The game flowed back and forth, with both teams creating chances and scoring goals. Aubameyang scored a spectacular overhead kick that drew gasps of admiration from the children, only to be immediately answered by a clever finish from one of the older boys, set up by a delightful through ball from Mateo.
Weidenfeller, the veteran goalkeeper, was having the time of his life, making dramatic saves and then pretending to be beaten by shots that were going wide anyway. He encouraged the children, shouted instructions, and celebrated their goals as if they were his own teammates.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the city, the game finally came to an end.
The final score was irrelevant something like 7-6 to the children, though nobody was really keeping track. It was a forgotten detail in a day of unforgettable moments. The players, professional and amateur alike, were exhausted, sweaty, and deliriously happy.
