2. Isagi Yoichi Hesitates to Score and Chooses to Pass to Kunigami

In the tense moments near the end of the second half, Bachira and Isagi teamed up to secure Team Z’s only goal. Bachira was confident that Team X’s overwhelming 5-0 lead would loosen their defensive formation. Despite being tightly marked by three Team X players at the center of the field, Bachira managed to deliver a long pass to Isagi, who was boldly running outside of Team X’s penalty box.

However, just as Isagi prepared to strike the ball toward the Team X goalkeeper, Barou suddenly appeared out of nowhere and blocked his path with remarkable agility. This forced Isagi to cancel his shot attempt. At the same time, Kunigami, who was being closely guarded by a Team X defender, called for a pass from Isagi. Raichi, who was unmarked and running freely nearby, also eagerly called for the ball.

Although Isagi was briefly tempted to challenge Barou and attempt the shot himself, he had a gut feeling that a spectacular goal could only come from Kunigami’s feet. Trusting his instinct, Isagi passed the ball to Kunigami.

The players of Team X doubted Kunigami’s ability to score from outside the penalty box. However, to their surprise, long-distance shooting was Kunigami’s specialty. With a stunning display of skill, Kunigami fired a powerful long-range shot and successfully scored, breaking through Team X’s net. The match between Team X and Team Z ended with an impressive final score of 5-1, securing a decisive victory for Team X.

After the match, Raichi angrily grabbed Isagi by the collar, furious that Isagi had chosen to pass to Kunigami. In Raichi’s opinion, his position was closer and better than Kunigami’s, who was being marked by a central defender.

Isagi admitted honestly that he was confused by his own decision—his body seemed to move automatically, passing the ball to Kunigami, even though he had originally intended to take the shot himself. Raichi’s frustration only grew as he couldn’t believe Isagi’s “foolish” explanation of wanting to shoot but ending up passing instead.