NOVEL NEXT Chapter 169: Battles in Lisbon
The morning sun cast a golden hue over the quiet streets of Oudekerke, with the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. The owner of the small breakfast shop looked up from his counter as the sound of hurried footsteps echoed in the distance. A figure in a short-sleeved Ajax training kit emerged, dribbling a football effortlessly along the cobblestone street.
Recognizing the familiar face, the shop owner smiled and immediately prepared the usual order, placing it neatly on the counter.
"Boss, the usual, please," Yang Yang said with a cheerful grin, his face slightly flushed from the early morning exercise.
"You seem to be in a good mood today," the owner remarked, handing over the breakfast wrapped in crisp paper. His voice carried the warmth of someone who had grown fond of the young Ajax star.
Yang Yang chuckled, his energy contagious. "It's alright. Got a big week ahead."
"I've been following your advice, by the way," the shopkeeper added with a sly grin. "Cutting out those newspaper clippings these past few days, just waiting for them to gain value!"
Yang Yang laughed, shaking his head. "Don't worry, I won't let you down."
"Well then," the shop owner said, leaning on the counter, "make it count this week. Bring back another European trophy midweek, and then clinch the Dutch title and the Golden Boot this weekend!"
Yang Yang nodded, his grin widening. "I'll try my best. If all goes well, I'll finally get to taste that dish you've been bragging about!"
With a wave, Yang Yang jogged off, disappearing down the street, the football still under perfect control. The shop owner watched him go, a hint of admiration in his eyes.
"It's been a long time since Ajax had a player this electrifying," he muttered to himself, trying to recall who the last one was. But the name eluded him.
"What a magical kid!"
For weeks, the Dutch media had been abuzz with headlines predicting that Dirk Kuyt would comfortably claim the Eredivisie Golden Boot. The Feyenoord forward had been in sensational form all season, and many believed the race was over. Yet, against all odds, Yang Yang had clawed his way back into contention, stunning fans and pundits alike.
With just one round remaining in the Eredivisie, the leaderboard was now deadlocked: 31 goals apiece. The competition had reached a fever pitch, with the nation holding its breath to see who would emerge as the top scorer.
The dramatic turn of events began in the 33rd round. Kuyt, despite scoring twice, had played with a relaxed demeanor, as though convinced his lead was unassailable. Meanwhile, Yang Yang, ever the competitor, delivered a masterclass, netting four goals in Ajax's match. That single game had reshaped the narrative, transforming what seemed like a foregone conclusion into a nail-biting finish.
Now, the stakes could not be higher. The upcoming weekend would see Ajax host Groningen at the Amsterdam Arena. The Dutch Football Association would bring the Eredivisie trophy to the stadium, ready to present it unless PSV Eindhoven managed a miraculous comeback to snatch the title.
However, for Yang Yang, the challenge extended beyond domestic glory. Midweek, Ajax would travel over 2,000 kilometers to Lisbon for the UEFA Cup final. The grueling travel schedule, coupled with the high-intensity nature of two crucial matches in quick succession, raised concerns. Would Yang Yang's form and fitness hold up under the strain?
"Even the smallest misstep could throw everything off," one pundit cautioned on a morning sports program. "His body will be under immense pressure."
This uncertainty only heightened the anticipation. Fans, analysts, and even rival supporters couldn't resist the allure of the story unfolding: a young prodigy battling against the odds to rewrite history.
For Yang Yang, this wasn't just about winning a trophy or an individual accolade—it was about cementing a legacy. If he managed to outscore Kuyt in the final round, not only would he claim the Golden Boot, but he would also extend his record as the youngest player in Eredivisie history to score 30 goals in a single season.
Currently sitting at 31 goals, the possibility of pushing the record to 32, 33, or even 34 was tantalizing. Comparisons to the great Ronaldo Nazário, whose record had stood for over a decade, filled newspaper columns and TV debates. Some commentators speculated that Yang Yang's achievements might endure even longer.
"If he scores two or three more, this record might stand for twenty years," a journalist declared in De Telegraaf. "Perhaps even longer."
