The Three Squads: Pine, Bamboo, and Plum

"Beat Germany? Kid, you really have no idea how high the sky is."

Hearing Koganei's optimism, Byōdōin Hōō couldn't help replying coldly, "Yesterday, Germany didn't even use half of its strength."

The junior high players' hearts sank when they heard Byōdōin's rebuke.

But when they heard the second half of his statement, defiance showed on all their faces.

Noticing the juniors' restlessness and overconfidence, Mifune Nyudo turned his gaze toward Mitsuya and Yanagi Renji, who were serving as strategists.

"Looks like you'll have to explain things to these kids."

"Yes, Head Coach!"

Mitsuya nodded, then glanced at Yanagi beside him. "You take it, Renji."

"Of course, Brother Akito!"

Yanagi opened his half-lidded eyes and said gravely, "Based on the information we've managed to gather, all the BIG4 teams are incredibly strong, and that's especially true of the reigning champions, Germany."

"QP and Bismarck didn't show their true abilities at all during their matches.

"They did that so the French, Swiss, and Spanish players watching from the sidelines couldn't gather information on them. They all held back, showing only half their strength—or even less."

"And that's not even the most frightening part. Two of their professional players haven't appeared yet, even though the main tournament is about to begin.

"Given the current schedule of European tournaments, I estimate they'll join the team before the official matches start."

"What?! Th-three professional players!"

Yanagi's words startled the junior high players and even the high schoolers.

They'd already witnessed the strength of professional players in yesterday's match between Muneyoshi and Polk.

Germany had three players of that caliber in this tournament.

The news poured cold water on the juniors' optimism.

The reigning champions, Germany, were almost unfairly strong.

"Everyone shouldn't focus on Germany alone. Switzerland, ranked second in the BIG4, is also extremely strong."