Echoes of Greatness: The Rise of a Global Football Sensation

In the corner area on the left side of CSKA Moscow's half, Yang Yang gently placed the ball on the turf. He stepped on the ground behind it, testing the firmness of the pitch, and then carefully took a few steps back, his gaze fixed ahead. 

In the penalty area, several of Ajax's key aerial threats had already stationed themselves, each positioned strategically. Players like Vermaelen, who excelled in headers, were prepared to exploit any opening. Meanwhile, CSKA Moscow's defenders were sticking close, engaging in subtle pushes and pulls, trying to disrupt their opponents' focus. The scene in the penalty box was tense, verging on chaotic. 

The stands of Estádio José Alvalade buzzed with nervous energy. Fans wore expressions of anticipation, their eyes glued to the action, as if willing the next move to unfold in their favor. 

It was only the seventh minute of the game, yet Ajax had already asserted their dominance, controlling both possession and the tempo. As expected, the Dutch team had been on the front foot since the first whistle, while CSKA Moscow had withdrawn into a deep defensive block, staying compact in their half and waiting for counterattacking opportunities. 

CSKA Moscow's three-center-back formation left their flanks vulnerable. This weakness had already been exploited by Ajax's dynamic wing play. Pienaar and Maxwell on the left, and Yang Yang and Maicon on the right, had caused headaches for the Moscow defense, repeatedly breaking down the sides. 

In just seven minutes, Ajax had forced three corner kicks. 

The first two, delivered by Sneijder—one from each side—had been well-defended. CSKA Moscow's defensive setup for set pieces was disciplined, and Ajax had failed to make any significant threat. Their opponents were clearly well-prepared for corners, and the lack of success so far was evident. 

For this third corner, Sneijder decided to switch things up. Instead of taking it himself, he signaled for Yang Yang to step forward and take the kick. 

Yang Yang was not a regular corner taker this season, not because of a lack of skill, but because of the tactical decisions of the coaching staff. His presence near the penalty area was considered more valuable, as his quick feet and keen positional awareness made him a constant threat. However, fans familiar with Ajax knew that when Yang Yang did take corners, they often yielded results. 

One player who had particularly benefited from Yang Yang's delivery was Vermaelen. The central defender had earned his starting spot this season, in part due to several goals created from Yang Yang's precise crosses during set pieces. The fans in the stands, recognizing this, erupted into cheers as Yang Yang stepped up to take the kick. 

The reaction puzzled CSKA Moscow's players and coaching staff. Their coach, Valery Gazzaev, exchanged a look with his assistants on the sideline. Why such excitement for a corner? Was Yang Yang Ajax's secret weapon for set pieces? If so, their pre-match defensive strategy might need immediate adjustment. 

Yang Yang could feel the intensity of the moment. The television cameras zoomed in on him, capturing every detail of his composure. He heard the Ajax fans chanting his name, their voices echoing through the stadium. It was motivating, but it also came with immense pressure. As Ajax's star player, expectations rested heavily on his shoulders. 

Taking a deep breath, Yang Yang raised his right hand, pointing his index finger to the sky. The gesture was subtle but unmistakable. 

The crowd held its collective breath, unsure of its significance. Yet, on the pitch, several Ajax players exchanged knowing glances. They understood. 

This was a signal, a coded move perfected during training. Ajax's corner routines were far from random, and this one had been drilled endlessly at De Toekomst, their training ground. It was a show of confidence, a display of preparation—and a message to their opponents. 

Yang Yang adjusted his stance, ready to deliver. The tension in the stadium was palpable. 

After the referee's whistle pierced through the stadium noise, Yang Yang took a deep breath. His body coiled with tension, and then, like a sprinter leaving the blocks, he sprang into action. Each step he took was deliberate, his movements honed by countless hours of training. For two years, he had repeated this process until it became second nature—a precise rhythm ingrained into his muscle memory. 