But for all the speculation, one truth remained: the final matchday promised to be one for the ages. Yang Yang versus Kuyt. Ajax versus Groningen. The Amsterdam Arena would be electric, its crowd ready to witness either triumph or heartbreak.
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Yang Yang paid no mind to the thoughts of the breakfast shop owner as he strolled back home with a spring in his step. Balancing the breakfast bag in one hand and clutching three freshly purchased Dutch newspapers in the other, his heart was brimming with satisfaction, his mind replaying the events of the previous night like a favorite song.
Upon returning home after his goal-scoring heroics, his first thought had been to thank Su Ye. She had been his steadfast supporter through the highs and lows of his journey, and her joy for his success was both genuine and infectious. That evening, she greeted him with a warm smile and a flood of heartfelt encouragement, her words and gestures embodying her pride in his achievements and her unwavering belief in his potential. It was her way of celebrating his triumphs while inspiring him to strive for even greater heights.
"You're doing amazing," she had said softly, handing him a bowl. Her eyes reflected pride and tenderness, a calming contrast to the storm of intensity on the pitch. "But don't stop now. Keep going."
Yang Yang, mindful of her grueling preparations for the upcoming college entrance examinations, insisted she head to bed early. Her success was just as important to him as his own, and he didn't want her health compromised for his sake. As she retired for the night, he felt a renewed sense of gratitude, not just for her presence but for her unwavering belief in him.
Later, in the quiet hours of the evening, he immersed himself in the Dream Training System, his secret weapon and sanctuary. To his surprise, Zax, his typically demanding and critical virtual mentor, offered rare words of praise.
"That was a strong performance," Zax remarked with a tone that bordered on approval. "Keep channeling that drive, and you'll achieve even more."
For Yang Yang, it was a moment of validation, albeit from a source as enigmatic as the system itself. It was as though the universe, which only recently had seemed intent on testing his resolve, was now aligning in his favor.
Just days ago, he'd felt crushed under the weight of expectations and setbacks, as if the entire world were conspiring against him. Yet now, with the tides turned, life felt impossibly beautiful. He was surrounded by people who cared deeply for him, each in their own way—whether it was Su Ye's quiet support, Zax's tough-love guidance, or even the breakfast shop owner's faith in his potential.
Yang Yang knew he couldn't afford to grow complacent. Their belief in him was a responsibility he carried proudly. He had to keep pushing forward, not just for himself but for everyone who stood by him, who cheered him on, and who reminded him that even in the darkest moments, he was never alone.
With these thoughts in mind, Yang Yang sat at his small dining table, sipping the last of Su Ye's chicken soup while flipping through the newspapers. Each headline seemed to scream his name, a testament to the whirlwind he had created in Dutch football. As he read, his determination grew, carving itself into an unshakable resolve.
He wouldn't let them down. Not Su Ye, not his teammates, not the fans, and certainly not himself.
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After breakfast, Yang Yang returned to De Toekomst, Ajax's training complex, as usual. The atmosphere was noticeably different today. From the moment he arrived, he could feel the attention of his teammates and staff. Conversations paused as he passed, and smiles followed him wherever he went.
This time, he didn't need to approach anyone first. Many of his teammates greeted him enthusiastically, congratulating him on his four-goal performance the previous night.
"Unbelievable game, Yang!" one teammate said with a grin.
"Keep it up," another added, slapping him on the back. "Don't let Kuyt take that Golden Boot!"
Yang Yang chuckled humbly, assuring them he would give it his all. Their encouragement, though casual, felt genuine and motivating.
Winston Bogarde, Ajax's assistant coach, observed Yang Yang carefully during the initial check-ins. Despite being satisfied with his physical condition, Bogarde adhered strictly to protocol. He reminded Yang Yang to undergo a medical check-up, as required every morning, before heading to the gym for his usual training routine. This was also under the instructions of Alessandro Schoenmaker, the club's new fitness coach.
