"Group winners, not just qualifiers," Michel announced in the tunnel.
His words reverberated off the concrete walls as Monaco players passed, their movements radiating the loose-limbed satisfaction of men who had accomplished something historic. Steam rose from their bodies in the December air, sweat cooling rapidly as adrenaline began to fade.
Adebayor clutched the match ball against his chest, his grip protective despite his teammates' playful attempts to wrest it away. The leather sphere symbolized validation—proof that his breakthrough was not a fluke but a hard-earned achievement on Europe's grandest stage.
"Keep it safe," Giuly advised, giving the young striker's shoulder a friendly slap. "Your first European hat-trick deserves a special place."
