The Road to the Promised Land: Chapter 57

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==The Promised Land==
Sunday June 2
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Manchester United (UEFA Champions League final)
Stade de France, Saint-Denis, France
12:56 AM CEST (11:56 PM BST) - First minute of injury time in the 2nd period of extra time.
As we entered stoppage time at the end of extra time in the final that already saw a lot more than usual, tension was reaching its peak level on the night and in the stands as everyone knew that a late goal would almost certainly decide the destination of the European Cup. Noriko and her friends' relatives were anxiously watching from the Manchester United end as PSG launched a counterattack through the running Kylian Mbappé.
"NO! NO! NO! STOP HIM!!" Noriko shouted.
"GET BACK!" Mito added.
Mbappé continued his run until he entered the Manchester United penalty area, where he cut the pass back in the middle for Leonardo Silva. But the following shot from the Brazilian playmaker was snared by Jan, much to a collective relief among Manchester United fans.
"Oof, that was dangerously close." Mito said.
"You're right about that." Eiko replied.
"COME ON!! LET'S GO!!" Noriko shouted.
Echoing Noriko's shout, tens of thousands of Manchester United supporters roared in unison in an attempt to give their team a boost. Within seconds, the ball went up the pitch from the Manchester United goalkeeper to Nikolaj, then to Yusuke, and then to Nana. With Manchester United supporters standing behind the PSG goal, they saw their team moving up. But as soon as Nana received the ball a dozen yards in front of the PSG penalty area, she was surrounded by 3 PSG players.
"Trapped!" Mito said.
'There's no way she can perform a Witch Turn from there, not with a triangular pressure.' Noriko thought as she kept on filming with her camera.
Watching anxiously the action unfold, the supporters were not expecting anything audacious from Nana. However, the Little Witch surprised everyone by catapulting the ball above a couple of PSG defenders and into Kakeru's path.
"Ooohh!!" Mito exclaimed.
"GREAT BALL!!" Noriko shouted.
Tens of thousands in the crowd roared in anticipation as Kakeru faced Mikiya one-on-one. After a small bounce of the ball off his chest, Kakeru whipped the left-footed strike beyond the PSG goalkeeper and into the back of the net. In a split second, the red half of the stadium erupted in an explosion of noise and joy.
"YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAHHHH!!!"
Noriko tried to hold her camera as steady as possible, but it was pandemonium everywhere around her. Manchester United supporters were jumping all around her, hugging each other, and giving high-fives. In the midst of the celebrations, Noriko switched from filming the crowd to filming herself.
"AIZAWA!!! OH MY GOD!!! 4-3!!!" Noriko exclaimed in front of her camera.
Clive Tyldesley: IT'S 4-3!!! A BRILLIANT STRIKE... BY KAKERU AIZAWA TO GET THE LEAD!! BUT WHAT A PASS! WHAT A PASS FROM NANA MISHIMA TO PUT HIM IN! AND JAPAN'S FOOTBALLING SWEEHEARTS HAVE PUT MANCHESTER UNITED ON THE VERGE OF HISTORY IN STOPPAGE TIME IN EXTRA TIME!!!
Mito hugged Noriko, who then gave high-fives to some of her friends' relatives. After a few celebrations, Noriko went back to her fan cam.
"4-3 UNITED!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!!" Noriko shouted.
Meanwhile around the world, the same scenes were repeated in every single place where Manchester United supporters were watching the final. At a packed Old Trafford in Manchester, it was total euphoria from the moment the ball went in the back of the net. Back inside at the Stade de France though, a fan celebrated by popping a smuggled night time flare in the Manchester United supporters' end of the stadium.
"THAT'S MY BROTHER!!!" Mito joyfully shouted in front of Noriko's camera.
"Aizawa volleyed it past Tono in the 121st minute! But what a play by Nana Mishima! Surrounded by 3 PSG players, she made the perfect pass to find Kakeru Aizawa on the spot! And if United can hold on a little longer, they will be Champions of Europe!" Noriko narrated.
Alan Keegan: UNITED'S GOAL... SCORED BY NUMBER TEN... KAKERUUUUU AIZAWAAAAA!!!!
Most of the PSG players were left in total shock after the conceding of the goal, but Leonardo Silva was having none of it. The last thing he wanted was to lose to an Aizawa on the biggest stage of club football in the world.
"On a le temps de compter le prochain but! Alors on se magne, les gars! (We have time to score the next goal! So hurry up, guys!)" Leonardo rallied his teammates as he took the ball with him.
"Il a raison! On se grouille le cul! (He's right! Let's haul ass!)" Kylian Mbappé added.
"ALLONS-Y! (LET'S GO!)" the PSG players replied.
Just as Leonardo carried the ball towards the center circle, he locked his gaze into Kakeru and Nana's eyes for a few seconds. Players on both sides were determined to finish off what they started albeit the situation is a reversal of what it was for most of the evening.
'This will not end like this, Kakeru. We will catch up and we will find a way to win just like we found a way to beat anybody else before – penalties or otherwise.' Leonardo thought.
'Bring it on, Leo. We will stop you no matter the cost will be.' Kakeru thought.
'This game won't end on an individual effort. We will win as a team.' Nana thought.
Meanwhile, Yusuke rallied his teammates as both teams took position in their respective halves before the restart.
"THIS IS IT, GUYS! JUST A LITTLE LONGER!" Yusuke shouted.
Clive Tyldesley: Less than 2 more added minutes, but there might be a little more because of the celebrations. Manchester United are almost there.
PEEEEP!
As soon as the restart whistle was blown, all 10 Manchester United field players moved backwards to defend their own defensive third while the entire PSG lineup moved on the attack. Leonardo Silva ran with the ball beyond Marius, who stood up as the most advanced Manchester United player on the pitch. After advancing a dozen yards, Leonardo passed the ball to his right and towards Thilo Kehrer.
Clive Tyldesley: Leonardo Silva... now Kehrer...
With a large number of players aggregating in the vicinity of the Manchester United penalty area just as Nikolaj was standing in the way, Kehrer watched for passing options forward. Having found none, Kehrer passed the ball back to Leonardo. The Brazilian midfielder was still too far from the Manchester United penalty area to attempt a long-range shot though.
Clive Tyldesley: Back to Leonardo Silva...
"LEO! LEO!" Marco shouted as he initiated a run behind a Manchester United defender.
Leonardo didn't need to look twice before he knew where his brother was going. Without any hesitation, Leonardo lobbed a curved aerial pass that went towards Marco at the far post albeit not in the best position for the younger brother to take a shot. Nevertheless, the pass was accurate enough for Marco to get first to the ball and then hit a looping header across the 6-yard box.
Clive Tyldesley: Antonio beyond the far post...