Schoenmaker, a meticulous professional, placed great importance on data-driven performance management. He had implemented a comprehensive player monitoring system, tracking physical metrics throughout the season. Each Ajax player now had an individual database, allowing Schoenmaker and the coaching staff to monitor changes in their fitness levels and recovery rates.
The morning session focused on recovery, with light training designed to help players recuperate from the rigors of their recent matches. Afterward, the squad stayed at De Toekomst for a team lunch. The air was filled with chatter and laughter, but Yang Yang found a quiet moment to make an important call to Chen Tao.
Yang Yang informed his friend that Ajax would be leaving for Lisbon at noon to prepare for the UEFA Cup final. The match, scheduled for the night of May 18th, was just two days away. The 2,000-kilometer journey to Portugal was necessary to ensure the players could rest and acclimatize ahead of the game.
"I left the keys to my place with you, so feel free to use it," Yang Yang said over the phone. "Also, when I return tomorrow, you can join the official Ajax team for the trip to Lisbon. I've already cleared it with the club."
Chen Tao, who had been training with Dutch teams in recent weeks, expressed his deep gratitude. Over the past weeks, he had participated in trials with several clubs and received positive feedback. The trials had opened his eyes to the competitive level of Dutch football while showcasing his abilities to local scouts and coaches.
"You've set an example for all of us," Chen Tao said emotionally. "Clubs here are finally starting to take notice of Chinese players because of you. They never expected this level of performance from us."
Yang Yang's success in Europe had indeed raised the profile of Chinese players, particularly in the Netherlands. His emergence as a star had symbolized a breakthrough, and he fervently hoped that more of his compatriots would follow his path to Europe. "It's not about just me," Yang Yang thought to himself. "The more of us who succeed, the easier it becomes for others to come here and develop."
Chen Tao expressed his deep gratitude, his voice cracking with emotion. "I owe you everything, Yang Yang. Without you, none of this would have been possible. You've helped me with everything—from food and accommodation to arranging trials and even giving me this phone."
Yang Yang tried to lighten the mood. "Come on, don't get all sentimental on me," he said with a laugh. "Just focus on making your mark. You've got the talent. Use it."
"I will," Chen Tao promised. "And I'll see you in Lisbon. I'll be there to cheer for you in the final."
After hanging up, Yang Yang sat quietly, his emotions a mix of pride and longing. He knew how difficult it was for Chinese players to succeed abroad. The challenges extended far beyond the pitch—language barriers, cultural differences, unfamiliar food, and the sheer loneliness of being so far from home.
Chen Tao's journey was a testament to these hardships. Even as a trialist, he had faced an uphill battle, but Yang Yang admired his resilience. It reminded him of a saying by the writer Lu Xun: "There is no path in the world. Paths are made by walking them."
Chinese players had ventured into Europe before, but their journeys were often fraught with challenges and setbacks. Yang Yang hoped that with each new player who succeeded, the road would become less treacherous. Perhaps one day, this path would turn into a highway, allowing future generations of Chinese players to flourish in Europe with greater ease.
For now, though, Yang Yang's focus returned to his immediate goal: preparing for the UEFA Cup final and ensuring that Ajax's season ended with another trophy. With determination etched into his expression, he packed his bag, ready to join the team for their flight to Lisbon.
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Due to the large number of players, coaching staff, and logistics personnel involved, Ajax opted to charter a private flight directly to Lisbon. The atmosphere on board was a mix of focus and camaraderie, as everyone knew the significance of the upcoming UEFA Cup final against CSKA Moscow.
To maximize their time, head coach Ronald Koeman decided to hold a tactical preparation meeting mid-flight. As the plane cruised toward Portugal, the players and staff gathered in the spacious cabin, where the focus turned to the formidable Russian side they were about to face.
Ruud Krol began with an overview of their opponents. "The Russian Premier League operates differently from most European leagues. Their season runs from March to November, meaning they're already in the middle of their campaign. On top of that, the Russian Federation fully supports clubs competing in European tournaments. For this final, CSKA Moscow adjusted their domestic schedule. Since mid-April, they haven't played any league matches, dedicating all their energy to preparing for the UEFA Cup."
