring them and leading the charge for an attacking strategy.
  • The Valencia players rally together, supporting each other and showing unity in their fight against Real Madrid.

Ch. 249He Was Still Human, Wasn't He?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Su Dong scores two spectacular goals against Real Madrid at the Bernabéu Stadium, one a diving header and the other a sideways volley.
  • Real Madrid President Florentino, King Juan Carlos I, and Prime Minister Aznar discuss Su Dong's potential and his impact on Spanish football and the Asian market.
  • Real Madrid, despite being the dominant team, struggles with defense and physical condition, leading to Valencia's victory.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Proves his prowess with two incredible goals, demonstrating his growth and potential. His impact on the game and the Asian market catches the attention of high-profile figures.
  • Florentino: Recognizes Su Dong's potential and the opportunity he presents for Real Madrid's globalization efforts. Considers signing him despite Valencia's anti-Real Madrid stance.
  • Aznar: Sees Su Dong as a potential asset for Spain's Asian strategy and encourages Florentino to keep him in La Liga.
  • King Juan Carlos I: Impressed by Su Dong's performance, compares him to Ronaldo in his prime.

Significant Themes

  • The impact of individual talent on team success and national strategy.
  • The global influence of football and the potential of the Asian market.
  • The tension between Real Madrid and Valencia, with Su Dong's transfer becoming a potential point of contention.

Character Interactions

  • Florentino, Aznar, and King Juan Carlos I discuss Su Dong's potential and the opportunities he presents.
  • Real Madrid players marvel at Su Dong's performance, with Figo comparing him to Ronaldo and questioning his humanity.
  • Su Dong's goals spark a turnaround in the game and the crowd's reaction, with Real Madrid fans applauding him despite their team's loss.

Ch. 250Sign Him!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia defeats Real Madrid 3-1 at the Bernabéu Stadium.
  • Su Dong scores a brace, leading Valencia's comeback.
  • Real Madrid's superstars underperform, struggling to break Valencia's defense.
  • Queiroz's substitution strategy is criticized due to Real Madrid's weak bench.
  • Ronaldo and Su Dong exchange a tense nod after the match.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Proves his worth as a top striker, scoring crucial goals and attracting attention from other top clubs.
  • Queiroz: Faces criticism for his coaching decisions and Real Madrid's weak bench.
  • Ronaldo: Struggles with Real Madrid's defeat and the pressure of maintaining his status as the league's top scorer.

Significant Themes

  • The pressure and expectations on top managers and players in high-stakes matches.
  • The importance of a strong bench in football strategy.
  • The tension between rival clubs and the impact on player transfers.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong and Ronaldo: Exchange a tense nod after the match, reflecting their competitive relationship and the pressure both feel.
  • Queiroz and Benítez: The coaches shake hands after the match, showing sportsmanship despite the intense rivalry between their teams.
  • Su Dong and Queiroz: The coach praises Su Dong's performance, showing respect for his opponent's talent.

Media Reaction

  • Spanish sports media criticize referee Oliva's officiating and praise Su Dong's performance.
  • Catalan media urge Barcelona to sign Su Dong to prevent him from joining Real Madrid.
  • Cruyff appeals for Barcelona to sign Su Dong, believing he fits perfectly with their playing style.

Ch. 251Giant Slayer

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Rodrigo, a National Newspaper reporter, meets Nuno Cruz, Su Dong's private coach, to discuss Su Dong's career and achievements.
  • Rodrigo interviews Nuno Cruz about Su Dong's first season at Valencia, his training methods, and his potential future as a player.
  • They discuss Su Dong's personal life, including his preference for women and his zodiac sign (Virgo).
  • The conversation touches on Su Dong's potential transfers to Real Madrid or Barcelona, with Nuno Cruz diplomatically suggesting he should stay at Valencia.
  • They discuss Su Dong's nickname, "Giant Killer," and Nuno Cruz expresses anticipation for Su Dong's potential goal against Barcelona.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Portrayed as humble, hardworking, and dedicated to football. He's picky about women and hasn't found one who moves him yet. He's a "giant killer" on the field, scoring against top La Liga teams.
  • Nuno Cruz: A professional and dedicated coach who admires Su Dong's work ethic and progress. He's loyal to Su Dong and avoids discussing sensitive topics like potential transfers.

Significant Themes

  • Hard Work: Su Dong's dedication to training and his career is emphasized throughout the chapter.
  • Humble Nature: Both Su Dong and Nuno Cruz exhibit humility, with Su Dong attributing his achievements to others and Nuno Cruz being modest about his role in Su Dong's success.
  • Potential vs. Reality: The conversation explores the expectations and realities of Su Dong's career, with Nuno Cruz acknowledging that Su Dong often exceeds expectations.

