When the match ended, the excitement of the stadium was still hanging in the air. As the fans’ cheers echoed, I was holding Abelia in my arms a short distance away from the stands. Even though she was only a year old, the admiration she felt for her father was already evident in her eyes. She kept tugging at my jersey with her little hands, muttering, “Dada!”

After a short celebration with her teammates, Jude started walking towards the interview area. As I followed her, I felt both pride and an indescribable peace in my heart. This was not just a match for Jude, but part of his responsibilities and love as a father.

When we arrived at the interview area, Abelia excitedly reached out to her father. Jude took her in his arms without hesitation. It was as if she and Abelia were the only ones around the cameras and microphones. When the microphone was extended for her to begin the interview, Abelia grabbed the microphone with her little hands and turned to face him, as if to prevent him from speaking.

“Dada,” she said firmly, cutting off Jude’s every word. Jude looked at her with a smile, but it was impossible not to feel the seriousness and love in her eyes.