The room grew quiet as Krol's words sank in. The reality of the challenge ahead became clearer.
"That gives them nearly two extra weeks of preparation compared to us," Krol continued. "They've already been in Portugal for some time, acclimating and fine-tuning their strategy. This is something we must remain vigilant about. They're physically fresher and tactically focused."
For Russia, winning a European trophy would be a monumental achievement, one that symbolized their football's growth and ambition. In contrast, Ajax had been battling on multiple fronts, balancing the demands of the domestic league and cup competitions. Fatigue was an undeniable concern.
Ronald Koeman addressed the tactical adjustments Ajax needed to make. "The most dangerous player for CSKA is their Brazilian midfielder, Daniel Carvalho. At 22, he's been outstanding this season. He's technically gifted, quick, and capable of creating opportunities from nothing. Our midfield needs to neutralize him. Don't let him dictate the tempo."
Koeman's tone became sharper. "We've received reliable reports from our scouting team. CSKA Moscow has been working extensively on a man-to-man defensive system in midfield. They'll focus heavily on disrupting our ball circulation and breaking up our attacks. While we'll likely dominate possession, converting that into goals will be the real test."
As Koeman paused, the players exchanged glances, their resolve hardening. All eyes inevitably turned to Yang Yang, the team's brightest spark. Fresh off a stunning four-goal performance in the Eredivisie, the young forward had become the player Ajax relied on in moments like these. His teammates' unspoken expectation was clear: Yang Yang would need to deliver once again.
Noticing the weight of their stares, Yang Yang decided to lighten the mood. With a mischievous grin, he stretched his arms wide, letting out an exaggerated yawn. "Don't worry, coach. I'll make sure to sleep well on this flight so I'll be full of energy for the final. You can count on me!"
Laughter erupted across the cabin, breaking the tension. It was a well-known quirk of Yang Yang's—whether on a bus or a plane, he always managed to sleep as soon as he settled in.
Koeman chuckled, shaking his head. "Alright, fine. Go ahead and sleep. But remember, if you don't score in the final, there will be no escaping the consequences. We'll never let you hear the end of it."
The joke landed perfectly, and the cabin was filled with laughter once more. Koeman's attempt to lighten the atmosphere had worked. The players were relaxed but focused, ready to face the challenge ahead.
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When Ajax boarded their flight to Lisbon, CSKA Moscow had already settled comfortably in the city. The Russian club had spared no expense, booking an entire hotel exclusively for their team and operations. Alongside the players and coaching staff, the hotel also housed 2,000 specially invited fans, whose presence was funded and orchestrated by the club's wealthy backers.
Among the notable attendees was Roman Abramovich, the Chelsea owner, whose connections to CSKA Moscow were well-known throughout Europe. His involvement added an extra layer of intrigue to the final, reinforcing the perception of Russian football's growing ambitions on the continental stage.
Upon arrival, CSKA Moscow's head coach, Valeriy Gazzaev, wasted no time gathering his team for a meeting. At 51 years old, Gazzaev was already a prominent figure in Russian football, having managed top clubs like Dynamo Moscow and Spartak Moscow, as well as the national youth team. His return to CSKA Moscow in 2004 marked the beginning of a new era, and within a year, he had led the team to the UEFA Cup final—a monumental achievement for Russian football.
The anticipation for this match extended far beyond the club. From President Vladimir Putin to the average Russian football fan, the country's eyes were fixed on Lisbon. A victory would not only secure a European trophy but also mark a defining moment in Russia's footballing history.
However, Gazzaev was acutely aware of the challenge ahead. Their opponents, Ajax, were the reigning Champions League winners—a storied club with a reputation for punching above their weight, even in difficult circumstances. Despite selling five key players and facing domestic struggles, Ajax remained a European powerhouse. Gazzaev knew there was no room for complacency.
"The biggest advantage we have in this game is our physical fitness," Gazzaev began, addressing his players with a composed but firm tone. The room was silent, the gravity of the occasion clear.
