Episode 10 – The Debut Match

Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors: The Rising Star

Opening Scene – Years of Hard Work

The sun sets over Seoul, casting an orange glow on the FC Seoul training ground. A lean, athletic young man sprints down the left wing, effortlessly controlling the ball. His sharp eyes scan the field, anticipating his next move.

Seok Ji-Sun is no longer the small boy training in his backyard. At 16, he is now one of the youngest players in FC Seoul’s first team, playing as a Left Midfielder (LM). His dedication, relentless training, and natural talent have earned him a place among professionals.

As he finishes his final sprint, his coach, Park Hyun-Woo, claps his hands.

Coach Park: “Good work, Ji-Sun! You’ve been selected for tomorrow’s match. Get some rest, kid. Your debut awaits.”

Seok’s heart pounds. Tomorrow… I play for FC Seoul.

Flashback – The Journey to FC Seoul

Seok recalls the years that led him here. He trained tirelessly at Seoul Rising FC, overcoming injuries, doubts, and intense competition. His father, Jin-Ho, was always by his side, pushing him beyond his limits. His mother, Eun-Ji, balanced encouragement with reminders about school. His older brother, Min-Jae, who once dismissed football, became one of his biggest supporters, attending every match.

But none of it was easy. There were times when he wanted to quit, especially after a serious ankle injury at 14. However, his father’s words kept him going:

Jin-Ho: “Football isn’t about falling. It’s about getting up every time you do.”

Now, he’s finally here—one step away from proving himself.

Match Day – The Debut Begins

The Seoul World Cup Stadium is packed with 60,000 roaring fans. FC Seoul is up against Pohang Steelers, one of the toughest teams in the K-League.

Seok sits on the bench, nervously watching the game. FC Seoul is struggling, down 1-0 in the second half. At the 65th minute, Coach Park signals to him.

Coach Park: “Seok, warm up. You’re going in.”

His heart races. He jogs along the sideline, stretching, feeling the energy of the stadium. As he steps onto the pitch, he inhales deeply, tuning out the noise.

Seok’s Big Moment

In the 75th minute, Seok receives his first real opportunity. His teammate sends a long pass down the left wing. Seok sprints, controlling it perfectly.

A defender rushes at him, but Seok uses a quick step-over and cuts inside. He spots the striker, makes a precise cross, and—GOAL!

The crowd erupts! His teammates surround him, patting his back.

Commentator: “What a debut assist from the young sensation, Seok Ji-Sun!”

As the final whistle blows with the score tied 1-1, Seok looks up at the sky. His journey is far from over.

This is just the beginning.

Ending Scene – A Father’s Pride

After the match, Seok’s phone buzzes. A message from his father:

Jin-Ho: I’m proud of you, son. But this is just step one. Keep climbing.

Seok smiles. He knows his father is right.

Next time, he won’t just assist—he’ll score.

To be continued...

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