Planting his left foot firmly next to the ball, he positioned his body at a calculated angle. His right foot swung back like a bowstring being drawn, and with a sharp, fluid motion, it snapped forward to strike the ball cleanly. 

The sound of the impact—a dull, resonant thud—echoed across the stadium. The ball shot off his foot like a missile, cutting through the air with a fierce, whistling speed. The trajectory was low and sharp, carrying both precision and power. 

Yang Yang had unleashed one of his signature moves—Beckham's Technique. 

In the penalty area, chaos erupted as players from both teams scrambled to position themselves. Ajax's attacking players had choreographed their movements to perfection during training. Heitinga, Charisteas, and De Jong darted through the box, their runs designed to disrupt the CSKA Moscow defenders and create confusion. 

Amid the turmoil, Vermaelen made a subtle yet decisive move. Instead of rushing toward the crowded six-yard box, he drifted back toward the penalty spot, creating a pocket of space. Just as Yang Yang struck the ball, the Belgian defender timed his sprint perfectly, charging forward to meet the delivery. 

The CSKA Moscow defenders, realizing the danger too late, scrambled to recover, but Vermaelen was already airborne. Launching himself upward, his timing and positioning were flawless. The ball, spinning with precision, seemed magnetized to his head. Vermaelen connected with power and accuracy, redirecting the ball toward the bottom corner of the goal. 

The stadium erupted as the net rippled. 

"GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!" The commentator's ecstatic roar echoed over the broadcast. 

"Ajax takes the lead in the seventh minute!" 

"1-0!" 

"Vermaelen! Thomas Vermaelen scores a crucial goal for Ajax!" 

The replays confirmed the brilliance of the play. Yang Yang's corner kick was pinpoint, delivering the ball with surgical accuracy. It bent and dipped perfectly, landing exactly where Vermaelen could capitalize. The Belgian's header was unstoppable, leaving Akinfeev, CSKA Moscow's goalkeeper, with no time to react as the ball soared past him into the net. 

Vermaelen punched the ground in triumph before leaping to his feet. His face was a mix of exhilaration and determination as he sprinted toward Yang Yang, who was already breaking into a grin. The two collided in an exuberant embrace, their celebration overflowing with emotion. 

Behind them, Ajax's players rushed forward, forming a jubilant huddle. The stands erupted into cheers as the team celebrated the vital opening goal. 

"This goal is absolutely crucial!" the commentator exclaimed. "In a high-stakes final like this, scoring first gives a massive psychological and tactical advantage." 

The crowd's energy surged as fans waved scarves and roared their approval. 

"Ajax couldn't have asked for a better start. Scoring within seven minutes is beyond anyone's expectations!" 

"But that's football," the co-commentator chimed in. "Yang Yang's corner kick was sublime. The accuracy, the pace—it was a textbook delivery. And Vermaelen's movement was brilliant. He peeled away from his marker and attacked the ball with determination." 

The broadcasters replayed the sequence in slow motion, marveling at the coordination. The camera captured every detail, from Yang Yang's focused expression during the kick to Vermaelen's explosive header. 

"One-nil to Ajax!" the lead commentator concluded. "This early lead puts them in control. Now the question is, can they maintain it and see this through?" 

As the players jogged back to their positions, Yang Yang glanced toward the stands. The Ajax supporters were in full voice, their chants echoing through the Estádio José Alvalade. He couldn't help but smile, knowing his contribution had made the difference. 

For Ajax, it was the perfect start. For CSKA Moscow, it was a wake-up call. The battle had just begun." 

... 

... 

Valery Gazzaev clutched his head in frustration, his fingers digging into his hair as if he might pull it out by the roots. His face was a mask of disbelief and anger, his piercing gaze locked on the pitch. He paced the technical area, shouting instructions at his players, hoping his words would cut through the tension and steady their nerves. 

This was the final. The stakes could not be higher. 

