The scorching Texas sun beat down upon the expansive football stadium, casting a fiery glow across the vibrant green pitch.
Valeria, rather than being in the private booth this time, was now sat alongside the other medical staff as well as the head coach, Carlo Ancelotti.
The sound of a raucous crowd filled the air as fans from around the world gathered in anticipation for the highly-anticipated preseason match between two legendary football clubs, Real Madrid and Manchester United.
She grew up following both teams, but Madrid was always her soft spot.
As the fans roared with excitement, the players then emerged from the tunnel in two seperate lines, eyes focused and determination etched across their faces.
The vibrant white kits of Real Madrid gleamed under the floodlights, proudly displaying the iconic crest. In contrast, the unmistakable red jerseys of Manchester United, emblazoned with the emblem of the Red Devils, radiated a sense of fierce determination.
The captains, Luka Modric and Bruno Fernandes, led their respective teams onto the field to thunderous applause.
The players had proceeded to line themselves up to shake hands, exchanging glances which eere filled with respect and competitiveness, knowing well that this clash between two football powerhouses with immense history and talent would test their skills to the fullest.
Upon shaking hands, each side hurriedly got to their positions and had a quick stretch.
Moments later, the referee blew his whistle, signaling the start of the match. The ball rolled towards the center of the field, and the first half commenced.
From the very first minute, both teams showed their intent to dominate the game. The midfield became a battleground as players fought tooth and nail to gain control of the ball. Luka Modric, Real Madrid's midfield maestro, showcased his exceptional vision and passing abilities, consistently piercing through Manchester United's defensive lines with razor-sharp accuracy.
On the opposing side, Bruno Fernandes, the Portuguese playmaker for Manchester United, displayed his creative prowess, creating space and relentlessly driving his team forward.
In the 4th minute, Fernandes received a perfectly weighted pass from Casemiro, quickly shifting the momentum in Manchester United's favor. As he dribbled towards the penalty area, the Real Madrid defense frantically tried to close him down.
Showing incredible composure under pressure, Fernandes cleverly laid the ball off to Marcus Rashford, who powered a shot towards the goal.
However, Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid's towering goalkeeper, stretched his body to the limit and made an acrobatic diving save, denying Manchester United an early lead.
Real Madrid swiftly responded, with their attacking trio consisting of Jude, Viní, and Rodrygo seamlessly interchanging positions, causing havoc in Manchester United's defense.
In the 6th minute, Jude Bellingham, the same rising star and player whose future is often speculated upon from before, made multiple smart moves as the Texas crowd erupted with surprise and excitement at the unexpected sight. Bellingham, known for his tenacity, composure, and eye for goal, became an immediate focal point for Real Madrid's attack.
A moment of brilliance unfolded. Luka Modric orchestrated a swift counter-attack, releasing a perfectly timed pass into the path of Jude Bellingham.
The pressure was on as Bellingham advanced towards the box, eyes fixed on the goal. With a calm demeanor, he skillfully dribbled past a Manchester United defender before unleashing an unstoppable chip shot over Onana ans into the bottom-left corner of the net, leaving Onana rooted to the spot. The crowd erupted with jubilation as Real Madrid took the lead.
