Chapter 14: VS Itabuna
'FIRST HALF'
The match between Vitória and Itabuna began with intense energy, capturing the atmosphere of a championship debut. Both teams were determined to put on a show, and within the first few minutes, it was clear it would be a tough, hard-fought game with both sides giving their all. Positioned firmly in defense, Cleiton felt something different as the minutes went by. The presence of his "Defensive Leadership Aura" skill seemed to activate, and he noticed how the players around him, especially Ricardo Rocha, Dieguinho, and Cássio, were more alert, communicating better, and reacting more quickly to Itabuna's advances.
The first half continued at a high pace, with both teams pushing forward while the defenses worked overtime. Cleiton, carefully positioned in the defensive line, felt the weight of every play and every contest as Itabuna maintained pressure. Tiaguinho, the opponent's captain and the creative force behind their plays, was having an inspired day, setting the rhythm and making through passes that constantly tested Vitória's defensive line.
In the 17th minute, Tiaguinho, with a keen eye, found an opening and launched a precise pass to striker Jhonny, who charged toward the box. Recognizing the responsibility, Cleiton activated his Diamond-Ranked "Protection Belt." He felt a surge of resilience course through his body, focusing intently on Jhonny as he prepared for contact.
Jhonny attempted to use physical force to break free and create space for a shot, but with 60% increased resistance, Cleiton held his position firmly. In a swift move, he protected the ball with his body, maintaining balance as Jhonny pushed and tried to unsettle him. Cleiton kept control and, at the moment Jhonny tried to steal the ball, skillfully spun, clearing the play and passing to Gabriel Costa in midfield. The crowd responded with applause at Cleiton's command over the situation, showing a renewed confidence and proving he was there to protect the area at all costs.
The game remained intense. Tiaguinho, searching for new ways to breach the defense, dribbled skillfully and explored tactical variations, trying to open up space along the left flank. But Vitória's defense, coordinated by Cleiton, was solid, and the "Defensive Leadership Aura" seemed to function as invisible encouragement, with Ricardo Rocha and Cássio moving in sync, anticipating each step from Itabuna's forwards.
In the 26th minute, Itabuna had another dangerous chance. Tiaguinho managed to dribble past Kayque Silva and advanced to the top of the box, this time not hesitating to take a powerful shot from outside the area. Positioned strategically, Cleiton jumped in front and blocked the shot with his body, feeling the ball ricochet to the side. Without losing a beat, he signaled for the defensive line to quickly reorganize, demonstrating a leadership stance that inspired his teammates to hold firm at every moment.
In the 34th minute, Vitória's shining moment arrived. Claudio Sousa, with his sharp vision, saw an opportunity as Rodrigo advanced down the right. He delivered a perfect through ball between the opposing defenders, dismantling Itabuna's defense. Rodrigo, impressively calm, controlled the ball and, face-to-face with the goalkeeper, struck with precision, scoring Vitória's first goal. A roar of "goal" echoed throughout the stadium as the fans went wild.
Celebrating with his teammates, Cleiton knew this goal was more than just a lead; it was a sign that, despite Itabuna's relentless challenges, Vitória was there to win. With the lead secured, Cleiton and the defense were ready to hold their ground until the end of the first half, aware that there was still plenty of game left.
The rest of the first half was uneventful, and soon the referee blew the whistle for halftime.
'HALFTIME'
In the locker room, the Vitória players settled in, breathing deeply as they caught their breath after an intense first half. Cleiton sat next to Nathan, who was wiping sweat from his face, and looked toward Coach Cerqueira, waiting for the instructions to come. The coach quickly took his place at the center of the group, wearing an expression of approval mixed with a hint of demand.
"Great defensive work, everyone. I want to congratulate you on the solidity back there, especially Cleiton and Ricardo," he began, giving a nod to the center-backs.
"We're organized, and you're communicating well, but there's still room for improvement."
Cerqueira then turned his attention to the team's fullbacks.