Before the game, the CSKA Moscow coaching staff had meticulously crafted their game plan. They had analyzed Ajax's strengths and weaknesses, carefully dissecting every potential scenario. But how could they have anticipated this? Yang Yang stepping up to take a corner kick, delivering it with such precision, and Vermaelen timing his run to perfection? 

Ajax had played their hand brilliantly. Their usual corner taker, Sneijder, had delivered the first two corners, both dealt with successfully by CSKA Moscow's defense. Sneijder's involvement had lulled them into a false sense of security, leaving Gazzaev and his players blindsided when Yang Yang stepped forward to take the third. 

In their pre-match preparation, Gazzaev had highlighted Yang Yang's penalty kicks as his standout skill in set pieces. His penalties were renowned for their power and accuracy, and fans had come to expect him to hammer the ball straight into the net with unwavering consistency. It was a strategy he had perfected over time, leaving goalkeepers helpless. But Yang Yang hadn't taken a penalty in a while, and Gazzaev had focused less on his other dead-ball skills. 

It was a costly oversight. 

"This is trouble," Gazzaev muttered to himself, his frustration mounting. 

The three-center-back formation he had chosen, while effective at crowding the middle, had left CSKA Moscow vulnerable on the wings. Against Ajax's dynamic flank play, led by Pienaar, Maxwell, Yang Yang, and Maicon, this vulnerability was exposed time and time again. The corner kick, a direct result of wing penetration, had compounded their defensive woes. 

Seven minutes into the game, they had conceded three corners. On the third, Vermaelen punished them with a goal. Ajax was now ahead. Gazzaev was forced to reassess his approach. How do we recover from this? he wondered, glancing at the clock. 

The Russian manager stomped to the edge of the technical area, barking orders to his players. He waved frantically at Yuri Zhirkov and Chidi Odiah, instructing them to drop deeper and provide more support to the wingbacks. They needed to bolster the flanks and neutralize Ajax's wide threats. 

"Stabilize! Hold your positions!" Gazzaev shouted, his voice rising over the noise of the crowd. His gestures were urgent and insistent. The priority now was to weather Ajax's storm, reorganize, and regain composure. The goal had rattled his players, but there was still time to respond. The team needed to dig deep and execute the adjustments. 

CSKA Moscow's defenders exchanged nervous glances as they realigned their positions. Gazzaev's strategy was clear: shut down the wings, close gaps in the wide areas, and avoid conceding another corner. For now, they would prioritize defense over counterattacks, hoping to claw their way back into the game. 

As Gazzaev stood on the touchline, hands on hips, his expression betrayed a mix of anger and resolve. This is just the beginning, he thought, clenching his fists. There's still a long way to go. 

... 

... 

Ajax seemed to have anticipated CSKA Moscow's plan to stabilize and counterattack, and they had no intention of allowing their opponents to regain control. 

Yang Yang observed that Ronald Koeman's tactical directive was clear: press hard, dominate possession, and secure a decisive lead by halftime. It was a strategy rooted in pragmatism. 

Ajax's physical condition was noticeably inferior to their opponents'. If the game dragged into the second half without a significant advantage, CSKA Moscow's physical superiority could tilt the balance against them. By seizing the initiative early, Ajax could force their opponents into a more reactive stance, minimizing their late-game risks. Koeman's gamble was to press relentlessly in the first half, applying suffocating pressure in every phase of play. 

After taking an early 1-0 lead, Ajax intensified their high press, particularly focusing on neutralizing Daniel Carvalho, CSKA Moscow's creative playmaker. Positioned as the heart of their attacking midfield, Carvalho was a key outlet for transitions and counterattacks. Koeman had tasked Tomas Galásek and De Jong, Ajax's double pivots, with containing him. 

Galásek was precise and methodical in his role. In the 14th minute, when Carvalho attempted a daring dribble through the middle, Galásek timed his sliding challenge perfectly. The tackle was ferocious yet calculated, bringing Carvalho to the ground and halting CSKA Moscow's progression. The referee, Graham Poll, immediately brandished a yellow card, but Galásek accepted it without protest. He offered a wry smile to Poll before jogging back into position, his point made. 

