The stadium lights glared down on the turf as Naif Al-Hadhrami jogged to his position, the national colors bold against his chest. He adjusted his wrist tape and took a breath. This match wasn’t just another cap—it was a proving ground.

“Naif,” the captain said, clapping a hand on his shoulder. “Play your game. Trust your instincts.”

He nodded, heart pounding but focused. The whistle blew.

From the first touch, Naif moved with purpose. His passes were crisp, his positioning disciplined. When the ball broke free near the center circle, he pounced—intercepting with a slide, then springing to his feet in one fluid motion.

“Bravo, Naif!” shouted the coach from the sidelines.

A defender raced toward him, but Naif feinted left, cut right, and threaded a perfect through ball between two stunned opponents.

“Magic,” murmured a teammate, already chasing the pass.

Naif didn’t celebrate. He just turned, ready to do it again. The game wasn’t won yet—but he intended to leave his mark.