Against All Odds: Legacy Of A Football King
Chapter 113: Eredivisie Matchday 4

Chapter 113: Eredivisie Matchday 4

Saturday morning came quickly, and Sophie was already gone by the time Benjamin and Adam woke up. She had an early shift at work, leaving the apartment unusually quiet.

Benjamin and Adam ate breakfast in comfortable silence before heading out to the training complex together.

The two young players reached the AFAS Training Complex ahead of schedule, the cool morning air a refreshing start to their day.

The weather was pleasant, with a gentle breeze and clear skies—a perfect day for training. They arrived early, joining a few other teammates who were already warming up on the pitch.

The atmosphere was calm, and almost relaxed, as everyone prepared for the light training session ahead.

Gertjan Verbeek had made it clear that today’s session would be light and focus on possession football.

With the match against Roda JC scheduled for the following day which was the 2nd of September, Coach Gertjan Verbeek had no intention of pushing the team too hard against a team positioned in 16th place.

Not that he was being conceited or underestimating his opponent, but following through with the necessary tactical approach against a weaker team.

He emphasized to the players on maintaining control on the ball, focusing on short passes and retaining possession when dispossessed.

It was a tactical approach aimed at conserving energy and minimizing the risk of injuries.

Gertjan Verbeek reminded the players that Sunday’s game was just the beginning of a crucial stretch.

While they needed a strong performance at home, the bigger challenge loomed two weeks later against PSV in Eindhoven. Fatigue or injuries now could prove costly later.

His plan was simple: dominate possession, control the tempo, and frustrate the opposition.

The players followed the routine with focused discipline, running through drills that reinforced their passing accuracy and off-the-ball movement.

There was no heavy pressing or high-intensity scrimmages. Instead, the emphasis remained on maintaining shape and keeping a calm tempo.

The drills were straightforward but effective. The players worked on tight passing sequences, moving the ball quickly between small groups while maintaining constant pressure on the opposition.

By the time the session wrapped up, the team felt prepared but not overworked. Gertjan Verbeek’s strategy was clear, and the players knew the importance of sticking to the plan.

Benjamin and Adam left the complex together late in the afternoon, making light conversations as they walked back to the apartment, ready to recharge for the game tomorrow.

***

The next day, fans poured into the AFAS Stadion, and the air was alive with anticipation as Eredivisie matchday four was about to begin.

The crowd buzzed with excitement, and a sea of red and white flags waved about, along with chants in unison.

The two commentators prepared for their commentary duties, and their voices cut through the lively pre-match atmosphere.

[Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,] the first commentator began, his voice smooth and welcoming. [Welcome to matchday four of the Eredivisie season. We’re here at the AFAS Stadion, where AZ Alkmaar takes on Roda JC in what promises to be an intriguing matchup]

[Absolutely,] his colleague chimed in, his tone slightly more animated. [The home side, AZ Alkmaar, currently sit ninth on the table with four points from their opening three games. They’re just three points off the top four, so a win today could really help them climb the standings]

The first commentator nodded, adjusting his notes. [Meanwhile, it’s been a tough start for Roda JC. The underdogs find themselves in sixteenth place, with zero points to their name after three games. They’ll be desperate to turn things around, but it’s a tall order against a strong AZ Alkmaar side]

[Speaking of strong, let’s talk about AZ Alkmaar’s teenage sensation, Benjamin Yinka Rijkaard,] the second commentator said, leaning forward. [The 17-year-old has been electric so far this season. In four matches, he’s already racked up four goals and five assists. That’s two goals and four assists in the league and two goals with one assist in the Europa League. Incredible numbers for someone his age!]

[Definitely one to watch,] the first commentator agreed. [Benjamin has started three of those matches and came off the bench in one. It’s remarkable how quickly he’s adapted to first-team football. Today’s match could be another opportunity for him to showcase his talent]

The camera panned across the packed stadium, capturing fans waving scarves and cheering as the players emerged from the tunnel. The roar of the crowd grew louder, and the commentators continued their analysis.

[But let’s not forget, Roda JC might be struggling, but they’ll come here with nothing to lose,] the second commentator pointed out. [That kind of freedom can make them dangerous. AZ Alkmaar will need to be careful not to underestimate their opponents]

[True,] the first commentator replied. [Coach Gertjan Verbeek has emphasized possession football in the lead-up to this game, a strategy aimed at controlling the tempo and minimizing risks. Let’s see how that plays out on the pitch today]

Fweeeee!~

The referee blew his whistle and the match began with Roda JC passing the ball from the center circle.

Roda JC started cautiously, passing the ball around their backline as they tried to settle into the game.

The AZ Alkmaar players pressed lightly, following Coach Verbeek’s instructions to conserve energy and focus on maintaining their shape.

[And we’re off! Roda JC with the first touch, looking to build from the back,] the first commentator said as the game got underway.

[It’s going to be interesting to see how they approach this one,] the second commentator added. [They’ve struggled in their opening games, but sometimes teams like this can surprise you when their backs are against the wall]

AZ Alkmaar quickly regained possession after a misplaced pass from Roda JC’s midfielder.

Adam Maher, who was included in the starting lineup for today’s game played it forward to Henriksen, who began orchestrating the tempo in midfield.

[AZ Alkmaar already showing why they’re favorites here,] the first commentator noted. [Look at Henriksen dictating the game in the middle, such a calming presence]

[They’re sticking to the plan, keeping the ball and forcing Roda JC to chase,] the second commentator observed. [This is exactly what Gertjan Verbeek would’ve wanted—a controlled start with no unnecessary risks]