Marco's pass was meant to reach a teammate at the opposite post. Sneaking his way behind Didier Kamara was Kylian Mbappé; the Frenchman made full advantage of his top sprinting speed to run behind the Ivorian in red. With the ball descending towards an area where the shooting angle was very acute, Mbappé hit the ball immediately.
Clive Tyldesley: Here comes Mbappé!!
However, Jan made a desperate sprint across his own goal line before he threw his body in front of Mbappé's shot. The ball finally hit Jan's right leg and out of play and at the expense of a corner kick. Moans of disbelief from the PSG end were equally matched by cheers at the opposite Manchester United end of the stadium.
Clive Tyldesley: OH, WHAT A SAVE!!! WHAT A SAVE BY JAN FARKAS!!
Kylian Mbappé fell on his knees in disbelief and then beat the grass in anger. Just after the save, Jan was congratulated by his teammates.
"Attaboy, Wolf!" Didier embraced his goalkeeper.
"Good job, Wolf!" Matthias said.
"Stay focused. Come on! Let's go!" Jan replied, directing his teammates to defend.
Clive Tyldesley: He's being congratulated as if he scored a goal! He has in a way because he just saved one. This could be a match-winning moment for the Manchester United goalkeeper.
With both teams setting up for the corner kick, Mikiya was tasked to go only as far up as just before the center circle inside the PSG half. Meanwhile, Kakeru could only think about time remaining to extra time as he and Nana moved to guard the goalposts as they almost always do on corner kicks.
'Man, those seconds feel like hours. It's similar and yet very different to that time in the All Japan High School Tournament. Just a little effort, Kakeru! Just one more!' Kakeru thought.
PEEP!
Clive Tyldesley: Leonardo Silva...
Leonardo whipped the ball towards the group of players in front of the 6-yard box. However, the ball was headed away by a Manchester United defender.
Clive Tyldesley: Headed away by Kristiansen...
Then Leandro Paredes recovered the ball a dozen yards outside the Mancunian penalty area. After a couple of passes in midfield, Kylian Mbappé made a short pass towards Marquinhos. The Brazilian defender had to play on the edge of the penalty area and with his back to the Manchester United goal as Nana was tightly marking him.
Clive Tyldesley: Mbappé... Marquinhos...
Spotting Mbappé on an attempt to make a run by, Marquinhos made a drop pass towards Mbappé.
'Not gonna fool me with that.' Nana thought.
Nana stuck a leg out to cut the pass before the ball could reach Mbappé. At the very same time though, Marquinhos threw himself down upon a slight contact with Marius. However, the referee did not see enough to call a foul against the Dutch striker in red. All of a sudden, a path for a counterattack was open for United.
Clive Tyldesley: Mbappé... Stopped though by Mishima.
When the ball reached Marius, he made a quick through pass for Kakeru to run forward. Kakeru had only one intention: to run down the clock.
Clive Tyldesley: Aizawa can get away... 3 against 3...
Although Marius and Sean joined Kakeru on the counterattack, they also knew that there was no intent for United to seek a goal now unless they were 100% sure of having an opportunity. Under the cheers of his supporters, Kakeru ran with the ball deep inside the PSG half and close to the touchline on the left side before he forced Thilo Kehrer to tackle the ball out of bounds.
Clive Tyldesley: Kehrer puts it out, but Aizawa did the job. A little bit of cheerleading by the Japanese forward.
"COME ON!!!" Kakeru shouted.
The thousands of Mancunian supporters standing at that end of the stadium responded by louder cheers and more singing of praises for their team. Thanks to Kakeru's effort, Manchester United were moving closer to the end of the original 3 minutes of injury time although any supplementary time on top of injury time remained at the referee's own discretion. All that the English team in red had to do was to control the ball and waste the remaining seconds before the final whistle.
Clive Tyldesley: Aizawa will take the throw...
Kakeru took the throw-in with a pass towards Nikolaj, who soon found himself hounded by Julian Draxler. Nevertheless, Nikolaj managed to produce a cheeky backheel pass towards Kakeru to maintain the ball deep inside the PSG half.
Clive Tyldesley: Kristiansen... back to Aizawa...
As soon as Kakeru received the ball, he made a half-spin to evade Kehrer's marking and then pass the ball towards Marius. Approaching the PSG penalty area, the Dutch striker came up face-to-face with Thiago Silva before stalling a little more to lure a few more PSG players nearby.
Clive Tyldesley: Van Leeuwen...
The strategy was working as Sean was arriving in a good position just inside the "D" in front of the PSG penalty area. Marius made a short pass towards Sean, but the young and inexperienced English forward chose to take a shot instead of stalling further with the ball.
Clive Tyldesley: MacKinnon! He skied it high.
The ball went high above the crossbar and out of play. As PSG were looking to push forward perhaps one last time, the Manchester United players were already retreating inside their own half.
"ALLEZ! ALLEZ! (GO! GO!)" Mikiya shouted for his teammates to move forward.
Just as Mikiya took the goal kick, thousands of Manchester United supporters were booing and screeching as they wanted the final whistle to be heard. We were inside the 4th minute of additional time.
"IT'S ALREADY OVER! COME ON!" Mito shouted.
"BLOW THE BLOODY WHISTLE, REF!!!" Noriko angrily shouted.
Clive Tyldesley: Is there one more twist to the tale? One last attack for PSG...
The PSG players moved the action back inside the Manchester United half in a matter of seconds, but then had to find a way to get through the red brick wall of 11 players from Manchester. And once again, Leonardo Silva was the man that PSG looked up to for a miracle.
Clive Tyldesley: Leonardo Silva...
Leonardo was advancing with the ball, but Kakeru was following him like a shadow this time.
"This time, it ends here!" Kakeru said.
"I'm not done yet!" Leonardo replied.
Although there were a few bodies in the way, Leonardo managed to make a pass that got through to Kylian Mbappé. The French forward was quickly surrounded by Nana, Matthias. and Didier. Nevertheless, Mbappé flicked the ball to become a side pass into Leonardo's path.
Clive Tyldesley: Slipped through to Mbappé. Backheel towards Leonardo Silva...
Yusuke saw the danger and then slid down to poke the ball away from Leonardo's reach. However, the ball continued rolling dangerously on the edge and across the width of the penalty area before the left forward Marco Antonio fired a shot-pass towards the Manchester United goal.
Clive Tyldesley: Fantastic challenge by Saeki. Antonio with the shot...
The shot was fired with so much ferocity that it went beyond Jan's reach. However, the ball struck the base of the far goalpost to Jan's left.
Clive Tyldesley: Hits the post!
The rebound was arriving in a dangerous position as Leonardo Silva had the goal gaping in front of him. But just a very tiny fraction of a second after Leonardo took the shot, Nana's leg stood in the way to deflect the ball high and wide to the goal!
