Chapter 364: Champions League Quarter-Finals Arrive: An Incredibly Difficult Battle

The online debate among fans regarding KFC and McDonald's vying for Tom was intense, but the hype quickly faded.

This was because the Champions League quarter-finals were about to begin, with Manchester United hosting Juventus at Old Trafford on April 3rd.

Premier League second versus Serie A first; undoubtedly, this was a clash of titans.

But exactly who was stronger remained unclear for now.

While players from both sides prepared diligently, the newspaper "442" released their analysis.

According to "442," Juventus's tactics this season perfectly embodied the characteristics of Italian football: solid defense, efficient counter-attacks, and an emphasis on midfield control.

Of these three traits, both the counter-attack and midfield control were highly effective against Manchester United.

"Manchester United has a characteristic in attack: the midfield line pushes forward endlessly. Tom even frequently disappears in the midfield. If Juventus seizes the opportunity to launch a counter-attack, it would be unacceptable for United's defense."

Tom frequently disappears in the midfield?

The remarks by the "442" newspaper sparked dissatisfaction among Tang Ye's fans, and the Twitter comment section was quickly flooded.

With Tom's presence being so prominent, how could he be disappearing in the midfield!

It's simply that his teammates on the wings need Tom!

China Sports Lottery: Home win 1 to 2.17, Away win 1 to 2.61.

Judging by the sports lottery odds, the home team, Manchester United, was the more favored side.

However, considering that many people were betting on a United victory out of support for Tang Ye, these odds held little reference value.

The gap in strength between the two sides was extremely small; no one knew which team would emerge as the ultimate victor.

Owen: "The first leg between Manchester United and Juventus should end 2:2 or 1:2. United is strong, but honestly, I favor Juventus more."

"..."

Upon seeing Owen's prediction news, Tang Ye's mood soured.

How could he favor Juventus more!

This was a detestable fellow; Tang Ye immediately added Owen to his blacklist.

Anyone who underestimated him and the bonds with his friends would ultimately be proven wrong!

Without further ado, Tang Ye pulled out the controller he kept by his bedside.

First, he would play a few dozen matches against Juventus to test things out!

When match day arrived, the team buses for Juventus and Manchester United entered the stadium almost simultaneously.

Tang Ye merely glanced briefly in the direction of the Juventus bus before shifting his attention to the huge banners hanging around the stadium perimeter.

Besides the Champions League logo, Tang Ye also saw giant posters featuring himself and Rashford.

Tang Ye found it very puzzling why Manchester United had created such a benign-looking poster for him.

Clearly, during matches, he was a fiercely ruthless character!

"I don't think I need to emphasize to you how important this match is. Our opponent is excellent; they will try to control possession. At the start of the game, we can concede possession to them; that is fine. I have mentioned this during training as well."

Tang Ye sat on the bench listening to Ten Hag speak.

It was evident that Mr. Sitting Like was somewhat nervous, yet he was trying his best to control his anxiety.

"..."

"Everyone must bring their best form; only then can we win!"

"Roar!"

A roar erupted from the locker room as the Manchester United players gathered in the center.

As always, Commander Tom would lead his teammates in shouting the fiercest chant.

Tang Ye scanned the eyes of his teammates one by one.

"Three, two, one!"

Deep breath!

"Man Utd, forward!"

"Man Utd, forward!"

"Man Utd, forward!"

Let's go, let's go!

Bang!

Kicking open the locker room door with a single blow, Ashley Young led the players charging out.

"China Central Television! Here we are broadcasting live for you..."

The familiar Champions League anthem rang out across the stadium; chewing gum and high-fiving his teammates, Tang Ye took his position.

Fans in the stands were counting down to the kickoff of this match.

"Ten!"

"Nine!"

"..."

"One!"

"Beep!!!"

【You purchased Vardy's Red Bull +5】

"Alright, the match has begun. Now I will introduce the starting lineups for both sides. First, the home team, Manchester United, wearing red jerseys, from the screen..."

"Since he has already played in the Champions League for Villarreal, Aleix is still ineligible to appear in this match."

"..."

"And now, the away team, Juventus!"

Juventus (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Buffon

Defenders: Alex Sandro, Chiellini, Benatia, De Sciglio

Midfielders: Matuidi, Pjanic, Khedira

Forwards: Mandzukic, Higuain, Douglas Costa

Head Coach: Allegri.

Juventus brought out their commonly used 4-3-3 formation from this season.

Ten Hag stood on the sideline with a serious expression, remaining silent.

