It had been a few days since Sam and Monica went out for coffee together. The texting back and forth in-between Sam's training sessions and Monica's album promotions has been fully accelerated, they would talk for hours and hours about the most random of things that didn't even matter but it felt like it was the most important thing in the world to each other. Monica's mind would spend every moment of every day thinking about Sam, her smile, her laugh, her eyes, you name it and it is guaranteed on her mind.
What Monica didn't know was that Sam was thinking about the exact same things, whilst she was stretching, whilst she was banging in goals in training drills, whilst she was drifting off the sleep. The team noticed Sam's sudden over-positive attitude, sure she was the enthusiastic team captain before but now there was not once a smile couldn't be seen on her face even if they were doing laps around the field, sprints for time, weight lifting etc. Her performance seemed to be at an all time high, this made them really question what she was hiding.
Denmark was going to be tough opponent for the girls but with the "never say die" attitude engraved into their brains they felt like they could beat anyone especially coming off a big win against Canada.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the soccer field, the Matildas gathered in the locker room, anticipation hanging in the air like a charged current. The hum of excitement mixed with the sound of cleats tapping against the tiled floor. Tony's voice echoed through the room, rallying the team.
"Alright girls, tonight's the night, first game of the knock out stages. Denmark's no pushover, but we've got the skills, the spirit, and the 'never say die' attitude. Let's show 'em what we're made of!" Tony's words reverberated, sparking a fire in the players' eyes.
Sam stepped forward, her voice steady but charged with determination. "We've trained hard for this, and we know each other's moves. Stick to the plan, trust your instincts, and let's make Australia proud!"
The locker room buzzed with unity as the players exchanged nods and encouraging words. They pulled on their green and gold jerseys, the colors of their nation, with a sense of pride. Each player laced up their cleats, the ritual of preparation filling the air with a sense of purpose.
Outside, the stadium roared with anticipation. The Matildas led by Sam walked with their heads held high into the pitch. Each national team lined up either side of the refs focusing their teams and singing their country's anthem. As per usual Sam let her eyes wander to the exact place she knew Monica would be.
The blonde haired girl already had her warm gaze casted onto Sam, a soft smile on her lips in admiration of the woman. Sam had to hold back the urge to smile and wave whilst anthems were being sung. At the conclusion of the photos and hand shaking Sam finally got her chance to send a bright smile and wave to the girl she loved most. Their interactions were cut short by the ref calling Sam for kick off.
The stadium erupted in a symphony of cheers as the Matildas kicked off against Denmark. The ball zipped across the field, players showcasing their skillful footwork. Caitlin Foord, nimble as ever, weaved through defenders, creating opportunities for Australia. In the 29th minute, the crowd erupted into jubilation as Foord unleashed a powerful strike, sending the ball soaring into the back of the net. Australia 1, Denmark 0.
The Matildas maintained their relentless pressure, with E-V-E orchestrating the midfield. The 40th minute brought another wave of excitement as Sam Kerr, a powerhouse forward, showcased her prowess. A precise cross found Kerr in the box, and with a perfectly timed header, she doubled Australia's lead. The crowd roared in approval, celebrating the Matildas' commanding 2-0 lead. She pulled her famous back flip before turning in Monica's direction sending her a hand heart high above her head which she sees Monica reciprocate, the number 20 painted in green and gold on her cheek.
As the game progressed, substitutions came into play. In the 60th minute, Sam Kerr, having left her mark on the match, made way for Mary Fowler. The crowd, appreciative of Kerr's contribution, showered her with a thunderous cheer. Fowler seamlessly integrated into the game, adding fresh energy to the Matildas' attack.
In the 70th minute, Hayley Raso electrified the crowd with a sensational goal. A swift counterattack caught Denmark off guard, and Raso expertly finished, securing Australia's dominance with a 3-0 lead. The stadium echoed with cheers and applause, the fans reveling in the Matildas' stellar performance.
As the final minutes ticked away, the Matildas maintained their composure, thwarting Denmark's attempts to claw back into the game. The referee's whistle pierced the air, signaling the end of the match. The scoreboard illuminated in favour of the Matildas, a resounding 3-0 victory that echoed the team's skill, teamwork, and the undeniable spirit of Australian soccer. The Matildas will be advancing to the quarter-finals of the World Cup on home soil.
As the girls walked around meeting their fans Sam came first to Monica.
"You did so good Sammy." Monica praised the girl.
"All for you, all for the country." Sam pulled Monica in by her waist connecting them into a hug. "I'll come back for you, gotta see some fans." Sam sent Monica a wink before moving towards a large crowd of screaming fans. When she finally did come back she held out her hands to a confused Monica.
"Take my hands, you're coming with me."
"Where?" Monica asked, curiosity lacing her voice.
"You're coming home with me, how does that sound?"
"Sounds amazing." The two were so close that if they moved even 5 cm forward they would kiss. Monica trust Sam placing her hands in the girls as Sam guided her over the barricade.
"There you go, see you're fine." Sam joked at the girls apprehension. "Let me go get my stuff and we can make a runner out of her huh?" Sam dragged the girl into the dressing room, her ears were instantly ringing with the loud music and cheering from the girls coming from all around.
She was pulled into a jump up and down dance by Ras who then passed her on to Macca. The girls went around in circles dancing and celebrating with each other. When Monica fell into Ellie her best friends eyes widened in shock.
"Moni what are you doing here?!"
"Uh, Sam is giving me a ride back to my uh hotel!" Monica was quick to lie, of course she felt guilty about it but they didn't want anyone knowing just yet, even if that meant Ellie.
"Ok!" The two were shouting over the music to talk to each other. The dancing continued until Tony came in to give them a final talk and congratulations before sending them off. Sam's hand latched onto Monica's practically dragging her out of the dressing rooms.
The car ride back to the hotel was short, the girls still made it like talking to each other was the last thing they would ever do. Now the hard part was sneaking in without anyone seeing Moni with Sam. They were almost caught by Kyra and Harper running away from Mini and Alanna, Caitlin & Macca filming their tiktoks but they made it unseen.
The girls were quick to change and hop into bed. The whole sleeping next to each other felt natural, they were so comfortable with each other. Both of them were so exhausted and this was rejuvenating. Once they were ready they played down ready for sleep.
"Good night Sammy."
"Good night Mona." The two fell into a long awaited instantly deep sleep.
Word Count: 1373
This one took awhile I had no motivation what so ever now that I can just sit at home instead of going to school lol. I'll try to get regular for you guys.
-Jade