Character Interactions

  • Rodrigo and Nuno Cruz: Rodrigo probes Nuno Cruz for information about Su Dong, while Nuno Cruz provides insightful responses while avoiding sensitive topics.
  • Nuno Cruz and Su Dong: Their relationship is portrayed as one of trust and friendship, with Nuno Cruz describing them as equals rather than employer and employee.

Ch. 252Real Madrid's Seventh Galáctico

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Real Madrid plans to sign Valencia's top scorer, Su Dong, as their seventh Galáctico.
  • Florentino, Real Madrid's president, had a conversation with Valencia's general manager, Subirats, about Su Dong's transfer.
  • Real Madrid is willing to pay a high transfer fee for Su Dong, potentially even more than Ronaldo's transfer fee two years ago.
  • The news causes a stir in Spanish and European football, with Barcelona also showing interest in Su Dong.
  • Valencia clarifies that they haven't received any official offers and plan to keep Su Dong for the new season.
  • Valencia prepares for a crucial home match against Barcelona, with Aimar's injury status uncertain.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Emerges as a highly anticipated young superstar, sought after by Real Madrid and Barcelona.
  • Florentino: Sticks to his tradition of signing one superstar per year for Real Madrid.
  • Subirats: Valencia's general manager, who remains tight-lipped about transfer negotiations and focuses on the team's performance.

Significant Themes

  • The transfer market's influence on team performance and finances.
  • The commercial value of players, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
  • The tension between rival clubs (Real Madrid vs. Barcelona, Valencia vs. Barcelona) in the transfer market and on the field.

Character Interactions

  • Florentino and Subirats: Their conversation hints at Real Madrid's interest in signing Su Dong.
  • Real Madrid and Barcelona: Both clubs show interest in Su Dong, creating tension between them.
  • Valencia's management and players: They remain focused on their La Liga campaign, with Subirats emphasizing the team's unity and determination to win the championship.

Ch. 253God, It Was Only the Twenty-Seventh Minute!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Su Dong scores two stunning goals against Barcelona in the first 27 minutes of the match at Mestalla Stadium, leaving fans and viewers breathless.
  • Barcelona's president, Laporta, attends the match, signaling his interest in signing Su Dong.
  • Laporta reveals that Barcelona had considered signing Su Dong the previous summer but missed out due to the presidential election.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong's exceptional performance and potential continue to grow, making him a hot commodity in European football.
  • Roig (Valencia's president) and Subirats (Valencia's general manager) remain firm in their stance that they have no plans to sell Su Dong, despite interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Significant Themes

  • Ambition and competition among football clubs, with Barcelona and Real Madrid vying for Su Dong's signature.
  • The commercialization of football, with clubs treating transfers as business deals.
  • The emotional aspect of football, with fans' preferences and club rivalries influencing transfer decisions.

Character Interactions

  • Laporta, Roig, and Subirats engage in a tense negotiation, with Laporta trying to gauge Valencia's willingness to sell Su Dong to Barcelona or Real Madrid.
  • Su Dong's goals spark intense reactions from fans, further emphasizing his importance and value to Valencia and other clubs.

Ch. 254Rivaling Ronaldo

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Valencia leads Barcelona 2-0 in the first half, with Su Dong scoring both goals.
  • Barcelona struggles to counter Valencia's tactics, which fully utilize Su Dong's abilities.
  • Barcelona's head coach Rijkaard and assistant coach Ten Cate discuss the possibility of signing Su Dong.
  • Su Dong misses a chance to score a third goal due to a collision between Barcelona's goalkeeper and defender.
  • Both teams become cautious in the second half, with Valencia saving energy for their Champions League match.
  • Barcelona scores a late goal but ultimately loses 2-1.
  • Su Dong scores his twenty-seventh La Liga goal of the season.
  • Real Madrid defeats Espanyol 4-2 away, with Ronaldo scoring twice.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Proves his worth as an exceptional center forward, scoring twice against Barcelona and nearing Ronaldo's goal-scoring record.
  • Rijkaard: Struggles to find solutions against Su Dong and considers signing him but is hesitant due to the high transfer fee.
  • Ten Cate: Praises Su Dong's abilities and advocates for Barcelona to sign him, despite the high cost.
  • Ronaldo: Scores twice against Espanyol, seemingly competing with Su Dong's performance.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of a powerful center forward in football.
  • The high cost of top-tier players and the risk involved in signing them.
  • The competition between Su Dong and Ronaldo, both in terms of goal-scoring and transfer value.