The Manchester United coaching staff had studied Juventus playing in a 4-3-3; guessing the opponent's formation correctly would be a significant help for Manchester United in today's match.

But Ten Hag could not smile.

Because this was Manchester United's first match against an Italian team this season.

Juventus's completely different playing style might cause Manchester United to suffer!

"Forward, forward, go, go, go!"

Chiellini signaled Matuidi to make an overlapping run on the left flank while he dribbled the ball forward himself.

Tang Ye followed Chiellini!

Glancing left, then right, Tang Ye signaled Herrera to mark Mandzukic tightly.

Slap!

Chiellini played a through ball to Matuidi!

"Matuidi is dribbling past defenders on the wing by himself."

"His speed is quite fast; since Manchester United lacks players with strong interception abilities in the attacking third, they may have to let Matuidi advance."

Upon reaching the attacking third, Matuidi faced pressing from Herrera.

He immediately passed the ball to Mandzukic!

Slap!

A very decisive cross sent straight to Higuain inside the penalty area.

Control the ball!

Then volley it!

Slap!

Higuain's volley was saved away by the goalkeeper De Gea!

Although playing away at Old Trafford, Juventus immediately put immense pressure on Manchester United right from the start of the match.

With that attack just now, the Italian team sent a message to Manchester United.

Their form was excellent!

"Hiss..."

Tang Ye bit down on the chewing gum in his mouth and returned to the position at the top of the arc to wait for the corner kick.

The opponent was truly formidable.

After playing for the first few minutes, Juventus had exerted tremendous pressure on Tang Ye.

Tang Ye had only felt this kind of pressure before when playing against Mancheng!

As Juventus took the corner kick, Tang Ye made his judgment.

"Far post!"

Boom!

Bailly headed down firmly, suppressing his opponent to clear the ball directly.

Beautiful!

Silently praising Bailly in his heart, Tang Ye began sprinting forward.

The opponent was formidable, but Tom's friends were no small potatoes either!

Herrera received Bailly's clearance!

Sensing an opportunity, Tang Ye stopped directly in the center of the pitch.

Shaking off Pjanic!

Herrera passed the ball horizontally; Tang Ye planted his left foot and decisively extended his right.

Slap!

【De Bruyne Curved Through Ball Lv5: Replication (Transcendent State)】

Proficiency: 192/3500

"Tang Ye passes directly!"

A long pass, neither too high nor too low, came from the backfield.

It landed on the empty ground right in front of De Sciglio!

The instant the ball touched the grass, it suddenly changed direction to the left.

Rashford arrived galloping up!

This was... the Cat-and-Mouse connection!

This was a great opportunity; Rashford dared not be negligent and immediately accelerated toward the penalty area.

Tang Ye, having just completed the pass, slowly jogged forward from the backfield.

Combining the speed attributes of Rashford and De Sciglio from FIFA 18 to judge, if this ball reached its intended position, Rashford should be able to find a one-on-one opportunity.

What do you say, Marcus!

It's up to you!

Shielding with his right hand against De Sciglio, Rashford arrived at the edge of the penalty area.

The goalkeeper is charging out!

Rashford slows down!

A pushed shot!

Buffon sits down on the spot; Rashford's pushed shot slips through the gap between his thigh and arm into the goal.

"GOOOO——AAAAA——LLLLL!!!!"

"Marcus Rashford!"

The Sky Sports commentator on-site shouts the scorer's name loudly.

"In the 8th minute of the match, Manchester United opens the scoring!"

【Rashford is truly fast, damn it】

【Tang Tang Qiuwang! Another 40-meter long pass!】

【We're taking off, brothers; I thought Juventus would score first】

【Rashford's one-on-one is very steady; can someone teach Wu Lei?】

Rashford slides on his knees with all his might to celebrate.

A goal in the Champions League quarter-finals; the significance behind this needs no further explanation.

Tang Ye is rushing over.

"Haha, Marcus!"

He embraces Rashford tightly.

Tang Ye wouldn't claim he calculated everything, but that is the fact.

【You have obtained 15 Counterattack Points】

【Phase Three Mission Progress: 4/6】

Unknowingly, the completion rate of the Phase Three mission has already exceeded half.

Tom is still very formidable!

But now is not the time to celebrate.

"Watch the rhythm, watch the rhythm!"

Ashley Young places his hand on Tang Ye's shoulder, shouting instructions loudly.

Suddenly hit by a Manchester United counter-attack, Juventus will surely try to regain control of the match next.