The tackle sent a message. While the challenge looked aggressive, it was carefully executed to avoid serious injury. Its primary purpose was intimidation—a psychological play. Daniel Carvalho, now wary of the physicality of Ajax's midfield, became visibly more cautious, hesitating under the looming presence of Galásek and De Jong. The Brazilian playmaker's confidence wavered every time the duo closed in, disrupting the rhythm of CSKA Moscow's attacks. 

Galásek's role in this strategy was pivotal but finite. His fitness often limited his minutes, and Koeman likely planned to substitute him in the second half. By committing the tactical foul early, Galásek fulfilled his duty, sparing the riskier De Jong from unnecessary bookings. De Jong, known for his tenacity and aggressive style, could now play with slightly less restraint, adding another layer of unpredictability to Ajax's midfield dominance. 

As CSKA Moscow struggled to push the ball forward, Ajax tightened their grip, applying pressure further up the pitch. Their high press began to expose vulnerabilities in CSKA Moscow's three-center-back formation. When transitions demanded quick adjustments, the wingbacks Zhirkov and Odiah often surged forward, leaving gaps behind them. Ajax's fluid front three exploited these moments, forcing CSKA's backline into errors. 

In the 28th minute, CSKA defender Sergei Ignashevich received the ball deep in his half. Pressured by Charisteas, he attempted a short pass to Rahimić, positioned only ten meters away. The pass, intended to relieve pressure, instead created chaos. As Rahimić moved to control the ball, Sneijder, lurking unseen, burst forward with a sudden acceleration. He intercepted just as Rahimić reached for the ball, creating a loose ball situation. 

Sneijder's quick reactions caused the ball to deflect left, rolling into open space. Pienaar, reading the play perfectly, surged forward to collect it. Without hesitation, the South African international began driving down the left flank, his pace and control drawing audible excitement from the Ajax supporters. 

As Pienaar advanced, Charisteas sprinted into position, creating a two-on-three situation against CSKA's scrambling defense. Pienaar's technical ability shone as he maintained full control while scanning the field for options. Even at high speed, his awareness of the situation was impeccable. 

Pienaar surged into the penalty area, his feet a blur as he feinted a shot with his right foot, tricking the nearest defender into lunging toward him. With a deft twist, he shifted his body and delivered a sharp, precise cross into the center of the box, threading it past the outstretched legs of the defense. 

Ignashevich, positioned between Charisteas and the goal, had been tasked with blocking the Greek striker's path and denying him a clear shot. However, Pienaar's sudden change of direction and pinpoint pass left the Russian defender flat-footed and struggling to react. Charisteas, sensing the moment, leaned into Ignashevich, using his body to shield the ball and prevent the defender from closing down the space. 

Rather than attempting to control the pass himself, Charisteas allowed the ball to glide past him, a clever dummy that left the CSKA defense scrambling. The ball rolled perfectly into open space near the penalty spot, setting up Ajax's next strike. 

The commentators' voices rose in unison as the play unfolded. 

"A quick response from Ajax!" 

"Pienaar forces his way into the box with brilliant dribbling and delivers a precise cross!" 

"Charisteas lets it run... and Yang Yang is there!" 

Yang Yang arrived like a bullet, timing his run to perfection. With his left foot, he struck the ball cleanly, sending it rocketing toward the bottom corner. Akinfeev, despite his reflexes, had no chance. The ball zipped past him and nestled into the back of the net. 

The stadium exploded into cheers, with the Ajax fans roaring their approval. 

"Goal!!! Gooooooooooal!!!!" 

"In the 28th minute, Ajax scores their second!" 

"Yang Yang! Yang Yang! His name is on the scoresheet again!" 

"That's his seventh goal in this UEFA Cup campaign, and what a finish it was—clinical with his left foot." 

The replay showed the precision of the strike from every angle, emphasizing Yang Yang's sharp movement and Pienaar's brilliance in the buildup. The commentators marveled at the execution. 