"Cássio, Dieguinho, I need you both to be more involved in the attack. The defense is solid, which gives us the freedom to push up the flanks. I want to see you supporting the wingers, especially on counterattack opportunities."
Cássio nodded, already envisioning the plays he could create, while Dieguinho listened closely, understanding the need for stronger offensive support. Cerqueira then directed his gaze toward the two wingers, Rodrigo and Pedrinho, with a more serious expression.
"Rodrigo, Pedrinho, you're holding back too much and leaving Nathan isolated up front. Your movement needs to be more intense, and you have to get open to provide options. If you don't get more involved in the attack, we'll keep struggling to create opportunities."
Rodrigo and Pedrinho exchanged glances, realizing they needed to be more active and give Nathan the support he needed, as he was already having a hard time holding the ball alone against Itabuna's defenders. Seeing that everyone was taking in the instructions, the coach gave a few final directions.
"Let's stay focused and concentrated. We have the lead, but a one-goal difference doesn't guarantee anything. I want you to move more in the midfield, create spaces, and remember: be quick on the transitions."
After delivering his instructions, Cerqueira signaled for the players to use the remainder of the break to hydrate and rest. Cleiton grabbed a bottle of water and took a sip, feeling motivated and confident. He knew the second half would bring more challenges, but he was ready to apply everything he had learned so far.
'SECOND HALF'
The second half began with Itabuna adopting a more aggressive stance, determined to even the score. Vitória, aware of the need to maintain defensive solidity, quickly adjusted to contain the opponent's momentum. Cleiton, positioning himself with precision, took on an even more critical role, organizing the defense and helping his teammates stay focused.
In the 10th minute, Itabuna's captain, Tiaguinho, moved up the middle, skillfully dribbling past two Vitória players and setting up for a through ball. However, Cleiton, using his "Defensive Leadership Aura" skill, coordinated the defensive line, directing Ricardo and Cássio to cover the open spaces. Communication was almost intuitive, and the defenders responded instantly to Cleiton's command. When the pass was made, Cleiton was in the right place to intercept it, dismantling the attack with a precise touch.
As time passed, Coach Cerqueira decided to make a few substitutions to bring fresh energy to the team. In the 25th minute, he brought in William (19) for Pedrinho (7), reinforcing the left side of the attack. Robson (14) replaced Dieguinho (6), with clear instructions to support the attack whenever possible. The changes brought new life to Vitória, who began to move more dynamically, creating more counter-attacking opportunities.
At the 30-minute mark, Itabuna made its own substitutions, seeking alternatives to tie the game. However, Vitória's defense remained solid, with Cleiton and Ricardo standing firm against the opposition's attempts to break through.
Cleiton, taking advantage of the "Protection Belt" skill, made a crucial play in the 33rd minute. An Itabuna forward, known for his physical strength, approached to contest an aerial ball in the box. Cleiton held his ground, and as he absorbed the impact from the opponent, he barely felt it. With the extra resistance from the belt, he kept his balance, controlled the ball precisely, and cleared it back upfield, ensuring that Itabuna couldn't create a dangerous opportunity.
In the 38th minute, Cerqueira made his final substitution, putting Marlon Kaio (4) in for Ricardo Rocha (3), who was showing signs of fatigue. With substitutions complete, Vitória focused on maintaining their structure and seeking a second goal.
In the 41st minute, the golden opportunity finally appeared. Cássio, who had been following Cerqueira's instructions to support the attack more, received the ball on the right flank and accelerated, bypassing the defense and reaching the end line. Feeling the activation of the "Crossing Precision" skill, he spotted Nathan positioned in the box, ready to receive.
With a calculated movement, Cássio made a perfect cross, the ball traveling with pinpoint accuracy to Nathan's head. Nathan, feeling his "Aerial Ability" enhance his leap and accuracy, jumped at the precise moment. His header was firm and directed, sending the ball to the back of the net and extending Vitória's lead to 2-0.