"As Champions League winners, Ajax have had an incredibly demanding season. They've been battling on multiple fronts, and only yesterday did they manage to leapfrog PSV Eindhoven in the Eredivisie standings. To do so, they had to fight hard, expending significant energy."
He gestured toward the players, making sure they absorbed his point. "They've had no time to recover properly. After that hard-fought league match, they've flown over 2,000 kilometers to be here. On top of that, the climate here in Lisbon is vastly different from Amsterdam. These factors will take their toll on their physical condition."
The players nodded in agreement, recognizing the tactical opportunity that lay before them. Gazzaev's analysis of Ajax's situation painted a clear picture: their opponents would arrive in Lisbon drained and vulnerable.
"The first 45 minutes will be crucial," Gazzaev continued, his voice rising slightly for emphasis. "Ajax will come out aggressively. They know their physical disadvantage, so they'll try to break us early and gain control of the game. They'll throw everything they have at us in the first half to score."
His gaze swept across the room, meeting each player's eyes. "This is where we must hold firm. Stay disciplined. Stick to our defensive structure and let their energy drain. They'll press hard, but if we stay composed, the second half will be ours."
The strategy was clear: withstand the initial onslaught and exploit Ajax's inevitable fatigue. Gazzaev's meticulous preparation, combined with CSKA's fresher legs and early acclimatization to Lisbon, gave them a real shot at victory.
As head coach, Valeriy Gazzaev was well aware of the challenges CSKA Moscow faced. Despite their meticulous preparation and physical advantage, Ajax's overall strength and pedigree gave them the edge. The task ahead was daunting, and Gazzaev knew it would require perfect execution of their plan to stand a chance against the Dutch giants.
"Our primary objective in the first half is to defend," Gazzaev began, his tone firm and commanding. "We must focus on our defensive structure and deny Ajax any chance to score. If we can hold them off, the second half will be ours to exploit."
He paused, scanning the room to ensure his players understood the weight of his words. The strategy relied heavily on patience and discipline—qualities that could falter under the pressure of a final. Gazzaev continued, "In the second half, our physical advantage will give us the upper hand. That is when we strike. But only if we execute our defensive plan perfectly in the first half."
The players nodded in unison, but Gazzaev wasn't finished. He turned toward the large screen behind him, where a photograph appeared, and pointed to the image.
"There is one player we must focus on," he said, his voice taking on a sharper edge. "His name is Yang Yang."
The room grew noticeably tense. Every CSKA Moscow player recognized the face on the screen. The young Ajax forward had become a sensation across Europe, his meteoric rise making him a household name even in Russia.
"You all know him," Gazzaev continued. "Not long ago, he shattered Ronaldo's record as the youngest player to score 25 goals in a season. Just days ago, he broke another of Ronaldo's records, becoming the youngest player to score 30 goals in a season. And let's not forget—he scored four goals in his last Eredivisie match to tie Dirk Kuyt for the top scorer position."
The players exchanged uneasy glances. For many of them, Yang Yang's achievements were already the stuff of legend. His name was synonymous with the potential and unpredictability that made Ajax such a dangerous team.
"This is not just a domestic star we're dealing with," Gazzaev continued, driving his point home. "Last season, in the UEFA Champions League final, he scored the winning goal to bring Ajax the title. After that, he led the Chinese national team to their first-ever Asian Cup victory, defeating Japan and earning the tournament's Best Player award—the youngest in history."
Yang Yang's reputation had clearly preceded him, even among the Russians. As neighbors to China, they had long followed his exploits with curiosity. Now, he stood as the greatest threat to their UEFA Cup hopes.
"Yang Yang's form has been incredible," Gazzaev said, his voice growing more serious. "He's not just a forward; he's a phenomenon. His confidence grows with every match, and he has the ability to change a game single-handedly."
The coach paused, rapping his knuckles firmly on the podium. "Remember this: he is the most dangerous player Ajax has. Never underestimate him. Don't make the mistake of thinking he'll falter under pressure. He won't."
The players sat straighter, their attention fixed. Gazzaev's words left no room for complacency. They had been drilled extensively on how to handle Yang Yang in training, but this final reminder made the stakes clear.
