The second half brought renewed intensity from both teams, with Wolfsburg pushing forward in search of a goal while maintaining their tactical focus on limiting his influence. The match became more open and physical, creating opportunities for the kind of creativity that thrived in chaotic situations if he could adapt his new physicality to the demands of the moment.
The breakthrough came gradually, through small moments of successful adaptation that built confidence and familiarity with his evolving body.
A successful turn in the 52nd minute, executed with the longer stride that his new height provided. A defensive header in the 55th minute that his additional reach made possible. Each successful action helped bridge the gap between his football intelligence and his physical reality.