After all, their counter-attacking strength is not poor either!

"Glory Glory Man United!"

"Glory Glory..."

The Manchester United fans know how hard-won this lead is and have already begun pressing against Juventus.

Head coach Allegri paces on the sidelines, occasionally shouting a few words to the players on the field.

Being behind is not too big a problem.

According to Allegri's judgment, as long as they maintain their current state, it is only a matter of time before Juventus equalizes the score.

"Currently, it seems the trailing score has not affected the Juventus players too much."

"Yes, this is a very clear distinction between strong teams and average ones; look at the Juventus forwards—even knowing they are behind, their passing among the forwards remains unhurried."

Huff huff!

The opponent playing possession in the midfield is extremely uncomfortable for Tang Ye.

Continuously pressing the opponent in the midfield is not something he likes to do!

"I've got it!"

Bang!

Seizing the opportunity to make a tackle, but Khedira does not let Tang Ye succeed.

Passed to Barzagli.

Barzagli sends a long pass forward to Higuain!

Using the chance to control the ball, Higuain directly flicks it to Mandzukic on the left wing.

Mandzukic shoots!

Mandzukic's shot is blocked by Smalling.

Juventus still has not scored!

"Press, press!"

Ten Hag shouts loudly.

"Marcus, Rodri, press, press!"

Several Juventus defenders have the ability to send long passes, so the forwards must press continuously!

Against a team like Juventus, you cannot give them too many chances, or you will definitely regret it.

"Damn..."

Tang Ye wipes the sweat from his forehead with his sleeve.

He suddenly regrets wearing a long-sleeved jersey.

The pace of this match is truly fast!

After 20 minutes, the backend displays some statistics for both teams.

Manchester United led Juventus by one corner kick, indicating they had launched more counterattacks than Juventus.

But in terms of possession, Manchester United was lagging significantly.

It had already dropped by 35%!

Players from both sides were gradually finding their rhythm, and the pace of the match was accelerating.

Tang Ye received the ball slightly left of center, with Rashford closing in.

Pass the ball to Rashford, then run past him, aiming for the left-wing byline!

Just as Tang Ye neared his position, Rashford played a through ball.

Manchester United executed a slow-paced one-two pass in the attacking third; Tang Ye faced De Sciglio one-on-one on the byline.

Dribbling with the outside of his foot, he slowly compressed the opponent's defensive line!

Feinting as if intending to dribble past, Tang Ye suddenly pushed the ball to Rodri, who was making a run.

Rodri passed it back to Rashford!

Boom!

Rashford shot toward the far corner!

Buffon parried the ball away!

"I got it, I got it!"

Mata shouted loudly, sprinting to the landing spot to control the ball, then immediately took another shot.

Buffon scrambled up from the ground at light speed, extending his arms to make his second save.

But this time, he still failed to hold onto the ball.

Tang Ye's eyes lit up, and he shouted Martial's name loudly.

"Anthony!"

With a gentle header in front of the goal, Martial successfully scored.

"Ahh!!!!"

"Oh my god!"

"Amidst the chaos in the penalty area, Manchester United ultimately scored!"

2:0!

Still 2:0, just like 25 minutes ago!

Manchester United had secured a perfect start to the day!

Standing on the left wing, waiting for Martial.

Okay, Martial is coming!

Tang Ye matched Martial's rhythm.

3, 2, 1!

Jump!

Live match report from Check Dongqiu Di: Buffon makes two consecutive saves; amidst chaos in the penalty area, Martial scores with a header; Manchester United leads Juventus 2:0 for a dream start.

【Invincible!】

【Truly fierce, damn it; this season's Manchester United is on a completely different level than last season's.】

【Rashford? More like Ranaldo!】

To be honest, Manchester United's luck today was a bit too good, though their strength was certainly indispensable.

2:0!

This scoreline sent Manchester United fans in the stands and in the live stream into a frenzy, while Allegri was panicking badly.

"Steady, steady!"

They really couldn't give Manchester United another scoring opportunity.

Otherwise, Juventus would truly explode today!

"Haha!"

The Manchester United players on the bench high-fived in celebration, yet Fan Fan Dejiahe's expression was not particularly good.

The reason was that, based on the data, Juventus and Manchester United were playing similarly, with Juventus even performing slightly better.

But why was the scoreline a two-goal lead for Manchester United?

It wasn't because Manchester United had dominated Juventus, but because Manchester United seized their chances while Juventus failed to do so.

