The crowd's roar faded into the background as Yousef Hassan tightened his gloves, eyes locked on the approaching attacker during the training match. Every muscle in his body was primed for action.

“Yousef, keep your eyes on the ball!” the coach called out, pacing the sidelines.

Yousef’s teammate sprinted back, but the attacker unleashed a fierce shot towards the goal.

Without hesitation, Yousef dove, stretching every inch of his frame, fingertips brushing the ball just enough to divert it wide.

“Good save!” his defender shouted, running over. “You’ve got nerves of steel.”

Yousef nodded, breathing steady. “It’s all about timing. If I’m a step late, it’s a goal. We win or lose together.”

The coach smiled, impressed. “That’s the spirit. Lead from the back, Hassan. We need that confidence.”

Yousef glanced at his teammates, determination shining in his eyes. “Let’s keep our focus. This season, nothing slips past us.”