Clive Tyldesley: OH, IT'S BLOCKED BY MISHIMA!!! WHAT A CRUCIAL SAVE, AND IT WASN'T MADE BY THE GOALKEEPER THIS TIME!
"Not today, Silva!" Nana said to Leonardo.
The thousands of Manchester United supporters at the other end of the stadium roared in reaction to the save as if their team had scored a goal. Some PSG players put their hands on their heads in disbelief, but Leonardo Silva quickly moved towards the corner flag as he knew that time was almost up.
"Well done, Seven!" Kakeru congratulated Nana.
"Way to go, Witch!" Matthias added.
"This is the last stand! COME ON!" Nana rallied her teammates.
Kakeru and Nana resumed their positions as guardians for the 2 goalposts while both teams were getting ready for the corner kick. With desperation calling, Mikiya ran up the pitch to become an extra attacker.
"Tono is coming up. They are really going for it." Kakeru said to Nana.
"I knew it." Nana replied before she warned her other teammates. "GOALIE'S COMING UP!!!"
"Skipper, watch their keeper. Silva will try aiming at him." Yusuke said to his captain.
"Okay." Matthias replied.
Within a second, Matthias was already marking Mikiya. The tallest players for both teams were confronting each other.
Clive Tyldesley: We are beyond 4 minutes of added time now. Mikiya Tono is moving forward for this PSG corner kick.
Meanwhile in the Manchester United end of the crowd though, the boos and screeching were getting louder as the final whistle was not heard yet while we already exceeded 4 minutes of added time.
"WE ARE BEYOND 4 MINUTES OF ADDED TIME! PSG ARE GOING ALL IN WITH THE CORNER KICK!!" Noriko narrated for her fancam through the surrounding noise.
"I'm begging you, Suguru. Please watch over your brother and your friends down there." Eiko prayed, holding onto Suguru's framed picture as always.
Clive Tyldesley: This is it: the drama of the Champions League final will meet its conclusion here. If Manchester United can hold on, they will win the European Cup. Mikiya Tono is in the box. Leonardo Silva will take the corner kick. No second chance for PSG now.
PEEEP!
Following the referee's whistle, Leonardo launched the ball towards no man's land in front of the 6-yard box. Just as Yusuke expected, Leonardo's main target was Mikiya's tall frame. Then Matthias headed the ball away as he won the aerial duel against the PSG goalkeeper.
Clive Tyldesley: Headed away by Köhler...
The ball went up and down outside of the penalty area, but Leandro Paredes went to take the shot from outside the box. Nevertheless, the shot was partially blocked by Nikolaj before the ball went up high in the air.
Clive Tyldesley: Shot by Paredes... goes off Kristiansen...
Matthias and Mikiya both jumped up for the same ball for a second time. The German got to the ball first, but Mikiya got enough head to deny a full clearance of the ball. The ball ended up at the feet of Julian Draxler just outside the penalty area.
"DRAX!" Leonardo shouted.
Knowing where the shout came from, Draxler made a layoff pass to tee Leonardo up in front of the Mancunian penalty area. Knowing what was about to happen, Yusuke made a desperate run to try blocking any potential shot.
'I have to stop Silva. He's going for it.' Yusuke thought.
With the ball within his range, Leonardo struck a left-footed strike that went past Yusuke. The shot was flying and curving towards the right top corner of the goal (on Jan's left).
Clive Tyldesley: Leonardo Silva with the shot...
The outstretched Slovakian goalkeeper was unable to get a hand on the ball, but Kakeru managed to jump high enough to block the shot with his face. The rebound was still free in front of the goal line though.
Clive Tyldesley: SAVED BY AIZAWA OFF THE LINE!!!
"KEEPER!" Jan shouted.
In a split second, Jan smothered the loose ball in his hands. Cheers erupted among thousands of Manchester United supporters inside the stadium at the same time that several players in red congratulated the big Slovakian goalkeeper. Meanwhile, the referee took a look at his watch and put his whistle to his mouth.
PEEP PEEP PEEEEEEEEEP!!!
At 1:00 AM Paris time, the final whistle was finally heard inside the Stade de France. The sound told all Manchester United supporters that they could finally celebrate a new achievement and arguably the most prestigious of all.
Clive Tyldesley: IT'S MANCHESTER UNITED WRITING HISTORY AGAIN!!! THE NEWLY CROWNED CHAMPIONS OF ENGLAND AND WINNERS OF THE FA CUP ARE THE NEW CHAMPIONS OF EUROPE!!!
"THEY DID IT!!! THEY DID IT!!! THE JOB IS DONE!!!" Noriko exclaimed as she narrated the scene amidst the euphoria.
The personnel on the Manchester United bench ran on the pitch while most of the active Manchester United players went down on their knees or on the ground, all finally relieved that the long journey is over. Elation and tears of joy were on the faces of everyone associated with the Red Devils, on and off the pitch.
"We did it! WE DID IT!" Kakeru shouted as he hugged Nana.
Meanwhile, Nana was on her knees and covering her face.
"It's so hard to believe! It is real!" Nana sobbed.
"Yeah, Seven! We did it, baby! I love you so much!"
"I love you too, Kakeru! We did it! Oh my God!"
Kakeru and Nana continued embracing each other for a few moments, tears of the pure joy rolling down their cheeks. Seconds later, a very emotional Yusuke joined his 2 Japanese friends.
"We are the Champions of Europe! I can't believe it!" Yusuke exclaimed.
"YEAH! We have won the big one, my friend!" Kakeru replied.
"We all did it together, Yusuke!" Nana added.
"It's all thanks to you! I wouldn't have done it without both of you." Yusuke said.
"We wouldn't have done it without you either! This is all ours." Kakeru replied.
Yusuke gave Kakeru and Nana a hug as all 3 Japanese players were only beginning to realize what they just achieved. Then Matthias and Nikolaj came to congratulate Kakeru's last heroic action.
"Great save in the end, Knight!" Matthias said.
"You and Witch really saved us at the end. Great job!" Nikolaj added.
"I somehow knew that he would try to get one shot there. I'm just glad that I stopped it. Thanks, guys." Kakeru replied.
Kakeru was then hugged by the 2 veteran teammates.
Clive Tyldesley: Kakeru Aizawa is the hero when it mattered at both ends of the pitch in the final, and the red flag will be flying high in the French capital tonight. This new generation of Manchester United players have reached the Promised Land that their predecessors had found in 1968, in 1999, and in 2008. They are now European champions for the 4th time – Wembley, Barcelona, Moscow, and now Paris. But everyone will remember this final as the moment when they have sealed their second Treble.
After a few more handshakes and congratulatory hugs among themselves, the Manchester United players went to shake hands and receive the congratulations from their opponents on the night just as the stadium's technical crew was beginning to assemble the stage ahead of the medal and trophy presentation. The overall feeling among PSG players and their thousands of supporters was a mixture of devastation and disappointment as the dream of winning the biggest prize of club football in their "second home" has died.
