Captain Tsubasa: The Striker

The Nankatsu soccer field was lively with the sounds of practice—shouts, footsteps, and the thud of the ball being kicked. A cool breeze swept across the field as the players warmed up, led by their energetic captain, Tsubasa.

Kaito stood silently nearby, observing the drills with sharp focus. His crimson eyes narrowed as he watched his new teammates move across the pitch.

On the sidelines, Roberto Hongo leaned casually against the fence, a bottle tucked into his pocket. His eyes were sharp, watching every movement on the field.

"Alright, everyone, gather up!" Roberto called, clapping his hands.

The team jogged over, forming a loose circle around him. Ishizaki flopped onto the grass, panting loudly.

"Man, this guy again?" Ishizaki groaned, wiping sweat from his brow. "I thought he was just some washed-up guy hanging around."

Tsubasa grinned. "You'll see what he can do."

Roberto crossed his arms, his voice steady. "Listen up. Your next game isn't going to be easy. I watched your last match—you've got heart, but you're sloppy."

The players shifted uncomfortably.

Roberto's eyes landed on Tsubasa. "Tsubasa, you're good, but it's time to step up. I want you to lead as a playmaker. Control the game, set up plays, and make your team better."

Tsubasa nodded, his expression serious.

Then Roberto turned to Kaito. "And you, Kaito—you've got power, but it's wild. I'll help you control that shot so you can use it whenever you want."

Kaito's eyes flickered with interest.

"The rest of you," Roberto added, "support your captain and trust each other. Soccer isn't a one-man show."

Ishizaki perked up. "Does that mean I get to score goals too?"

Roberto sighed. "It means stop tripping over your own feet."

The team burst into laughter, even Ishizaki chuckling.

The next hour was tough. Roberto made the players work hard with passing drills, shooting practice, and teamwork exercises.

Tsubasa quickly got the hang of his new role, setting up passes and organizing plays. His vision on the field was impressive, and his teammates followed his lead naturally.

Kaito, however, struggled. His shots were either too wild or too weak. Frustration crept onto his face.

"Relax," Roberto said calmly. "Stop thinking so much. Trust your body."

Kaito nodded. On the next pass from Tsubasa, Kaito struck the ball with confidence. It shot through the air, curving sharply before slamming into the net with incredible force.

The net shook, and the team froze.

"Whoa!" Ishizaki shouted. "That was crazy!"

"Dragon Fang," Yuko called from the sidelines with a playful smile. "Still sounds weird, though."

Roberto chuckled. "Weird or not, it's deadly."

Kaito wiped sweat from his brow, a rare smile creeping onto his face.

"You're improving," Roberto said. "But keep at it. Consistency is key."

As practice wrapped up, the players chatted in small groups. Ishizaki was bragging about a tackle he'd made earlier, while Tsubasa and Kaito stood quietly near Roberto.

"You're a natural leader, Tsubasa," Roberto told him. "Keep that up."

"I will," Tsubasa promised.

Nearby, Yuko approached Kaito. "Hey, nice shot today," she said with a friendly smile.

"Thanks," Kaito replied quietly.

Ishizaki grinned, draping an arm around Kaito. "We should celebrate! How about I show you the best ramen spot in town?"

Kaito gave him a blank look. "I'll pass."

The group laughed, their bond growing stronger by the day.

As the sun began to set, Roberto gave one final order. "Get some rest. Tomorrow, we train harder."

Tsubasa and Kaito exchanged a glance, determination shining in their eyes. Under Roberto's guidance, they knew great things were ahead.