From Arsenal to the Ball God

After falling behind zero to one, Udinese played more proactively. Their original five-four-one formation frequently switched to three-four-three at this time.

The two full-backs often moved up near the midfield to assist in the attack, and the wing midfielders frequently positioned themselves as wingers.

Serie A teams are mostly like this; they prefer a secure one-zero victory, opting for a conservative counter-attacking strategy at the start and attacking in full force only when they are behind.

In the 30th minute of the match, the Udinese coach substituted a midfielder for a full-back, officially changing the formation to a four-three-three for a stronger attack.

The goal was not to win away, but to score an away goal, ensuring a greater chance of a comeback when playing at home.

No one wants to miss entering the Champions League proper, as it represents substantial dividends, bonuses, and increased influence!

”Bang bang bang.....!”

In the 37th minute, Udinese launched a series of attacks.

They amassed a significant offensive force in the front positions, pressing in front of Arsenal’s penalty area.

First, Asamoah took a long-distance shot, which was blocked by Koscielny and the ball fell to Pablo’s feet, who then passed it to the flank, followed by Badu sending a cross.

”Bang!”

In the center, their main center-forward Di Natale executed a header, Szczeny blocked it, and the ball fell back in front of the small penalty area.

Vermaelen and another Udinese midfielder Ping Qi contested for the ball. Ping Qi reached the ball first and took a very dangerous volley.

”Whoosh!” The ball whistled over the crossbar, almost finding its way into the goal.

It didn’t go in!

A wasted golden opportunity!

”.....” Udinese’s expedition forces looked disappointed, unable to even express their regret. They had been suppressed by Arsenal, and the rare opportunity for continuous attack amounted to nothing.

”Ah.....Ping Qi!”

The English commentator in the broadcast studio expressed deep regret, shaking his head: ”He’s a defensive midfielder, technically average, but he really should have scored that one.

”Arsenal might not give Udinese a similar chance again. Their aggression today is strong, constantly suppressing Udinese, hoping to replicate the big win from the last match against Newcastle.

”Their desire for the Champions League is evident. Let’s see if Wenger’s team can score again.”

The commentator glanced towards Arsenal’s bench, noticing that Little Tiger Walcott was already up and warming up, possibly coming on in the second half.

Time for both wings to attack together!

......

In the remaining match time, Udinese once again showed fatigue, as if missing the golden opportunity struck a heavy blow, sapping their energy.

Arsenal began to speed up and press, pushing them back into their half, preventing any more attacks.

This kind of situation is quite common on the field, much like two armies clashing, focusing on gaining the upper hand.

The momentum rises and falls; when your opponent senses your weakness, they gain confidence and suppress you with fierce attacks.

”Bang bang.....!”

Arsenal firmly controlled possession, transferring the ball left and right to tear apart Udinese’s defense, seeking opportunities.

In this process, Ma’el tried crossing from various positions and took two long shots, both of quality, but unfortunately didn’t break the goal again.

Serie A teams are good at defending against headers and long shots, which is common in Serie A matches. Their defenders and goalkeepers are experienced in this regard.

But he knows, as long as he tries frequently, with his skill level, he will eventually send the ball into the opponent’s goal!

”Clap clap clap.....!” Arsenal fans often gave him a burst of applause, with people frequently standing up to clench their fists in support and encouragement.

They, too, looked forward to Ma’el’s goal, hoping to see Ma’el’s stylish celebration at the Emirates Stadium!

The Champions League playoffs are very important matches, but in fact, they don’t attract much fan interest.

Today, the Emirates Stadium is packed, undoubtedly partly because of Ma’el.....just like the banner held by a fan on the western stand — ”Our hearts beat for you! We’re ready to cheer for you!”

”Beep! Beep——!”

The halftime whistle sounded, and Ma’el stretched his leg muscles and quickly walked into the dressing room.

Rest well, in the second half, strive to satisfy the fans at the Emirates Stadium!

”How are you feeling?”

Alexander Song entered the tunnel with him, a talkative person, curious: ”This is your first match against a foreign team in the official competition, right.”

”Very novel.” Ma’el nodded in response, expressing his genuine feeling: ”Actually, when playing Bayern, I didn’t feel much difference, as top teams have similar levels, and there’s not much style difference among elite teams.

”Including the Bundesliga’s rhythm itself is very fast, very close to the Premier League.

”But the Serie A teams are different, they have their own football philosophy, which gives a completely different feeling. I find it a bit hard to adapt.”

”Just wait for my pass.” Alexander Song said, patting his chest, his mind had already leaped forward imagining himself giving Ma’el a brilliant assist to help the young general adapt to the Serie A style team.

He considered himself a good person, a warm-hearted fellow.

”Alright.” Ma’el laughed twice; Song was indeed quite lovable, occasionally making people laugh unexpectedly.

Thinking of the hundreds of vampire relatives he has in Africa.....he hesitated briefly, yet followed this topic with a hint: ”But Song, sometimes you have to think more about yourself.”