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f o u r t e e n

K e n a n s - p o v ::

The atmosphere was electric as the Turkish national team prepared to face Czechia. I can feel the energy coursing through my veins, the adrenaline sharpening my focus as I step onto the pitch. This is more than just a game, it's a battle for pride and glory, and Im determined to give it my all. Also, with this match we either can go to the next round of the euros, or not. The Czech team is strong, their attack relentless. The first half is a tense, grueling affair, with both teams pushing hard but neither finding the back of the net. I play aggressively,if I have to be honest. Maybe too aggressive. I am using my speed and agility to outmaneuver the Czech defenders. The crowds roars echo in my ears, driving me forward. It was no secret that the stadium was filled with mostly just Turkish people. Midway through, the tension breaks. In my fervor, I miscalculate a tackle. I lunge for the ball but catch the Czech forwards ankle instead. The referees whistle shrieks, cutting through the stadium noise. A yellow card is brandished in my direction, a stark warning to temper my aggression. Little fuc- I grit my teeth and nod, acknowledging the foul and the card.

Seconds later, in the heat of the game, I find myself in a similar situation. Another Czech player is breaking through the midfield, and driven by a mix of frustration and determination, I go in for the challenge. Not a good idea, Kenan. Not a good idea. This time, I am lucky. I send a silent prayer. I catch the player, but the referee chooses to let it go, perhaps deciding it's not worthy of another car, since he didn't saw it happening. The crowds yelling reflects their mixed reactions, but I push the thoughts aside and focus on the game.

Im on the bench now, along with my friend, Arda. With the clock winding down, we push harder. And luckily our persistence pays off. A clever through ball splits the Czech defense, and Cenk Tosun slots it past the keeper. We lead 2-1. The roar of the crowd is deafening. We just need to hold on.

The final whistle blows, and we have done it. A hard fought 2-1 victory that keeps our tournament hopes alive. We made it to the next round. The stadium erupts into a loud cheer, all the Turkish fans around us making us feel at home. We all run onto the field, celebrating with the fans around us.
After a while of celebrating, we start to leave the field. My mind is already shifting to recovery and preparation for the next match. I jog towards the tunnel, the adrenaline still pulsing through me, when I hear a voice cut through the din of the dispersing crowd.

"Kenan!" I freeze, turning towards the source of the voice. I could recognize this voice anywhere and anytime. It's unmistakable, yet completely unexpected. Mine is there, standing in the stands, her face lit up with a mixture of excitement and relief. She waves, and for a moment, I can't believe my eyes. Without a second thought, I sprint towards the barrier. I leap over it effortlessly and reach her side. In one swift motion, I scoop her up into my arms and spin around, the weight of the game and the tension evaporating in that joyous moment. Her laughter fills my ear, and I can't help but join in, my heart feeling lighter than it has in weeks. "Mine, what are you doing here? How-" I call out, still holding her tightly. God, the jersey I gave her a while ago, looked absolutely gorgeous on her. "I took a flight to Germany, for a day off." My girlfriend replies, her voice filled with warmth. "I couldn't miss this match. And definitely not how you almost got a red card for fouling players of the opposite team!"

I feel a rush of emotions. The frustration and tension of the match melt away, replaced by a deep sense of gratitude and joy. I set her down gently, my hands on her shoulders now. "I can't believe you are here." I say, shaking my head in disbelief. "Thank you."

Mine smiles, her eyes sparkling. "I wouldn't have missed it for anything. You played great...if we do not count the fouls." She jokes, the most beautiful smile on her face as she lets out the words. Despite the physical toll of the match, I feel an overwhelming sense of victory in that moment. She really came all the way just to watch me. I never thought I would love her even more. With Mine supporting me, I know the next match will be even better.