"One hell of a game, Kakeru. You really made a difference at both ends of the pitch when it mattered. Congratulations." Leonardo said, shaking hands with Kakeru.
"Thank you. You really made us work very hard to earn this moment." Kakeru replied.
"And you really earned it big time. Somewhere out there, I know Suguru is watching you and is really proud of you. Enjoy this moment."
"I know. Thanks, Leo."
Then Nana came next on the list of congratulations from Leonardo.
"I said earlier that you would be considered as an equal talent to me or Suguru if people weren't looking at the gender barrier. But I guess I have to change the tone: you are an equal to the very best in the game regardless of gender. Congratulations." Leonardo said.
"Congratulations on a very good season for you too." Nana replied.
"Hey, enjoy it. That is the best feeling."
"Thanks, I really appreciate it." Nana said.
Finally, Yusuke was the last among the Japanese players in red to be congratulated by the Brazilian talisman.
"Congratulations, Saeki-kun. I know you spent years trying to become as much of a powerhouse as Suguru was, but the path that you took has built you into one of the toughest if not the toughest opponent I've ever faced one-on-one." Leonardo said.
"Thanks. That was one hell of a final that you played tonight too. It could have gone either way; that's how tough it was for all of us." Yusuke replied with a handshake.
"You deserve all of it tonight. Enjoy the moment, Saeki."
"Good luck next season, Silva." Yusuke finished.
Meanwhile, Kakeru went to console Marco Antonio. Leonardo's younger brother was still distraught by the fact that he came so close and yet ended up short of becoming a winner.
"Good game, Marco. Good game." Kakeru said.
"Congrats to you. You deserve it all." Marco replied before both forwards shook hands.
"Thanks, Marco. Your turn will come. Sometimes, you have to lose some games like this before you become a winner. It also happened to me for a while."
"You're right. By the way, sorry for lashing out at your girl earlier. I was in the wrong."
"Not that I expected the apology, but I'm glad you said it. See you next time then." Kakeru finished.
After Marco went on his way, Mikiya came to have a quick chat with the 3 Japanese players in Mancunian red.
"Well, you really found a way just like you often do. Congratulations to all of you." Mikiya said before he began shaking hands.
"You performed some miracles out there tonight. Perhaps the final would not have been this tight until the very end if it wasn't for you." Kakeru said.
"You are as tough to beat now as in our high school days and with the National Team." Yusuke added.
"Still, your time is now. Mine hasn't come yet." Mikiya replied.
"As good as you are, I know it will be your turn sooner than later." Nana said.
"Thanks. I'll let you go now. See you soon."
"See you soon, Tono-san." Kakeru finished.
After the handshake exchange with the PSG players, the Manchester United players all ran and slid on the wet grass to celebrate in front of their supporters at their end of the stadium. Then players and other staff saluted, and sang alongside their supporters. Meanwhile, the silversmith was engraving the name of the winning team on the trophy prior to the ceremony. When the celebrations on the pitch slightly calmed down though, Kakeru and Nana were summoned for a live post-match interview with Des Kelly.
Des Kelly: I'm here with Kakeru Aizawa and Nana Mishima. First, Kakeru, you are the Player of the Match in the final and a Champion of Europe. How does that sound?
Kakeru: I don't know what to say... It is just incredible for me to be here today and to live this dream at long last. We had to fight our way back for so long in the final. We took the most difficult route, but we never gave in. It's not an individual effort; everyone gave their very best. In the end, I think we deserved to win. I have to say kudos to the whole team and to our fans everywhere.
Des Kelly: With your 2 goals, including the match-winner, you have scored 45 goals for Manchester United this season. That now makes the best scoring record by a Premier League player in all club competitions for one season. It's one better than Ruud van Nistelrooy (2002-03) and Mohamed Salah (2017-18). What would you say about that achievement?
Kakeru: Wow, you're telling me about it for the first time! Well, it is a great honor to be standing up there with Ruud van Nistelrooy, a player whom I loved watching when I was a kid, and Mohamed Salah, whom I've been trying to emulate his best as a rival. I always do my best to help the team, but it doesn't matter who scores the big goal. At the end of the day, all that matters is that we win matches. Anyone can be a hero.
Des Kelly: A wonderful moment. When you look back, you lost your passion for the game, you had to find that passion again as a teenager, you went to a high school that was not exactly known to have the best football program, and you had to train by playing beach soccer and learn know how to think differently. And now this Champions League is the reward for everything, isn't it?
Kakeru: (Laughs) Yeah, that's pretty much it. That was not always easy. There were ups and downs in my life, but going to that high school so I could learn how to look for higher goals was the best decision in my life. I really want to say "thank you" to my family, my friends, my coaches, and anyone who has been a positive influence to me since high school.
Des Kelly: Thank you very much, Kakeru. Nana, come on in.
Then Kakeru made way for Nana to answer the reporter's questions.
Des Kelly: Congratulations.
Nana: Thank you.
Des Kelly: First woman to break the gender barrier, first woman to win the Premier League, first woman to win the FA Cup against men, and now first woman to win the big one – the Champions League. Tell me what it means to you.
Nana: It's incredible! Words can barely describe how I feel right now with the accomplishment. It's important to break barriers, but it's even more important to have teammates accepting me for who I am. I really feel blessed for having such teammates. And to win the Champions League with this team and in front of family and friends... it's beyond my wildest dreams.
Des Kelly: Speaking of your family, you received a call with the news that your mother woke up at the end of the second leg of the semi-final against Bayern Munich. That was shortly after our post-match interview. How much does it mean for you that she is here to see you coming victorious tonight?
Nana: I was always hoping that she could see me in person and then we would enjoy this great moment together. A few weeks ago, I thought it would never be possible because of the accident. But she recovered enough to travel here and to see this moment. She always knew that I had the skill and the mentality to succeed against boys and then against men. I will always be thankful to her for supporting me since I was a child. My mother is a part of this victory as much as any parent. For any set of parents with a child aspiring to become a footballer, it is a long, long journey that takes a lot of efforts and sacrifices. And this is the reward.
Des Kelly: Yeah, you have quite a summer ahead of you. Kakeru as well.
Nana: I know. Obviously... To start off as strikers playing as a duo in elementary school, meeting again in middle school, going to high school together, training together, pushing each other's back. and then sharing our lives as partners both on and off the pitch, it has been quite a journey for Kakeru and I. After everything we just won together, we couldn't ask for better before this summer.
Des Kelly: Absolutely right. I'll let both of you enjoy the moment, cheers.
Kakeru and Nana: Thank you very much.
