C15 Selfinvestment

Elisha was well aware that his longtime friend Evo had always been supportive of him. When the Total Soccer program was initially proposed, a multitude of people were eager to get involved.

It was Evo's staunch backing that enabled Elisha to become the director of the program. Of course, Evo had ruffled quite a few feathers in the process. Later on, with Evo's assistance, Elisha's team secured the most resources on the channel.

Yet, by the end of 2004, the Vispheno team's defeat in the group stage of the qualifying matches for the German Cup led to their elimination, dashing hopes for the 2006 tournament. This left the nation and its fans deeply disillusioned with the national football team.

Consequently, the staff of sports programs like table tennis and tennis, where Vispheno traditionally excelled, began to disparage football programs, including Total Soccer, impacting their reputation and reach.

In Elisha's view, Lucian represented the future of Vispheno football. He aimed to invigorate the fans and the national football team with coverage on Lucian, yet he inadvertently overlooked Evo's perspective.

Unlike Elisha, a dedicated media professional, Evo was part of the television station's management and an official within the system. He had no issues with supporting his friend's programming endeavors within his capabilities.

However, Evo had to weigh the potential repercussions. While he wasn't against interviewing Lucian, he was mindful of the fact that Lucian had been back in Vispheno for eighteen years without any media appearances. Evo suspected Lucian might be averse to the media.

Considering the vastness of Onaginia, the challenge wasn't just finding Lucian. If, after expending significant effort and resources, Lucian declined the interview, what would be their next move?

Whispers had already begun circulating within the station. A misstep with this situation could jeopardize their standing.

Elisha had some inkling of his friend's concerns. Although he seldom engaged in office politics, he wasn't oblivious to the dynamics at play within the station.

Seeing Evo in such a predicament, Elisha decided not to push further and returned to his program team.

"Everyone, gather around. We need to have a meeting," he announced, summoning his team with a grave tone.

Everyone is aware of the current state of football in our country, so I won't belabor the point. I've just received breaking news: Lucian, the former La Liga head coach, is currently in Onaginia. However, the details of his situation are still unclear.

I've already reached out to our superiors, but as you're all aware, the football program is facing challenges, and my request to dispatch an interview team to Onaginia to locate Lucian was denied. However, they did approve our request to interview him.

I've decided to make the trip to Onaginia myself to find Lucian, but we can't dip into the program's funds for this interview. I'll have to cover the expenses out of my own pocket. Is anyone willing to join me?

No sooner had I finished speaking than the responses came pouring in.

"Director Elisha, count me in!"

"I'm in! Take me with you!"

"I want to go too! Director Elisha, please include me!"

Seeing the eager faces of my dedicated team members brought a smile to my face.

"Unfortunately, we can't all go. We need to leave some staff at the station. I'll cover the travel expenses, but you'll need to pay for your own food and lodging."

"This interview, while not opposed by our superiors, is still an independent venture by our team. That means we'll have to handle the equipment on our own without access to the station's larger gear."

"I'll need to reserve my funds for renting equipment on-site. Furthermore, we're not sure how long we'll need to stay in Onaginia. Discuss amongst yourselves who will go and who will stay behind. Once you've decided, give me the list, and I'll arrange the tickets."

With that, I left the room to call home and ask my wife for the money.

"Have you made a decision?"

After enduring a round of criticism from my wife, I successfully secured the funds and returned to the group.

"We've made our decision, Director Elisha. Here's the list of people we've agreed upon. Please take a look."

I took the list, gave it a quick glance, nodded in approval, and set out to purchase the tickets.

In a makeshift changing room, once a classroom, Lucian watched his players with a hint of a smile.

"You all performed admirably in the first half. Truly excellent work."

During the first half of the match against Sunny Coast Institute, Sandalwood School's team was constantly on the defensive. Despite employing a dense 451 formation, they still conceded a goal, leaving the young players feeling disheartened.

"Lucian, it's so frustrating," one player lamented.

"I know," another agreed. "They're dominating us. If we keep this up, we're going to lose."

"Isn't there anything else we can do?"

Lucian observed the kids, their spirits dampened, and gently patted each of their heads in turn.

"Show them your offensive skills in the second half," Lucian encouraged. "They've exhausted much of their energy with their relentless attacks in the first half, and they've already made two substitutions."

"Once you're back on the field, launch into the attack immediately. Suren, Arnold, you two barely expended any energy in the first half. You shouldn't have any stamina issues, right?"

"No problem, Lucian!" they responded together.

"Great," Lucian continued. "Abram, it's clear they've targeted you. They know you've scored four goals in a match before, so they've kept two players on you at all times, identifying you as a major threat."

"Since they're so focused on you, let's exploit that. Keep moving and look for attacking opportunities as soon as the game restarts."

"When Abram gets a chance, pass him the ball. But Abram, remember, if you're not sure, pass it on. Don't take the ball lightly."

"Your only job is to threaten their goal and draw their attention. Naturally, if a solid chance arises, feel free to take the shot."

"Arnold, you're this match's secret weapon. Your speed is crucial for scoring. While Abram draws their focus, I want you to use your pace to find openings for surprise attacks. Suren will back you up. You two have a good rapport, and I have faith in you both."