That seemingly fairytale moment has become a magical highlight in the arduous journey of Auckland City, an amateur football team in a playground full of famous names in world football.
Before the match with Boca Juniors, Auckland City had suffered two bitter defeats with a score of 0-10 against Bayern Munich and 0-6 against Benfica.
In that situation, Gray's goal in the final round of the group stage, helping the team draw 1-1, was not only a consolation but also a symbol of the effort and courage of a humble team.
“We come from a small town, very far away from the top level, so it was a dream come true,” Gray said. It was a dream come true, in a match where Boca Juniors had 41 shots to Auckland’s three.
Auckland City is not a professional football team. Their team includes teachers, delivery drivers and craftsmen.
Many of them have to pay their own way to participate in the tournament, while still maintaining their day jobs. They play not for fame or huge salaries, but for their passion for football.
After the match, coach Paul Posa expressed his pride in his team. “You cannot imagine what we have faced. Our club is small but has a big heart. A point today is a well-deserved reward for all those who have worked behind the scenes.”
He also insisted that the belief remained strong, despite the heavy losses. “I always believed we would score. We worked very hard. We had a bit of luck in the first half, but I knew it would come.”
For Gray, the Club World Cup is not only a top-level competition experience but also a milestone after four years of preparation with the team where he is attached to.
“It was a very difficult journey. We had some results that were not as expected, but I am very happy for the whole team. I think we deserved it,” he said.
After his brief stint at the Club World Cup, Gray will return to his familiar teaching job, facing a pile of ungraded exams over the summer break.
From the international spotlight back to the humble classroom, it was a move both humble and memorable. A living testament that football is not just about superstars but also where ordinary people can create extraordinary moments.
Auckland City left the tournament with a single point, but it was more than just a result. It was an inspirational story, a belief that in football, dreams do exist for those who work hard and never give up.
Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/the-thao/chuyen-co-tich-cua-ong-giao-new-zealand-ghi-ban-vao-luoi-ga-khong-lo-argentina-145979.html
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