"Akinfeev couldn't do anything about it! The placement and power were perfect." 

"Ajax leads 2-0, and what a commanding position they're in now!" 

Yang Yang, unable to contain his joy, sprinted toward the stands where the Ajax fans were in full voice. With a dramatic slide across the grass, he stopped just in front of them, his arms stretched wide, head tilted upward, as if embracing the energy of the crowd. The fans responded in kind, their chants growing louder as they celebrated their star forward. 

This signature celebration had become synonymous with Yang Yang—a symbol of his connection with the supporters. 

Behind him, his teammates rushed to join, forming a jubilant huddle around him. Sneijder, Charisteas, and Pienaar were the first to reach him, their faces lit up with smiles and excitement. 

The commentators continued analyzing the play. 

"This was Yang Yang's first shot of the game, and it ends up in the back of the net!" 

"His composure and ability to seize opportunities are second to none. But questions must be asked about CSKA Moscow's defending. Yang Yang is Ajax's most dangerous player, yet they allowed him that much space." 

"Ajax isn't even known for their attacking prowess this season, but with Yang Yang in form, they've found an edge in the UEFA Cup. CSKA Moscow must regroup quickly or risk losing control of this game entirely." 

As the players jogged back to their positions, Yang Yang exchanged a quick nod with Pienaar, acknowledging the South African's vital role in the goal. Meanwhile, on the sidelines, Ronald Koeman gestured emphatically to his players, urging them to maintain their intensity. 

... 

... 

While Yang Yang celebrated exuberantly beneath the Ajax fan section, arms spread wide in his signature gesture, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich sat stiffly among the Russian supporters of CSKA Moscow. His lips were pressed into a tight line, his expression a mix of frustration and distraction. 

Abramovich hadn't planned to attend this game. He wasn't optimistic about CSKA Moscow's chances against Ajax, but head coach Valery Gazzaev had extended a personal invitation. After some deliberation, the Russian billionaire decided to make an appearance, if only to show support for the club representing his homeland. 

What greeted him, however, was far from what he had hoped. CSKA Moscow was trailing 2-0, and Ajax, with their energetic and youthful squad, had shown a level of dominance that was hard to ignore. 

Abramovich's gaze lingered on the pitch, drawn inevitably to Yang Yang. The Ajax forward wasn't just playing well—he was commanding the game. Abramovich recalled how Yang Yang had catapulted himself into the spotlight last year when Ajax won the UEFA Champions League. It was Yang Yang's decisive goal in the final against Porto that sealed Ajax's victory, a feat that had stunned the footballing world and cemented his reputation as one of Europe's brightest young talents. 

When Jose Mourinho joined Chelsea after that historic final, one of the first players he mentioned was Yang Yang. Abramovich still remembered Mourinho's words during their early discussions. 

"Trust me," Mourinho had said with unwavering conviction. "Yang Yang will become one of the best players in Europe, maybe the best." 

Chelsea had explored the possibility of signing Yang Yang in the months following Ajax's triumph. Talks were initiated with Ajax, but the Dutch club refused to engage, making it clear that Yang Yang was untouchable. To solidify their position, Ajax swiftly announced a contract extension for their star player. 

Abramovich's team had also reached out to Yang Yang's agent, Mino Raiola, but the infamous agent complicated matters by attempting to bundle Yang Yang's potential transfer with deals for other Ajax players, including Hatem Trabelsi and Maxwell. Negotiations fell apart, and Chelsea moved on, signing Arjen Robben, who had since become a cornerstone of their attack. 

Yet Abramovich knew Mourinho still thought about Yang Yang. Watching the Ajax star's performances tonight, it wasn't hard to see why. Yang Yang's explosive speed, impeccable technique, and clinical finishing were undeniable. The way he left Aleksei Berezutskiy, one of Russia's most respected defenders, floundering before scoring with his left foot was nothing short of extraordinary. 

