The crowd buzzed softly under the evening lights as Mykola Saparenko took his place in midfield. The whistle blew, and the game was underway. Mykola’s eyes scanned the field, searching for space, for opportunity.

“Keep your head up, Mykola,” his coach had reminded him before kickoff. “See the game two steps ahead.”

He felt the weight of responsibility but welcomed it. With a deft touch, he controlled the ball, drawing pressure from an opponent.

“Pass it wide, Mykola! Don’t get caught in tight spaces!” a teammate called out.

He nodded almost imperceptibly, then flicked the ball expertly toward the wing.

“Good vision,” his teammate praised, sprinting to receive it. “You’re setting the pace out here.”

Mykola smiled to himself. This was more than just a game—it was a chance to shape the outcome, to inspire his team.

“Let’s keep pushing. Eyes open,” he murmured, ready for the next move.