After the interview, Des Kelly went on to interview other Manchester United players and, of course, the manager. Journalists from other nations were interviewing some of the players who did their respective countries proud as European Cup winners. Then Kakeru and Nana recognized a familiar figure from their days at Enoshima High School.
"Nana-chan! Aizawa-kun!" a female voice called over in Japanese.
"I don't believe it!" Kakeru exclaimed.
"That's Momoko-chan!" Nana added.
"Congratulations to both of you!" Momoko said.
"Thanks!" Kakeru replied.
Then Kakeru and Nana gave Momoko a friendly hug. Momoko Fukushima was the color commentator for Enoshima High School in matches of the soccer club when Kakeru and Nana were there. Over the years, Momoko became a reporter for the Japanese broadcaster in charge of covering the UEFA Champions League. In the context that there were Japanese players on both sides, Momoko was dispatched to be conducting interviews with them on the pitch and after the final.
"So are you here to interview us, Momoko-chan?" Nana asked.
"That's part of the job, but we can also do it after you receive your medals. I was thinking about gathering both of you and Saeki-san in front of the camera for the interview." Momoko replied.
"I say we pick up the medals and lift the trophy first." Kakeru said.
"That would be good to me with the medals around our necks too." Nana added.
"All good then. By the way, where is Saeki-san?" Momoko asked.
"He went back to the dressing room to fetch a few flags for us." Kakeru replied.
"There he is now." Nana added.
Yusuke came back from the dressing room with 3 Japanese flags that he took with him in the eventuality that he and his friends would win the Champions League final.
"I've got the flags!" Yusuke said.
"Thanks." Kakeru replied before Yusuke gave 2 flags for Kakeru and Nana.
"Who is this lady?" Yusuke asked.
"Momoko-chan, this is Yusuke Saeki. Yusuke, this is Momoko Fukushima. She used to be a commentator of our matches at Enoshima. She will interview us for the Japanese live broadcast." Kakeru made the introductions.
"Nice to meet you." Yusuke said.
"Same for me." Momoko replied while giving Yusuke a handshake.
"Momoko-chan will do the interview with us after we lift the trophy." Nana said while wrapping the Japanese flag around her waist.
"With medals around our necks, we will look better on Japanese television." Kakeru added as he wrapped the Japanese flag around his shoulders.
"Let's do it like you say." Momoko replied. "Before you receive your medals, I want you to see a few things. I scrolled through social media and then saw this from Enoshima High and Kamakura High."
"Let's have a look." Nana replied.
Then Momoko showed videos of 2 viewing parties on her smartphone. Both at Enoshima High and at Kamakura High, the crowd of students reacted with joy whenever Manchester United scored. The most recent videos posted online showed both parties celebrating as soon as the final whistle was blown.
"Wow! They have been having those viewing parties since... 4:00 AM in Japan, really?" Kakeru asked.
"Both schools were open for a solid hour before kickoff. They were not going to miss the opportunity to see members of their respective alma maters possibly become Champions League winners." Momoko replied.
"We will definitely say 'hi' to them in the interview, I promise." Nana said.
"Yeah, we owe them that." Kakeru finished.
For a few more minutes, the television broadcasts around the world showed more of the celebrations among the winners, game highlights, and even some of the players' families in the stands. Meanwhile, the stage was assembled and ready to hold the medal and trophy presentation just as the silversmith finished engraving the name of the winning team on the trophy. Players on the winning side were already lined up to form a guard of honor for those who will walk on the stage before them. Finally, after a little more than a dozen minutes following the final whistle, the ceremony was ready to proceed.
"Hey! It's David Beckham!" Kakeru said.
"Yeah, I know." Nana replied.
UEFA's chosen representative for Manchester United in the pre-match presentation – David Beckham held the freshly-engraved European Cup with the Manchester United-colored ribbons attached on both handles. To get Manchester United supporters in the mood, Beckham carried the European Cup above his shoulders on the way towards the pedestal. After putting the trophy on the pedestal, Beckham shook hands with a group of 6 VIPs that included UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin, the 2 chairmen of their respective finalist teams, and other members of the UEFA board. Then the Manchester United players were the lucky ones to shake hands with the iconic former number 7 at the club.
"Kakeru, congratulations. That last goal... man!" David Beckham said.
"Thanks. It's great to shake hands with you." Kakeru replied.
"From a Champions League winner to another, both for United."
"Yeah!"
"Congratulations, Nana. That was a really beautiful pass on the last goal, worthy of a true number 7. I heard that your name means number 7 in Japanese." David Beckham said to Nana.
"Well, Éric Cantona said that the number 7 would fit well on me. That's quite some pressure."
"It's a number that has history, but I know everything will be fine if you choose to wear it someday. Enjoy this moment."
"Thank you." Nana finished.
After David Beckham walked aside, the on-field referees and the VARs were the first to walk in single file between the 2 lines of applauding Manchester United players and towards the stage. Then the referees shook hands with all dignitaries before receiving their special medals from the M. Čeferin on the stage. The medals were the acknowledgment of the referees' contribution in the final.
After the referees left the stage, it was time for the losers to collect their medals. Under the applause of the Manchester United players, the Manchester United supporters, and the remaining PSG supporters in the stadium, the losing team was led by their head coach as they walked through the corridor of players in red and towards the stage. Nevertheless, the disappointment of receiving a medal without being able to touch the trophy was visible on the faces of all PSG players.
Now we get back to Clive Tyldesley as the ceremony continues.
Clive Tyldesley: So difficult to walk past the trophy. It has been the main motivation for anyone playing in this competition. It's there within reach, but you cannot touch it. Medals around your neck are silver, and there is just no consolation. Paris Saint-Germain have been mounting the first serious challenge in Europe after years of shortcomings and disappointments in the knockout stages. They have totally dominated French football since 2011, but the heartbreak of losing the Champions League final in what could be described as their own backyard is beyond any description.
Upon receiving their silver medals, everyone associated with Paris Saint-Germain F.C. except their chairman walked their way towards the exit tunnel. At the very same time, the musical selection in the stadium was changed to play the UEFA Champions League 2014 Final Theme in the speakers as the theme on which the winners would receive their medals.
'Here it comes.' Kakeru thought.
'The theme from the 2014 Champions League final in Lisbon. Great musical choice.' Nana thought.
Clive Tyldesley: On all corners of the Earth, you are never far away from a Manchester United fan. From Africa to the Americas to Japan to the Middle East, they will be celebrating this historical achievement tonight.
Led by their manager Andrew Butler, the group of 23 Manchester United players in the matchday squad walked forward to collect their medals under the loud cheers of their tens of thousands of supporters in the stadium. Gold for the winners and silver for the losers, the medal design was the same for all as one side bore the "starball" logo only while the other side bore the words UEFA Champions League and the smaller starball on top.