Was Berezutskiy weak? Abramovich knew better. This was a veteran defender, a key player in CSKA Moscow's run to the UEFA Cup final. Yang Yang's brilliance wasn't a reflection of Berezutskiy's shortcomings—it was a testament to the Ajax forward's exceptional talent. 

"This kid is good. You should consider him," remarked a wealthy Russian businessman seated beside Abramovich, his tone half-teasing but tinged with genuine admiration. 

Abramovich's lips twitched into a faint, ambiguous smile. He neither agreed nor dismissed the suggestion outright, his thoughts already turning inward. 

Chelsea's current squad boasted the dynamic duo of Robben and Damien Duff on the wings—players who had been pivotal in the club's success under Mourinho. Adding Yang Yang into the mix would raise questions about balance and squad depth. Was he truly needed? 

Still, the memory of Mourinho's early recommendation lingered. Watching Yang Yang dominate on this stage, Abramovich couldn't help but wonder if the Ajax star was destined for Stamford Bridge after all. 

... 

... 

After scoring their second goal, Ajax took full control of the game. Their dominance was evident in every aspect of play, leaving CSKA Moscow scrambling for answers. 

Daniel Carvalho, CSKA Moscow's primary creative outlet, found himself effectively neutralized by Ajax's well-drilled midfield. The Brazilian playmaker struggled to find space or time on the ball, his every movement shadowed by Galásek and De Jong, who systematically cut off his passing lanes. Without Carvalho's influence, CSKA's attack lacked the spark needed to break through Ajax's disciplined defense. 

Adding to their woes, conceding two quick goals had shaken the Russian players' confidence. Anxiety began to creep into their movements, their passes growing hurried and imprecise. This was the final, and with only ninety minutes to decide the outcome, time was slipping away faster than they could adapt. 

Ajax, in contrast, exuded composure. With their lead secure, they settled into a patient, controlled approach. Ronald Koeman had instructed his players to apply high-pressure tactics in midfield, waiting for CSKA Moscow to make mistakes. The Dutch side's superior experience on big stages shone through as they dictated the tempo, forcing their opponents to chase the game. 

Despite Ajax's dominance, CSKA Moscow managed to create a rare opportunity in the 39th minute. Ivica Olić, showing his characteristic tenacity, received the ball on the right flank and delivered a well-weighted cross into the box. Vagner Love rose to meet it, but Vermaelen, demonstrating his aerial prowess, timed his leap perfectly to intercept the ball, redirecting it out for a corner. The chance fizzled out, leaving CSKA frustrated. 

Just three minutes later, Ajax delivered a punishing response. After winning possession in midfield, they launched a swift counterattack. The ball found its way to Pienaar, who deftly cut inside from the left and laid it off to Maxwell. The Brazilian left-back surged forward, his overlapping run catching CSKA's defense off guard. Reaching the byline, Maxwell whipped in a low cross to the edge of the six-yard box. 

CSKA goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev, recognizing the imminent danger, rushed off his line and lunged forward, managing to punch the ball away just before Charisteas could pounce. However, his clearance lacked distance, the ball falling to none other than Yang Yang, who had positioned himself expertly at the top of the penalty area. 

Without hesitation, Yang Yang adjusted his stance, leaned slightly to his left, and struck the ball with precision and power. His shot zipped past the scrambling defenders and nestled into the bottom corner of the net. 

Goal! 

The Ajax fans erupted in celebration as Yang Yang scored his second of the night, his eighth goal in the UEFA Cup this season. He turned to face the crowd, arms outstretched in his trademark gesture, soaking in the adulation of his teammates and supporters. His composure and finishing made it look effortless, but it was a moment of true quality. 

Meanwhile, CSKA Moscow's players sank to the ground, their frustration palpable. The scoreboard now read 0-3, and the reality of their situation hit them like a hammer blow. 

The commentators captured the mood in their analysis. 

"Yang Yang! Another goal! Ajax now lead by three!" 