And Juventus possessed strikers capable of converting chances, more than one at that; this was precisely what Fan Fan Dejiahe was currently worried about.

After all, the problems in Manchester United's defensive line were still somewhat obvious!

As the clock hit the 38th minute, Manchester United regained a bit of possession, but Juventus had also found their way to play this match.

Higuain, Mandzukic, and Isco formed a curved pressing trio in the attacking third, successfully limiting Manchester United's ball distribution.

Rodri passed back to Smalling.

But at that very moment, Higuain emerged from who-knows-where and intercepted the ball with a single touch.

"Damn!"

Realizing the situation was turning dangerous, Tang Ye began accelerating his retreat.

Sliding tackle in front of Higuain!

Tang Ye wanted to block Higuain's shot, but this was actually a feint.

Higuain's actual intention was to set up a pass for Mandzukic on the left.

"Wow!!"

Mandzukic!

Bang!

A powerful shot was delivered; De Gea leaped out to make the save.

But Mandžukić's shot flew past the very tips of De Gea's fingers.

"This one's in!"

"Mandžukić's wonder goal; Juventus pulls one back!"

Having scored, the Juventus players began their celebration.

Rodri was filled with self-blame, while Tang Ye stood helplessly with hands on hips.

Pah!

He spat a mouthful of saliva onto the grass.

Damn it!

The coordination among Juventus's three forwards was simply too excellent!

How on earth are we supposed to defend against this!

"Juventus!"

Bang bang!

"Juventus!"

Bang bang!

The Juventus fans who had traveled from afar sent up cheers for their team.

Adjusting his mindset, Tang Ye walked over and clapped hands with Rodri: "It's alright, Rod, it's alright, it's alright."

He remembered Captain Ashley Young saying that a team's mistakes should be borne by the team.

Rodri needed to reflect on his mistake, but what the eleven Manchester United players on the field needed to do next was simply play good football.

Winning this match was now the most important thing!

In the East Stand, Tang Tang Zhengxiong stood together with countless Manchester United fans.

Tom's Dad gripped his own shirt tightly with both hands.

The pace of the match was fast, making Tang Tang Zhengxiong extremely nervous.

"Come on, Tang Ye..."

"Damn it, Valencia, pass the f***ing ball! Can't you see that huge open space!"

Tang Tang Zhengxiong clutching his head.

A mistake.

Greedy for a better view, he had bought seats below the chairman's box.

Actually, he should have bought seats in the lowest tier of the stands.

Only then could he direct the Manchester United players on the field!

Yes, using the not-particularly-impressive English he learned while bragging to the British!

The live camera focused on Tang Tang Zhengxiong, and Zhan Jun immediately identified him.

"Tang Tang Zhengxiong, that's Tang Ye's father!"

"Just like Teacher Zhan Jun, he's a Liwupu fan, haha!"

【Father of Ultron! This match is surely won now.】

【In matches where Tang Ye's father is supervising from the stands, Tang Ye has never lost a single one.】

【It's you, Tang Zhengxiong!】

【Feels like Juventus is gaining momentum; isn't Manchester United done for?】

During first-half stoppage time, Mata was fouled to the ground.

Manchester United had intended to use this opportunity to launch a set-piece attack, but a miscommunication in body language between Tang Ye and Smalling instead gifted Juventus a chance.

"It's Mandžukić again!"

Fortunately, Manchester United had specifically positioned Valencia deep to provide cover, so Juventus failed to create a one-on-one situation.

Valencia blocked Mandžukić's position!

Slap!

A shot from outside the penalty area was fired; De Gea dropped to his knees and caught the ball.

"Phew..."

Ten Hag exhaled deeply, shaking his head.

"Beep, beep beep!!!"

The first half ended.

A blessing in disguise, Manchester United had preserved their advantage from the first half!

Tang Ye squatted on the pitch, gasping for breath in great gulps.

It was hard to imagine being this exhausted after only 48 minutes of play.

This match was truly difficult to play!

"Come on!"

Ashley Young reached out and pulled Tang Ye up from the ground.

"It's not over yet, Tom; don't stay squatting."

Tang Ye was exhausted; he could let his teammates know he was tired, or let the coach know, so the tactics could be slightly adjusted based on Tang Ye's stamina.

But he could not let the opponents know he was exhausted!

If the Juventus players found out that Tang Ye was struggling to hold on...

Hiss!

One dare not imagine what kind of targeting Tom will face in the second half!

……

(End of Chapter)