"Technically, Yang Yang operates as a right-winger," Gazzaev explained, gesturing to the screen as tactical diagrams appeared. "But in reality, his positioning is fluid. He can pop up anywhere—in the middle, on the left, or even in areas you wouldn't expect. Wherever he is, he's a threat."
The players' faces hardened with determination as Gazzaev outlined their approach. "The moment he gets the ball, he must be restricted. Do not give him space to shoot, pass, or even turn. Mark him tightly, deny him service, and keep him out of dangerous areas. Do not lose focus—not for a second."
Gazzaev's instructions were clear, but he knew the psychological aspect of the match was just as important as the tactical one. He softened his tone as he moved to address the broader challenge.
"Let me remind you of something important," he said, pacing in front of the team. "This is not a match where the outcome is preordained. Ajax may have their history, but they are not the team they were last year. They sold five of their key players, and their strength has diminished since winning the Champions League."
He stopped and turned to face his players, his eyes sharp. "We, too, are not lambs to the slaughter. This is a final—a battle where anything can happen. It's not just about who is stronger; it's about who wants it more, who fights harder, and who keeps their composure."
Gazzaev's voice rose, filling the room with conviction. "The entire nation of Russia is watching us. From our fans in the stadium to those back home, they're all waiting for us to bring the trophy home. This is our chance to make history, to prove that we belong on the European stage."
The players erupted into applause, the energy in the room palpable. Gazzaev's words had struck a chord, instilling both pride and determination. They knew the challenge ahead was immense, but they were ready to give everything they had.
As the meeting concluded, the players filed out of the conference room with a renewed sense of purpose. Outside, the Lisbon sun shone brightly, but the shadow of Yang Yang and Ajax loomed large. For CSKA Moscow, this was more than a match—it was a fight for their place in history.
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For the giants of European football, the UEFA Cup often lacks the prestige of the Champions League. However, for clubs from leagues like the Portuguese Primeira Liga, the Dutch Eredivisie, and the Russian Premier League, the competition remains a significant opportunity to claim European silverware and elevate their international reputation.
The final between Ajax and CSKA Moscow had captivated fans in both the Netherlands and Russia. Estádio José Alvalade, home to Sporting Lisbon, with its capacity of over 52,000 seats, became the focal point of this continental clash. Tickets for the event had sold out well in advance, underlining the high stakes and anticipation surrounding the game.
Portugal itself had taken a keen interest in hosting the final. The Portuguese President, Prime Minister, and several high-ranking politicians were confirmed to attend, emphasizing the occasion's importance. From Russia, President Vladimir Putin sent a special envoy to represent his government, while the Dutch government also dispatched officials to show support for Ajax. The convergence of political figures underscored the broader significance of the match.
To ensure the safety of the event, Portugal deployed significant resources, stationing 600 police officers and 300 security personnel to maintain order. This comprehensive security effort reflected not only the size of the crowd but also the presence of numerous high-profile attendees.
On the day of the final, CSKA Moscow's financial clout was on full display. The club chartered five planes to transport more than 2,000 Russian VIP fans to Lisbon. Among them was Roman Abramovich, the billionaire owner of Chelsea, whose ties to Russian football were well-documented. The gathering of political and business elites added a layer of glamour and weight to the occasion.
Meanwhile, China had turned its attention to the final for entirely different reasons. With Yang Yang representing Ajax, the match held special significance for Chinese football. National broadcasters arranged a live telecast, and a dedicated media team was sent to Lisbon to cover the game. Their focus wasn't just on the match itself but also on Yang Yang's performance, which had become a source of immense national pride.
Chinese fans back home eagerly awaited updates, with interest extending far beyond the game. After the UEFA Cup final, the media team planned to accompany Ajax back to Amsterdam to cover the decisive Eredivisie match that weekend. Yang Yang's success wasn't seen merely as a personal achievement but as a milestone for Chinese football, representing the nation's aspirations on the international stage.