Clive Tyldesley: What a moment for Andrew Butler. He was given the monumental task of restoring Manchester United back to the top only a few years ago. His name will now join the likes Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson, who also won the European Cup for this club.
One by one, the winning players shook hands with each of the dignitaries before they received their gold medals from Aleksander Čeferin. Kakeru's turn finally came up.
Clive Tyldesley: Kakeru Aizawa scored 2 goals tonight. The man, whom Japan missed so dearly at the World Cup because of injury, has led his club to the Treble with 45 goals, making that total the most goals scored in all club competitions by a Premier League player for a single season. He had to carry the hopes and dreams of his late older brother Suguru Aizawa, gone too soon when the future looked bright for the latter. And Kakeru Aizawa has now officially become the first Asian-born player to play in the final and to receive a Champions League winner's medal on the same night.
"Congratulations. You made history in more ways than one tonight." Čeferin congratulated, the gold medal at hand.
"Thank you. I'm happy that I can make Asia proud right now." Kakeru replied, shaking hands with Čeferin.
"There you go. Enjoy!"
Aleksander Čeferin put the gold medal around Kakeru's neck to confirm the latter as a winner.
"Thank you." Kakeru said.
Following a few steps behind Kakeru was Nana.
Clive Tyldesley: Nana Mishima... talk about another milestone for the very first woman who broke the gender barrier in top-flight professional football a few years ago. She made her mark in more ways than one when her teammates needed her the most, especially in the last few weeks when all 3 trophies were on the line. This might be the last time that we will see the name Mishima on the back of her shirt as she is on her way to become Mrs. Nana Aizawa over the summer.
"Congratulations. This is an amazing accomplishment." Čeferin said.
"Thank you, sir." Nana replied.
After the handshake, Čeferin put the gold medal around Nana's neck.
"This moment will be worth sharing with so many young girls having big dreams out there. Enjoy!"
"I will. Thank you."
One by one, each of the winners walked down the stage to stand in front of an area specifically assembled for the moment when the trophy would be lifted. After the manager and 22 out of the 23 players received their gold medals, the last man stepping forward to receive his winner's medal was the Mancunian captain, Matthias Köhler.
Clive Tyldesley: Matthias Köhler had big shoes to fill with the departures of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidić when he was brought in during the summer of 2014, after winning the World Cup with Germany. Nevertheless, he has become the undisputed leader of this team on his own. Born in Germany and now a very proud Mancunian.
After the handshake, Čeferin put the medal around the winning captain's neck. In a number of cases, spare gold medals can still be left over on the tray without anyone to pick them up.
"Wow! It's just beautiful!" Matthias said.
"Come over for the big one." Čeferin replied.
Then Čeferin went towards the pedestal to finally hand the European Cup to the hands of the winning captain. The remaining crowd cheered began to cheer as the long-awaited moment was about to happen.
"There you go, Matthias. Congratulations! It's a fantastic achievement."
"Thank you. Thank you." Matthias finished.
With the European Cup now in Matthias' hands, the German-born captain in red waved to the crowd and urged them to make even more noise. Then all Manchester United players and their manager began to make the customary and drum roll-like "OOOOOHHH" sound as Matthias was arriving in front of them in the designated celebration area.
Clive Tyldesley: The European Cup is now going back to Old Trafford. Matthias Köhler lifts the trophy that crowns Manchester United... Kings of Europe!
Matthias lifted the European Cup high in the air, kicking off the celebrations for his team and sending the supporters in an explosion of cheers. Air-powered blasted confetti and ribbons in red-white-black high in the air. A few fireworks were also fired at a safe distance behind the players before more fireworks went off from the roof of the Stade de France itself to light the night sky. The players sang loud and proud as well.
CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEONES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!
The non-playing staff also joined the group to be part of the team photo as several accredited photographers immortalized the celebrations. After Matthias, a couple of players had their moment of lifting the European Cup. Meanwhile, Kakeru looked around before he spotted a very familiar figure appeared, virtually unseen by anyone else in the stands.
'Nii-chan (Big brother)!' Kakeru thought, recognizing his late older brother Suguru.
In the distance, Suguru's ghost looked at Kakeru with a smile. Suguru did not appear to say anything, but the non-verbal cues told the story for the younger of the two Aizawa brothers.
"Hey, Knight! Your turn!" Marius said.
The Dutch striker handed the European Cup to Kakeru. Before Kakeru would lift it, he took one last glance at Suguru in the crowd. Suguru's smile grew even bigger as he gave Kakeru a nod. Then Kakeru heard Suguru's voice speaking to him.
"You did very well. You did it all with your own skills and your trust into your teammates. Congratulations, Kakeru. Enjoy your moment." Suguru said.
"We won together, Nii-chan." Kakeru softly said to himself.
At last, Kakeru hoisted the European Cup above his shoulders as the crowd cheered the loudest for him. Although the trophy weighs 11 kilograms (24 pounds), it felt light as a feather to any player lifting it after countless efforts and sacrifices.
"YEEEEEEEEAAAAAH!!! LET'S GO!! LET'S GOOOOOOO!!!" Kakeru screamed his entire joy out before he planted a kiss on the trophy.
'He did it, Suguru-san. We all did it.' Nana thought, spotting Suguru's ghost in the crowd as well.
Then Kakeru turned towards Nana to hand her the trophy.
"There you go, Seven! It's yours too!" Kakeru said.
After Kakeru handed the trophy, Nana also kissed the ultimate prize before she hoisted it proudly in the air.
"WOOHOO!!! COME ON, BABY!! LET'S GOOOO!!!" Nana shouted.
After savoring the moment, Nana handed the trophy to another teammate. Then Kakeru and Nana checked towards Suguru for one last time. With the same smile still on his face, Suguru finally walked his way through a sea of cheering fans and towards the nearest bleacher before he finally disappeared. Then the sound of Queen's "We Are the Champions" was heard inside the stadium, with the crowd joining in when the famous chorus came.
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS, MY FRIENDSAND WE'LL KEEP ON FIGHTING 'TIL THE ENDWE ARE THE CHAMPIONSWE ARE THE CHAMPIONSNO TIME FOR LOSERS'CAUSE WE ARE THE CHAMPIONSOF THE WORLD.
At the same time, the players' loved ones and relatives arrived on the pitch with the official Manchester United party to share this very unique moment in a lifetime. Children ran to celebrate with their respective fathers as soon as they got on the pitch. Officially recognized as Yusuke's girlfriend by Manchester United officials assigned to escort families, Noriko ran towards Yusuke before she jumped into his welcoming arms.
"Noriko! Baby, we did it!" Yusuke said.
"I'm so proud of you!" Noriko replied.
Yusuke and Noriko continued to hold onto each tightly for a little longer, celebrating the moment before Yusuke's parents joined them. Meanwhile, Kakeru saw his own parents arriving to greet their son.