Character Interactions

  • Rijkaard and Ten Cate discuss the possibility of signing Su Dong, with Ten Cate being more enthusiastic about the idea.
  • Su Dong interacts with his teammates, particularly Mista, during their attacks and celebrations.
  • Ronaldo indirectly interacts with Su Dong through their respective matches and goal-scoring feats.

Ch. 255Is Su Dong God's Prank?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Bayern Munich's coach, Ottmar Hitzfeld, and his assistant, Michel Henke, analyze Valencia's strengths, focusing on Su Dong, ahead of their Champions League match.
  • Hitzfeld regrets not signing Su Dong instead of Roy Makaay, as Su Dong's versatility and prowess pose a significant threat to Bayern's defense.
  • Hitzfeld decides to play both Demichelis and Hargreaves in midfield to strengthen defense against Su Dong and Valencia's wingers, Vicente and Rufete.
  • Valencia's coach, Rafael Benítez, prepares for the match without Aimar, deciding to start Canobbio in midfield and emphasizing Su Dong's role in pressuring Bayern's defense.

Character Developments

  • Hitzfeld shows regret over his past decision and determination to secure victories for Bayern Munich before stepping down due to health issues.
  • Su Dong is portrayed as a versatile and formidable center forward, capable of adapting to various roles and posing a significant threat to opponents.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of adaptability and versatility in football, exemplified by Su Dong's ability to play multiple roles.
  • The strategic planning and tactical decisions made by coaches to counter specific threats, such as Hitzfeld's defensive midfield strategy and Benítez's focus on Su Dong's pressure on the opponent's defense.

Character Interactions

  • Hitzfeld and Michel Henke discuss strategies and share concerns about Bayern Munich's defense and Su Dong's threat.
  • Benítez and his coaching staff prepare for the match, emphasizing Su Dong's role and the need for him to be mentally prepared for challenges.

Ch. 256Captain, Could You Teach Me a Few Tricks?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Wang Chuqing, a Chinese student in Munich, is preparing for an internship at BMW by analyzing legal risks for German car companies in Europe and China.
  • Her roommates invite her to a Bayern Munich vs. Valencia football match, but she declines due to her studies.
  • Wang Chuqing reflects on Su Dong, her part-time boss at BMW, and hopes for Valencia's victory.

Character Developments

  • Wang Chuqing: She is determined, focused, and dedicated to her studies and career. She values her independence and doesn't want to rely on others for help.
  • Su Dong: He has become a symbol of pride for Chinese students abroad, with many hoping for his success in the Champions League.

Significant Themes

  • Ambition and determination: Wang Chuqing's dedication to her studies and career, and the Valencia team's ambition to win the Champions League.
  • Independence and self-reliance: Wang Chuqing's refusal to ask for help from Su Dong, and her desire to achieve things on her own merits.

Character Interactions

  • Wang Chuqing and her roommates: Leon, Thomassen, and Jin Taizhen invite her to the football match, but she declines. Jin Taizhen is jealous of Wang Chuqing's attention from their male roommates.
  • Wang Chuqing and Su Dong: Although they haven't met in person, Wang Chuqing admires Su Dong and hopes for his success in the Champions League.

Ch. 257Captain, Can You Teach Me a Thing or Two?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Wang Chuqing, a Chinese student in Munich, is invited by her roommates to watch a Bayern Munich vs. Valencia football match, but she declines due to her academic commitments.
  • Su Dong, a key player for Valencia, is preparing for the match against Bayern Munich, feeling emotional about competing against his former idols.

Character Developments

  • Wang Chuqing: She is determined, focused on her academic and career goals, and prefers to achieve things through her own efforts rather than relying on others.
  • Su Dong: He has grown significantly as a player and is now competing against his former idols. He feels emotional about the match but remains focused on the game.

Significant Themes

  • Ambition and determination (Wang Chuqing's pursuit of her academic and career goals; Su Dong's growth as a player)
  • The transient nature of opportunities (Valencia's current success and the players' awareness that such opportunities may not come again)
  • The struggle between personal and social expectations (Jin Taizhen's desire to stay in Europe vs. Wang Chuqing's independent approach)

Character Interactions

  • Wang Chuqing and her roommates (Leon, Thomassen, and Jin Taizhen) interact, with Leon and Thomassen trying to get close to Wang Chuqing, while Jin Taizhen feels jealous and uncomfortable.
  • Su Dong and Captain Albelda share a moment of reflection before the match, with Albelda expressing gratitude towards Su Dong for the opportunities he has brought to the team.

