No one could stop them ~ A.R

~ thirty five ~

Olivia's pov

After so many training sessions, the day had finally arrived.

The 6th July.

We were playing against Austria in the first match of the euros at old Trafford.

After arriving and doing interviews, we settle down in the changing rooms before walking out for a pitch inspection.

The stadium was amazing. I mean, I'd played at old Trafford before but playing for Man City, of course.

It was sold out tonight as well, it was going to be amazing.

The lineups had been announced by Sarina.

Mary was in goal. Lucy, Millie, Leah and Rach were in defence. In midfield, we had G and Kiera. Upfront, we had me, Ellen, fran and Lauren.

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Putting on that captain arm band, knowing your captaining your county in a home euros, was daunting, but one of the best things you could experience.

I felt so many emotions. Pride, worry, excitement, happiness.

Walking out of the tunnel was a similar feeling.

Although I had my game face on, I was so excited on the inside.

We take a team picture and sing the national anthem before getting into our positions on the pitch.

During the national anthem, I had to close my eyes.

My whole family were sat right in front of me, just above the subs bench, and I just knew that if i looked at them, I would cry.

My mum was already crying, so that would set me off.

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The first half kicks off, and loads of shots are taken from both sides.

I took a shot but it goes wide by an inch or two.

However, in the 16', Fran crosses it in to the box for me and I kick it into the goal. I start to celebrate but just look back and just make out that an Austrian defender attempts to kick it out, which she does, it hits the crossbar and goes out.

The referee confirms it was in fact a goal and I throw my hands in the air.

Everyone comes and hugs me.

"Kiddo, your something else you are." El tells me. "We're gonna win the euros because of you. I can feel it."

"If we do win it, it will be because we all did it." I correct her

"Such a captainy thing to say." Ellen ruffles the top of my head

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Just before half time, Lauren has a shot but it's saved by Manu Zinsberger, the Austrian goalkeeper, who's also one of arsenals goalkeepers.

The first half finishes 1-0 to us.

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The second half starts and three changes are made in the 64'.

Fran Kirby off for Ella Toone
Beth Mead off for Chloe Kelly
Ellen White off for Alessia Russo

After several shots, we still don't manage to score again and neither do they.

As soon as the final whistle blew, sweet Caroline started playing throughout the entire stadium.

I shook hands with the Austrian players and hugged all my teammates.

"Great job, liv. You're doing amazing at being captain. I knew you would be a good captain. Well done, Olivia." Sarina tells me and pats my back.

"Hi there, baby." Less smiles as I unexpectedly jump on her back.

"Hi, my love." I kiss her cheek

"You're wanted for an interview, livvy." Leah comes and tells me

"Okay, tell them I'll be a minute." I tell Lee and she walks away.

"Why are you not going now?" Less asks

"Because I want to at least spend a minute with my wife after we just played in a euros game." I explain. "And I also want to kiss you."

"Go on then, what are you waiting for?" Less jokes and we both kiss. "Go do your interview now. They're waiting for you."

I do my interview and make my way to the changing rooms where everyone was celebrating and dancing.

This was just the beginning and I had a very good feeling about the Euros.