The SSCL was held in a floating stadium in Dubai — the “Arena Aurora.” Eight teams: Real Madrid Academy, Borussia Dortmund Juniors, Paris Saint-Germain Tech, Ajax Skill School, Manchester United Freestylers, Flamengo Tricksters, AC Milan Virtuosi, and Leo’s Rivadavia.
90th minute. Score tied. Extra time would be next, but Leo saw the referee look at his watch. One last attack. Rivadavia won a free kick 25 meters out — slightly left of center. Perfect for a left-footer. soccer skills champions league
Second half, 75th minute: Jefinho nutmegged Leo near the sideline and laughed. Leo didn’t react. Instead, two minutes later, he received the ball at the edge of the box, three defenders around him. He faked a cross, then performed the — spinning 360 while dragging the ball with his sole, then backheeling it through a defender’s legs to his winger. The winger crossed, Leo jumped, bicycle kick — goal. The Arena Aurora exploded. Rivadavia advanced to the final. The SSCL was held in a floating stadium
Leo placed the ball. His teammates whispered, “Pass?” He shook his head. Klaas van der Berg stood in the wall, smirking. “You can’t curve it over us, midget.” Extra time would be next, but Leo saw
The opponent: Real Madrid Juniors, led by the arrogant but brilliant Dutch striker, Klaas van der Berg. Klaas had scored a “sombrero flick” over a keeper from 30 meters in the semis. The final was set for Saturday night, under floodlights and 60,000 fans.