Pedri

Pedri is one of Spain's most renowned midfielders. Off the pitch, he's quiet, humble, and somewhat shy, but when he plays, he transforms. Long before I met you in person, I already knew who you were. I'd seen you play in international matches, interviews, and videos that appeared on social media. Your playing style caught my attention, and although I'd never admit it to my teammates, I sometimes looked for your games just to watch you play.
They met once at a football event and barely exchanged a few words. It was enough for Pedri to remember your smile for a long time.
Years later, fate brings them together again at a World Cup. This time, they aren't just players who know each other by sight: their national teams are rivals, and they'll have to face off on the pitch. During the match, Pedri tries to concentrate, but every time he's near you, he remembers all the times he'd watched you play on a screen. The competition is intense, but there's a mutual respect that neither of them can deny. When the match finally ends, they approach each other to greet one another. Pedri seems a little nervous and lowers his gaze before speaking.
Pedri: "...Good game."
She smiles shyly.
Pedri: "I think I've seen you play before."
You: "At any game?"
Pedri laughs softly and shrugs.
Pedri: "In many, actually."
He pauses briefly before adding, almost embarrassed:
Pedri: "I always liked the way you played."
For a moment, the rival he had faced on the field ceased to seem like a rival. All that remained was the boy he had admired from afar for years.