The crowd erupted in celebration as the Vitória players surrounded Nathan and Cássio, celebrating the collective effort that had culminated in that goal. Itabuna, despite all its attempts to fight back, saw its hopes for a draw virtually vanish.
With the score at 2-0, Vitória maintained control in the final minutes, managing the time and ensuring the opponent had no further chances. The team's defensive solidity and determination were the game's highlights, with each player playing their part with dedication.
The final whistle confirmed Vitória's 2-0 victory.
After the whistle, Vitória's players exploded in celebration. Cleiton, Nathan, Cássio, and the rest of the team embraced, laughing and celebrating the solid 2-0 win over Itabuna. A sense of accomplishment was clear on each player's face, exuding relief and joy for the excellent start to the championship.
Once the initial excitement calmed, Coach Cerqueira gathered the team and shared the results of the games that had taken place simultaneously.
- Bahia de Feira 1 x 1 Jacuipense
- Vitória da Conquista 2 x 1 Fluminense de Feira
- Barcelona de Ilhéus 4 x 2 Galícia
With the results in hand, Cerqueira organized the team and technical staff for lunch in the stadium's dining hall. The atmosphere was relaxed as they recharged their energy. During the meal, conversation revolved around expectations for the championship, the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, and their upcoming match against Bahia.
After lunch, Cerqueira announced the afternoon schedule:
- Jequié vs. Probahia (north field)
- Juazeirense vs. Serra Preta (south field)
- Bahia vs. Zebrão (east field)
- Jacobina vs. Atlético de Alagoinhas (west field)
With a unanimous decision, the Vitória team and coaching staff opted to watch Bahia's game, their next opponent and one of the favorites for the title. Everyone wanted to closely observe the team known for its high technical level and intensity on the field.
On the east field, Vitória's players settled into the stands, attentively watching Bahia in action. Bahia dominated the match from the start, and the team's superiority was soon reflected on the scoreboard. Victor Hugo, a tall and strong forward, showed why he was one of the top prospects in the championship, scoring an impressive hat trick.
Two of Victor Hugo's goals came from assists by Jorge Pereira, Bahia's captain and left-winger, who dazzled the crowd with quick dribbles and highly skilled individual moves. Jorge not only led the attack with finesse but also motivated the team to stay organized and offensive. The match ended with a clear 3-0 victory for Bahia over Zebrão, and Vitória left the field fully aware of the challenge awaiting them.
As they descended the bleachers, Vitória's players felt a mix of nervousness and anticipation for their match against Bahia. Seeing the dominant performance of their upcoming opponent served as a reminder of the importance of intense preparation during the week. Before leaving, they learned the results of the other games:
- Jequié 2 x 2 Probahia
- Juazeirense 0 x 0 Serra Preta
- Jacobina 2 x 1 Atlético de Alagoinhas
The goalless draw between Juazeirense and Serra Preta had an exciting moment that Vitória's players managed to catch. In the final minutes, Juazeirense won a penalty, and Jorge Luciano, Serra Preta's goalkeeper, made a spectacular save, diving to the right spot. After the save, Jorge celebrated as if he had just scored a goal, jumping and even doing flips on the field, drawing laughter and applause from the stands.
As the games ended, the Vitória players headed home, mentally focused on the work ahead of them for the week. Meanwhile, the teams from other towns began boarding the buses that would take them back to their cities. For them, the following weekend would bring two challenging games, one on Saturday and another on Sunday, and the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and preparation.
The first round had ended, but the championship had only just begun.
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Author's Note:
I really tried hard to make the championship table work directly on Webnovel, but no matter what I did, it kept getting bugged with scattered information and misalignment.
The alternative I found was to create the table in Excel and post a picture of it in the chapter comments. So, don't forget to check there if you want to see the championship table—I'll update it every round and post it in the comments.
I also decided to post this table on my Patreon: patreon.com/00_SAM
P.S.: As usual, this note will not be included in the chapter's word count.
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