The match ended in a 2-0 defeat, a disappointing result that highlighted the work that still needed to be done. But for Mateo, it was another step forward, another confirmation of his growing stature in the world of football.
As he flew back to Dortmund, his mind was already turning to the next challenge. The defeat to the Netherlands was a minor blip, a footnote in a season that was still full of promise. The Bundesliga title may have been gone, but the Champions League was still there for the taking.
He had returned to his national team as a hero, a player who had conquered Europe with his club. He was returning to his club as a leader, a player who had shouldered the responsibility of his country.
He was no longer just a boy wonder. He was a man. A warrior. A leader.
And he was ready for Real Madrid.
---
