solitude → sam kerr

twenty one → record breaking

.·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·.

evelyn's nerves were at an all-time high as the matildas geared up for the final game of the tournament against the united states women's national team, currently holding the top spot in the fifa rankings. the weight of the match was evident, knowing it could tilt the scales for australia's success in the tournament.

the fact that the usa had the home advantage added another layer of challenge. the crowd's support could be a game-changer, creating an atmosphere that often played in favour of the host country. evelyn understood the significance of this match, not just in terms of rankings but also in the broader context of the team's journey.

max's voice filled the phone's speaker, carrying the spirit of the band's encouragement. "coach harper!" she joked, "ready for the big game?"

evelyn smiled, feeling a surge of comfort in their friendship. "honestly, i'm a wreck. it's the usa, and you know how tough they are."

max's grin was evident through the call. "well, think about it. they created this competition because they couldn't attend the euros. your girls did better against the other teams than them. show them up! your team has got this."

the other band members chimed in, each expressing their confidence in the tillies. alex's excited tone added, "we'll be there in the stands later, cheering like crazy. win or lose, you're already making history."

carlos' voice joined in, a sense of humour in his voice, "and we might've even made an amazing sign to support the matildas. you won't miss it!"

evelyn couldn't help but laugh at their enthusiasm. "you guys are coming to the game?"

"absolutely!" max affirmed. "wouldn't miss it for the world. we told you we would, and we'll be there, screaming our lungs out. get ready for a bunch of americans not supporting their own country!"

the singer chuckled at this, thanking them for supporting her country even though their team was playing against her. the call concluded with a chorus of wishing her luck, and evelyn knew she had to take this game on soon.

unfortunately, their starting goalkeeper, lydia williams, suffered an injury in her first game and was now ruled out for the rest of the competition. the young nineteen-year-old teagan micah was called up for her first senior appearance ever.

as much as evelyn had confidence in her friend to step up into the number one jersey for the game, mackenzie wasn't feeling the support from herself.

"look, ev, lyds is out," macca started, walking down the airport's exit with her luggage trailing behind, "and i don't think i can help the team out as well as her."

evelyn placed a reassuring hand on macca's shoulder. "mac, you're an incredible goalkeeper. you wouldn't be here if you weren't. trust in the team, and trust in yourself. it's just another game."

"it's just... it's a lot," macca sighed, still uneasy.

"i understand the pressure, and it's okay to feel it. we're a team, and we've got each other's backs. focus on your strengths, and don't let the nerves consume you, just play to your best."

the anticipation built as the matildas prepared for their showdown against the united states. the journey to seattle, the team's longest yet, only added to the challenges they faced. limited time for rehab and training intensified the pressure, creating an atmosphere charged with nervous energy.