"This goal was a product of relentless pressure and clinical finishing. Akinfeev did his best to intercept the cross, but Yang Yang was perfectly positioned to capitalize on the rebound. What a performance from the Ajax star!" 

CSKA's confidence had evaporated entirely. Before the match, their players had exuded optimism, convinced they could compete with the reigning UEFA Champions League winners. But as the game unfolded, it became glaringly clear that Ajax operated on a different level. 

Despite their status as defending Champions League champions, Ajax had faced difficulties earlier this season. They had finished third in their group, which included powerhouses Juventus and Bayern Munich, and were relegated to the UEFA Cup. However, that setback seemed only to galvanize the team. With their talent and resilience, Ajax had adapted to their new competition and were now on the verge of winning another European trophy. 

"This Ajax squad, though slightly less formidable than last season's, still possessed a level of quality that most clubs struggled to match. Their cohesive play, fueled by explosive talents like Yang Yang, stood as a testament to their enduring strength as a European powerhouse." 

By halftime, the game felt all but decided. Ajax's ability to dominate their opponents tactically and mentally showcased the strength of a truly elite European team. 

... 

... 

With a three-goal lead, Ajax entered the second half brimming with confidence. Their first-half dominance had set the tone, and the players carried that momentum as they prepared to finish the job. 

During the halftime break, Ronald Koeman addressed his team with a mixture of praise and focus. 

"You've done brilliantly so far," he told them, his tone steady and composed. "But remember, the game isn't over yet. Stay sharp, stay disciplined, and keep control. If we play steadily, this victory will be ours!" 

When the second half began, CSKA Moscow made no changes to their lineup but came out with renewed aggression, looking to mount a comeback. However, their efforts were disjointed, and their attacks failed to trouble Ajax's organized defense. 

In the 50th minute, a telling moment exposed the growing frustration and disarray among the Moscow players. Under intense pressure from Ajax's relentless pressing, central defender Sergei Ignashevich attempted a back pass to his goalkeeper, Igor Akinfeev. Ajax's forwards immediately closed down the space, and in his haste, Akinfeev picked up the ball with his hands—a clear violation of the rules. 

Ajax's players immediately raised their arms in protest, surrounding referee Graham Poll. The English official did not issue a harsh punishment but awarded Ajax an indirect free kick near the bottom line, on the right side of the penalty area. The tension among the CSKA Moscow players was evident, and their nerves were beginning to unravel. 

Once again, Yang Yang stepped up to take the free kick. His precise delivery into the penalty area found Wesley Sneijder, who timed his run perfectly and struck the ball on the volley. The shot cannoned off the post and rebounded away, narrowly missing a fourth goal for Ajax. 

Though the chance went begging, the sequence underscored the contrasting mental states of the two teams. Ajax, brimming with confidence, continued to create opportunities, while CSKA Moscow's defensive errors betrayed their crumbling morale. 

Sensing the game was well in hand, Koeman began to make tactical substitutions. Yang Yang, Sneijder, and Galásek were withdrawn in the second half, making way for Ryan Babel, Daniel de Ridder, and Hedwiges Maduro. The changes allowed Ajax to rotate their squad and give valuable playing time to younger players. 

When Yang Yang was substituted for Babel, the crowd erupted in applause. The fans recognized his decisive contribution: two goals and one assist, a performance that continued his outstanding form in the league and confirmed his status as Ajax's talisman. 

As the game wore on, CSKA Moscow struggled to create any meaningful chances. Ajax's defense, marshaled by Vermaelen and Heitinga, remained impenetrable, and the Russian side's attempts at a comeback fizzled out. 

At the final whistle, Ajax celebrated a commanding 3-0 victory, securing yet another European trophy. The players embraced one another on the pitch, their joy reflecting the culmination of months of hard work and perseverance. 

The commentators summed up the match as the Ajax players lifted the UEFA Cup. 

"What a performance from Ajax! A dominant display from start to finish, and Yang Yang was at the heart of it all." 