Ch. 258Su Dong, You're Still Wet Behind the Ears!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Bayern Munich surprises with a conservative approach at home, disrupting Valencia's plans.
  • Hitzfeld replaces Salihamidžić with Demi, forming a defensive midfield trio that suppresses Valencia's offense.
  • Makay scores a headed goal from a 45-degree cross, putting Bayern Munich ahead 1-0.
  • Su Dong struggles to receive effective passes and is double-teamed upon receiving the ball.
  • Valencia's defense exposes weaknesses, and they concede a goal in the 20th minute.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Struggles initially but shows brilliance with a dribbling display that includes a Marseille Turn. He compares himself to Makay and feels the pressure to perform.
  • Makay: Scores the opening goal, proving his worth and putting pressure on Su Dong.
  • Benítez: Realizes his tactical plan has been outmaneuvered and adjusts his strategy at halftime, substituting Mista for Canobbio and pulling Su Dong back to avoid pressure.

Significant Themes

  • Tactical outplaying: Hitzfeld's conservative approach surprises Benítez, and his tactical adjustments disrupt Valencia's plans.
  • Pressure and performance: Su Dong feels the pressure of living up to expectations and compares himself to Makay after the latter scores.
  • Adaptability: Benítez adjusts his strategy at halftime to counter Bayern Munich's tactics.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong vs. Makay: The two strikers indirectly compete, with Makay scoring first and putting pressure on Su Dong.
  • Benítez and Valencia players: Benítez adjusts his strategy at halftime, urging the team to strengthen midfield control and pressure Bayern Munich's full-backs.
  • Hitzfeld and Bayern Munich: Hitzfeld's conservative approach surprises Valencia, and his tactical adjustments disrupt their plans.

Ch. 259Su Dong Went Berserk!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The second half begins with no changes to Bayern Munich's lineup, but Valencia substitutes Mista for Canobbio.
  • Su Dong scores a crucial away goal for Valencia in the 58th minute, equalizing the score at 1-1.
  • Bayern Munich substitutes Salihamidžić for Lizarazu to strengthen their attack.
  • Valencia tightens their defense, focusing on protecting their goal.
  • In the 76th minute, Su Dong goes on a solo run, breaking through Bayern Munich's defense, and scores a second goal for Valencia, putting them ahead 2-1.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong demonstrates his exceptional skills, scoring two vital goals and showcasing his speed, power, and technical ability.
  • Hitzfeld, Bayern Munich's coach, becomes increasingly restless and makes substitutions to try and turn the game around.
  • Benítez, Valencia's coach, maintains a defensive strategy, focusing on protecting their goal and waiting for opportunities.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of away goals in the Champions League.
  • The contrast between Valencia's defensive strategy and Bayern Munich's attacking approach.
  • The impact of individual player skills and determination on the outcome of a match.

Character Interactions

  • Su Dong interacts with his teammates, combining with Mista for the second goal.
  • Hitzfeld and Benítez engage in a tactical battle, with each coach making strategic substitutions to gain an advantage.
  • The players on the field clash, with Su Dong's powerful runs breaking through Bayern Munich's defense.

Ch. 260He's Back at Full Strength!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Benítez repeatedly urges Su Dong to be more selfish and prioritize scoring goals.
  • In a crucial match against Bayern Munich, Su Dong scores a brace, demonstrating his newfound selfishness in front of goal.
  • Su Dong's celebration after scoring draws criticism from Bayern Munich's fans and regret from their management, who had previously passed on signing him.

Character Developments

  • Su Dong: Overcomes his selfless nature and learns to prioritize scoring goals, leading to a successful performance against Bayern Munich.
  • Benítez: Sticks to his coaching philosophy, pushing Su Dong to be more selfish and celebrating his progress.

Significant Themes

  • Selfishness vs. selflessness in football, particularly for a striker.
  • The importance of confidence and belief in one's abilities.
  • The regret of missed opportunities in football, both for players and clubs.

Character Interactions

  • Benítez and Su Dong: The coach's persistent guidance leads to the player's growth and improved performance.
  • Su Dong and Mista: Despite Mista's initial disappointment at not receiving a pass, he acknowledges Su Dong's status and importance to the team.
  • Bayern Munich's management and Su Dong: They regret not signing Su Dong and acknowledge his unique talent.
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