"I can't believe it! You did it, Kakeru!" Mamoru embraced his son.
"We did it together, Dad! We did it!" Kakeru replied.
Not long after the father-son embrace, Kakeru turned to greet his mother. Carrying Suguru's framed picture in her hands, Eiko was also overwhelmed by the sentiment of pride as she saw her son wearing the medal that confirms him as Champions League winner.
"I'm so proud of you, Kakeru! I'm so proud of you!" Eiko was crying tears of joy as well.
"It has been quite a journey, but we did it! I love you, Mom." Kakeru could not contain his tears either.
"I only wish Suguru could be somewhere here to see this moment. He would have been so proud too."
"I know, Mom. I know he is proud of the journey I've made."
After watching Kakeru and Yusuke reunited with their respective families, Nana looked around for her parents. Only seconds later, Nana saw her parents arriving on the pitch. Mrs. Mishima had help from her husband and from Kakeru's younger sister Mito to push the wheelchair on the grassy surface.
"MOM!" Nana exclaimed.
Nana quickly rushed to hug her mother, having waited a long time for this reunion.
"I'm so proud of you! That was a great pass you made on Kakeru's goal!" Mrs. Mishima said.
"I'm so happy to see you, Mom! Oh my God!" Nana replied.
"You're a Champion of Europe, Nana. It's incredible!"
"I know. Just knowing that you're able to see this achievement in person is beyond all of my wildest dreams." Nana replied.
"You really showed them how far a girl can go." Mrs. Mishima said.
"We are both proud of you." M. Mishima added.
Then the Mishimas savored the moment together a little longer. Meanwhile, Kakeru came to hug his younger sister Mito.
"You did it, Kake-nii! You did it!" Mito said.
"No, we all did it. All of this is because we all made efforts and sacrifices leading up to this moment." Kakeru replied.
"That's true. You and Nana-nee sure have the flair for the dramatic though."
"As always."
The 3 Japanese winners continued to enjoy the moment with their loved ones. However, Kakeru was the first to realize that Momoko was still left waiting to conduct her interview with him, Nana, and Yusuke as well. Of course, the parents excused them for the interview. Momoko was not displeased by having to wait a little longer at all, especially when her TV crew managed to record the emotional moment when the 3 players were reunited with their families. At last, everyone got ready for the live interview.
Momoko: Well, I'm here with Kakeru Aizawa, Nana Mishima, and Yusuke Saeki, all wearing our national flag on them. They are the first Japanese players to win the UEFA Champions League, and I was also told that they are also the first Asian players to actually play and win the Champions League final on the same night. Many congratulations!
Kakeru, Nana and Yusuke: Thank you very much.
Momoko: I'll start with Aizawa-san, scorer of 2 big goals – one that was beyond 90 minutes to tie the game and the other at the very end of extra time to win it. How does that feel to be now a Champions League winner?
Kakeru: I... I don't know what to say. This is unbelievable. To win the Champions League like this, I couldn't ask for a better story. The result speaks a lot about the character, the heart...everything. This team has everything. All the qualities you need in a winning team; we have all of them.
Momoko: After most of the first half, it didn't look like it was going to be your night. Can you explain what was going on and what was said at the break?
Kakeru: I think we probably gave PSG too much respect in the first half and we were being frustrated by Tono-san, who made some incredible saves for PSG. During the long break because of the storm, we had time to refocus and said to ourselves that we would give everything even if we had to lose. Playing under a heavy rain is something we have done so many times in training and in matches in Manchester. We were back in our world, I guess. 
Momoko: Sometimes we have strange stories about how things can quickly turn around. In the second half and all the way to the final whistle, you looked like a very different team. 
Kakeru: Yeah, all it took was an early goal in the second half. After that, we started to believe even more in ourselves. I think that PSG became nervous while we built up on the goal. We were getting better, we scored goals when we had to... and then we won. That's about it.
Momoko: Last one for you, Aizawa-san. Is there someone you want to dedicate this victory to?
Kakeru: We dedicate this to all of us, to our families supporting our efforts, and, of course, all of our fans. Still, I also have a special thought for my late brother. Although he left us too soon, I always feel that he is watching over all three of us. I know that he is proud of us for this achievement. Last but not least, I want to give a shout to the people watching at Enoshima High School and Kamakura High School. You woke up early for this, and we delivered it for you!
Needless to say, the viewing parties at both schools gave a loud round of cheers when Kakeru named them despite a distance of over 9,700 kilometers and an 8-hour difference separating them.
Momoko: All right. Thank you very much, Aizawa-san! Mishima-san, you have become the first woman to play against men in the Champions League final and to win it as well. What does it feel like for you now?
Nana: It still feels like a dream, really! It feels even better than I thought it would. So this is an incredible moment. With the way we did it, the adversity that we faced, and the great ending in extra time, you can't ask for a happier moment. For a little girl who lived the early years in Kamakura, I... I can't ask for better.
Momoko: Over the last month, so many things happened. Your mother had that accident, you came back to Japan, you came back to Manchester, you scored 2 big goals in the semi-final against Bayern Munich, your mother woke up from a coma as you were playing that game, and then you played a vital part in the last 3 games for your team even though you came off the bench in 2 of them. Take us through the emotions of the last month.
Nana: Oh, it's such a rollercoaster ride on emotions. Obviously, my mother was in a coma. I wasn't sure if I was emotionally ready to help my team. But then I came back and received so much support from my friends and teammates. From that moment forward, it was about doing everything it took to win. I was a little disappointed that I couldn't start the final, but Usain Bolt told me a few words that helped me to get over the disappointment. It was along the lines of "It's not how you begin a race that counts rather than how you finish it." And we gave the perfect finish in the end.
Momoko: This is not only a great moment for you; it is also a turning point for all young girls watching the final tonight. What would you like to say to them in one last comment?
Nana: Always believe in yourself and feed off the support from those who really want you to break barriers, to go higher, to become stronger, and to make the impossible possible. To my family, my friends, and everyone showing unwavering support, I love you all! That's it. And for anyone else who called me names, who said that I'm a liability, that I can't play as an equal with men, that I don't know anything, and that I should keep my mouth shut, you can kiss my ass! (Laughs)
Momoko: (Laughs) We apologize for the bit of language to the viewers at home, but you can understand the emotion. Congratulations, Mishima-san!
Nana: Thank you!
Momoko: Saeki-san, you were playing in the J-League just 12 months ago. Did you ever think that you would be here a year later with a Champions League winner's medal around your neck?
Yusuke: Oh, I still can't believe it! I don't think the feeling is sinking in yet. It just feels surreal to win it with this great group of players. This team that had a mission right from the beginning of training camp. To be here and having won 3 trophies on my first season in England, it's incredible.
