Time on the Run 2

The bus ride back to Igualada was buzzing with energy. After their victory against CF Vilanova, spirits were high, but Daniel knew this was just the beginning. One win wouldn't guarantee success—the season was long, and every team in the division was hungry for the title.

Coach Morales, ever the realist, stood up at the front of the bus. "Bien jugado, pero no se confíen. Este es solo el primer paso."

Miguel chuckled and translated for Daniel. "He said, 'Well played, but don't get too confident. This is just the first step.'"

Daniel nodded. He wasn't the type to celebrate too soon. His mind was already on the next match.

Monday morning came fast, and Daniel found himself back in class. Sitting next to Sofia, he glanced at the equations on the board. The upcoming exams were creeping closer, and he knew he had to balance his training with studying.

Sofia nudged him. "You actually paying attention this time?"

Daniel smirked. "Kind of. I'm trying."

Their teacher, Mr. Ferrer, walked through the rows of desks, handing out practice tests. "These questions are similar to what you'll face in the exams. No excuses."

Daniel sighed. Balancing football and school was no joke.

CF Igualada vs. CE Manresa 

The weekend arrived, and with it came their second league match, this time against CE Manresa, a team known for its structured defense and physical play.

The match was held at Igualada's home stadium, and the stands were packed with supporters.

Starting Lineup:

Striker: LuisMidfield: Miguel, Daniel (starting!)Defense: A mix of experienced players and young talent

Coach Morales had rewarded Daniel's impact from the previous game with a spot in the starting eleven.

The match started with intensity. Manresa was disciplined, closing down spaces quickly and making it difficult for Igualada to build attacks.

27' – Manresa Goal (0-1)

A defensive error allowed Manresa to break through, and their striker made no mistake, curling the ball past the goalkeeper. The Igualada fans groaned.

Daniel gritted his teeth. They needed to respond.

42' – Daniel's Big Chance

A through-ball from Miguel found Daniel inside the box. He controlled it well and took a shot—only for the goalkeeper to tip it onto the post.

Halftime: CF Igualada 0-1 CE Manresa

Coach Morales kept his instructions simple. "Sean pacientes. Tendrán su oportunidad."

Miguel translated. "Be patient. We'll get our chance."

Second Half – The Fightback

The team pushed forward with more urgency. Daniel started to use his agility and quick decision-making to open up spaces.

65' – GOAL! LUIS SCORES! (1-1)

A brilliant passing move ended with Luis smashing the ball into the net. The stadium erupted.

The final minutes of the game were tense. Manresa sat deep, defending with everything they had.

89' – PENALTY FOR IGUALADA!

Daniel, dribbling past two defenders, was clipped inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot!

The responsibility fell to Miguel. He stepped up, took a deep breath, and—

GOAL! (2-1 CF Igualada!)

The whistle blew soon after, confirming another hard-fought win.

After the Match

As Daniel walked off the pitch, he spotted Sofia watching from the stands. This time, she was waiting by the tunnel.

"You played well," she said with a small smile.

Daniel, still catching his breath, grinned. "You came to watch?"

She shrugged. "Maybe."

Miguel passed by, smirking. "Oye, Daniel, ¿un café con Sofia después del partido?"

Daniel hesitated. His Spanish wasn't great, but he understood that much. He turned to Sofia. "Uh… coffee?"

Sofia raised an eyebrow, then laughed. "Sure."

Miguel gave Daniel a slap on the back. "Look at you, Carter. Winning on and off the field."