"This victory cements their status as one of Europe's finest clubs. After their Champions League triumph last season, this UEFA Cup win shows the depth of quality and resilience in this team." 

For Ajax, it was another triumphant chapter in their storied history. For Yang Yang, it was yet another step toward fulfilling his destiny as one of the most exciting talents in European football. 

... 

... 

As referee Graham Poll blew the final whistle, the stands of Estádio José Alvalade erupted in celebration. Streams of colorful confetti burst into the air, fluttering like vibrant snowflakes, drifting and spinning under the stadium lights. The festive atmosphere painted the night sky with shades of joy and triumph. 

On the pitch, Ajax players let out jubilant roars, embracing one another as they celebrated their emphatic victory. Their chants and cheers echoed through the stadium, a testament to their unity and hard-earned success. In the middle of the chaos, Ronald Koeman, their head coach, was hoisted into the air by the team. They tossed him skyward repeatedly, their laughter and applause underscoring the significance of the moment. This was Ajax's second European trophy in two years—a historic feat for the Dutch club. 

The celebrations reached another peak when the stadium's announcer declared Yang Yang the Best Player of the UEFA Cup Final. The announcement was met with a thunderous ovation from the Ajax faithful. Fans rose to their feet, chanting Yang Yang's name, their voices filled with admiration and pride. 

On the pitch, his teammates and coaching staff swarmed him. They clapped him on the back, lifted him onto their shoulders, and surrounded him in a circle of celebration. For Ajax, this honor was well-deserved. Though their UEFA Cup journey began midseason after their relegation from the Champions League, Yang Yang's contributions had been nothing short of extraordinary. His goals, assists, and leadership throughout the tournament had been pivotal in securing the trophy. 

At just 19 years old, Yang Yang had achieved something remarkable—becoming the youngest player ever to win Best Player in the UEFA Cup. The weight of the accolade hit him as he stood in the spotlight, overwhelmed by the applause and admiration of his teammates and fans. 

At just 19 years old, Yang Yang had achieved a remarkable feat—becoming the youngest player ever to be named Best Player in the UEFA Cup Final. The announcement drew thunderous applause from Ajax supporters and jubilant cheers from his teammates. This marked his first major triumph as the focal point of a team, and the significance of the honor wasn't lost on him. 

Tonight's victory stood far above his earlier success in the Toyota Cup. While that trophy had brought its own moments of pride, it didn't carry the same weight or prestige as lifting the UEFA Cup. Claiming victory on this grand European stage was a defining milestone in Yang Yang's budding career. 

Yet, even as confetti rained down and the crowd's cheers echoed through the stadium, Yang Yang couldn't fully revel in the moment. His ambitions stretched far beyond this accomplishment. He yearned for the spotlight of the Champions League, the ultimate proving ground where the world's biggest clubs judged greatness. He wanted to shine there, just as he had throughout this UEFA Cup campaign. 

"The biggest clubs care about performances in the Champions League," his agent, Mino Raiola, had reminded him time and again, planting the seed for his next challenge. 

Yang Yang couldn't deny the truth in Raiola's words. Tonight's triumph was monumental, but he saw it as just one step in a much larger journey. His performances in the UEFA Cup had laid a strong foundation, but dominating the Champions League was the ultimate goal—one that would cement his legacy in European football. 

Even as his teammates celebrated around him, Yang Yang's thoughts drifted to the upcoming 34th round of the Eredivisie. He was tied with Dirk Kuyt as the league's top scorer, with the coveted Golden Boot within reach. Scoring in the final round wasn't just a goal; it was essential. He envisioned himself finding the back of the net at least twice, securing his spot as the league's top scorer and extending his record-breaking season. 

The thought brought a confident smile to his face. As his teammates continued their jubilant celebrations, Yang Yang silently resolved to seize every opportunity ahead. Tonight's victory was a stepping stone. Greater challenges and even brighter moments awaited—and he was ready for them.