For Portugal, the Netherlands, Russia, and China, this final was far more than a football match. It had become a crossroads of culture, politics, and sport, with millions watching intently to see how the drama would unfold on the pitch. The weight of expectation hung heavy, not just on the players but on the significance each country attached to the result.
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CSKA Moscow took to the pitch in their traditional red shirts and black shorts, setting up in a disciplined 3-5-2 formation. In goal was the talented young Igor Akinfeev, already showing the promise that would define his career. The backline featured the Berezutskiy brothers, Aleksei and Vasili, playing as the left and right center-halves, while Sergei Ignashevich marshaled the center of defense.
The midfield was packed with energy and creativity. On the flanks, Yuriy Zhirkov and Chidi Odiah provided width and defensive support. Elvir Rahimić anchored the center of midfield alongside Evgeniy Aldonin, tasked with breaking up Ajax's play, while Brazilian playmaker Daniel Carvalho operated in a more advanced role, tasked with linking midfield to attack.
Up front, CSKA Moscow's strike duo was as dangerous as it was diverse. Brazilian forward Vágner Love, known for his flair and clinical finishing, partnered the hard-working and versatile Croatian striker Ivica Olić. Together, they formed a pairing that combined technical skill with relentless energy.
Ajax, meanwhile, fielded their strongest available lineup in this high-stakes final. Veteran goalkeeper Hans Vonk took his place between the posts, commanding a backline that consisted of the ever-reliable Maxwell at left-back, Maicon on the right, and a central partnership of Thomas Vermaelen and Johnny Heitinga.
In midfield, Ronald Koeman opted for a double-pivot of Tomáš Galásek and Nigel de Jong, aiming to neutralize Daniel Carvalho's influence and provide defensive stability. Wesley Sneijder played in an advanced midfield role, orchestrating attacks with his vision and creativity.
The forward trident consisted of Yang Yang on the right wing, Steven Pienaar on the left, and Angelos Charisteas as the central striker. Yang Yang, operating in his natural role as a right-winger, was Ajax's most dangerous player. Coming off a sensational domestic season, he was the focal point of the team's attack and the player CSKA Moscow most feared. His ability to cut inside, deliver pinpoint crosses, or unleash lethal shots from the flank made him a constant threat.
Ronald Koeman's tactical setup reflected his respect for CSKA Moscow's counterattacking threat, particularly the danger posed by Daniel Carvalho. By deploying Galásek and De Jong as a shield in front of the defense, he aimed to stifle Carvalho's creativity and deny him space. However, Koeman was also aware of CSKA's vulnerability on the flanks, where Ajax's full-backs and wingers could exploit gaps in the three-man backline.
The referee for the match, Graham Poll of England, brought a wealth of experience to the occasion. As the teams lined up in the tunnel, Poll took the opportunity to address the players, emphasizing his hope for a smooth, enjoyable match free of unnecessary aggression.
In the tunnel, familiar faces exchanged greetings. Maxwell and Maicon, representing Ajax, chatted animatedly with their fellow Brazilians, Daniel Carvalho and Vágner Love, on the CSKA Moscow side. The conversation, conducted in rapid Portuguese, drew smiles and laughter from the players involved, though its exact content remained a mystery to most.
Yang Yang, standing at the end of the Ajax lineup, observed the scene with quiet focus. While he had picked up a few words of Portuguese from his Brazilian teammates, he paid little attention to their pre-match banter. Instead, he turned inward, centering himself and preparing mentally for the challenge ahead.
He knew the weight of expectation resting on his shoulders. Ronald Koeman's instructions were clear: Ajax needed to assert their dominance early and decide the match in the first half. With CSKA Moscow's superior fitness likely to tip the scales in the second half, there was no time to waste.
As the players stepped out onto the pristine turf of the Estádio José Alvalade, the roar of over 52,000 fans echoed through the stadium. The bright lights, the electric atmosphere, and the stakes of the UEFA Cup final heightened the tension. For Yang Yang, this was another chance to prove himself on Europe's biggest stage. He took a deep breath, his mind sharpening as the game prepared to begin.