The Turning Point

Zachary lay on the grass, wincing as he massaged his shin where N'Golo Kanté's boot had caught him. The pain was sharp but manageable. It was more a result of the impact than any significant injury. As he sat up, Wilfried Zaha, Eric Bailly, and Franck Kessié were already by his side, their faces etched with worry.

"Are you alright?" Zaha asked, extending a hand to help him up.

Zachary smiled reassuringly. "I'll be fine," he said, grasping Zaha's hand and quickly rising to stand back on his feet.

"Watch out for Kanté," Zaha warned. "He's out to get you."

Zachary chuckled. "I will," he replied, turning his attention to the rest of the field. He immediately saw Salomon Kalou and Serey Dié arguing with the referee, their gestures animated.

"Calm down, guys," Zachary called out as he hurried over to them. "Don't play into their hands. Focus on our game."