Momoko: After the World Cup, you and your former club received several offers for a transfer in Europe. What was your reaction when Manchester United called in, especially when 2 of your best friends since middle school were already at the club?
Yusuke: Yeah, obviously, it was already an honor when Manchester United called in. The fact that Kakeru and Nana were already there helped in making my decision, but what really convinced me to join them was that they had a role where I could fit into the team. I didn't expect to become the regular defensive midfielder right away, but I just fit in as I began to establish myself. Then we won it all together.
Momoko: And when you think about your personal journey... I mean your first taste of Europe with the Borussia Dortmund academy didn't go as planned, you came back to Japan to build your career, you played for Japan in the World Cup, and now you have become a key member of this Manchester United team. What do you think about when you had to show so much resilience personally to get to this part?
Yusuke: Ah... You know, I never did things the easy way in my life. I had to endure hardships, take detours, and work harder before I got here. Nevertheless, I always believe that everything in life comes for a reason. I also have to thank my family and my friends for never letting me stop believing. And my teammates are just unbelievable. They have supported me ever since I signed to join them. This is so special... and it looks like Eiichiro Maruo and Natsu Takasaki are coming up.
Momoko: All right. I'll let you go because you'll be wanting to see everyone and enjoy the party. Thank you very much!
Almost gatecrashing the interview, Eiichiro and Natsu came in to greet the 3 Japanese players in red with hugs. Even as athletes from a different discipline, Eiichiro and Maruo are equally proud when their fellow Japanese succeed in other elite-level sports.
"That was one hell of a goal at the very end to win the final! Congratulations!" Eiichiro greeted Kakeru.
"And that pass by Nana-chan was just phenomenal too!" Natsu added.
"I had to rely on instinct and then hope that I would whip one past the goalie. I'm glad that it went in, but I always knew that Nana would find me somehow." Kakeru replied.
"I also knew that Kakeru would make the most of it whenever I make a pass to him. Mutual trust is what matters." Nana added.
"True." Natsu said.
"Saeki-san, you sure stepped up since the second half. Great job!" Eiichiro said to Yusuke.
"Yeah, Nana's arrival allowed me to focus only on Leonardo Silva. No one can stop fully nullify him, but I'm happy that I made life harder for him."
"That move to shake him off on your team's 3rd goal was something else though." Natsu said.
"Well, thanks." Yusuke replied.
"We were thinking of trying to see both of you play at the French Open, but we may get too wasted by partying and doing interviews in the next few days." Kakeru said.
"It's very understandable." Eiichiro replied.
"But if we can make up for it, we can attend Wimbledon in July." Nana said.
"That would be great for us too." Natsu replied.
"I agree. I always enjoy Wimbledon." Eiichiro added.
"All good then. Want to be pictured with the trophy and touch it, you two?" Kakeru asked.
"Really?" Natsu asked.
"Can we do that?" Eiichiro asked.
"Of course! You are VIP guests with Manchester United after all." Kakeru replied.
"We will have a number of photojournalists taking pictures, but my girlfriend will also be there to take photos for all of us." Yusuke added.
"Since it's a great moment for Japanese sports, let's share it altogether." Nana added.
"That's great!" Eiichiro said while Natsu nodded.
"Let's go then!" Kakeru finished.
Then Kakeru asked his teammates to have the European Cup for a moment before all 5 Japanese athletes posed with the trophy for the photojournalists. After that, the celebrations carried on for some time among players, their loved ones, and their friends.
Over a quarter of an hour later, the Manchester United players and the Manchester United staff finally walked their way back to the dressing room. The players' friends and loved ones were excused this time; it was going to be all about the members of the football club celebrating among themselves. Mentally and physically exhausted however, the players took a moment to sit down and let the feeling of being UEFA Champions League winners sink in a little more.
In that moment of cooling down, Kakeru went on to scroll down reactions on social media and text messages from his friends all over the world.
"Who wrote to you?" Nana asked.
"I've got messages from the Iwakis, most of the guys I played with at Enoshima, Hibino, a bunch of other Japanese athletes and former Manchester United players. And you?" Kakeru replied.
"Mostly the same. All of my Nadeshiko Japan teammates, some of my friends from my time in America, several female soccer players around the world, and even Keira Knigthley wrote to me as well. They are happy."
"Want to take a few selfies?" Kakeru asked.
"For sure." Nana replied.
Kakeru took the selfies of him embracing Nana, gold medals clearly visible around their necks before he shared the pictures in the replies to their friends and on social media. Then Nana put on swim goggles.
"You have your swim goggles ready?" Kakeru asked.
"Never taking chances anymore. I already learned the hard way that champagne stings the eyes a few years ago." Nana replied.
"Same for me."
Then Kakeru pulled his own swim goggles out of his own sports bag before he put them on, knowing fully well what was about to happen next in the celebrations.
"Hey, Yusuke. Do you have your goggles?" Nana asked.
"I knew I forgot something." Yusuke replied, a little red-faced.
"Well, your eyes better get ready for what's coming then." Kakeru said.
"I guess I will just endure. I'm the toughest of all three of us after all." Yusuke replied.
"I have a feeling that it will be a notch wilder than when we won the League or the FA Cup." Nana said.
"Bring it on then!" Yusuke replied.
"Some party animal you are. Not something one would expect from a man once called M. Serious." Kakeru finished with a laugh.
Moments later, the players gave a very loud cheer when Matthias was the last to enter the dressing room with the European Cup in his hands while Nikolaj turned the music on to kick-start the party. Bottles of champagne and beer were opened, champagne was getting sprayed everywhere, and the players were dancing all around the dressing room.
After an initial wave of celebrations, Andrew Butler came to give the season-closing speech to his players.
"Since the first day of training in preseason back in July, I've seen the maturity and the growth we've gained over the last few years to get to this point. I'm really impressed by all of you guys. When they ask me what is the strongest emotion I feel right now, it is pride. To see a group of this many players and the entire non-playing staff coming together, putting in all the work, and winning 3 major trophies, it's just incredible. I'm filled with pride for all of us, for our families, and for everyone who supported us in this journey. Enjoy this moment so you will remember it forever; you are now among the very few sharing the accomplishment of having won the Treble. Congratulations! Now let's drink and party, everyone!"
The players gave one very loud round of cheers before the party carried on into the night.
And so Kakeru, Nana, and Yusuke can finally enjoy the rewards at the end of a quest that went on for over 10 grueling months, a path that took them past teams that had their eyes on History, and a journey that they will remember forever. More than a decade after they were part of soccer as a club activity at Kamakura Middle School, the 3 Japanese friends have reached the summit of the professional game together on all 3 major fronts to become Treble winners. There is no real way to measure how much time and effort that the 3 friends had put to succeed in this odyssey. But now that it is over, this achievement, however personal, is one that they will get to share with their teammates, with their families, and, especially, with their city.
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