Quaresma's voice cut through the moment. "That's what he does even at this age, you give him one chance — and it's enough. He'll punish you."
Matthäus shook his head. "And now the game is wide open again."
On the touchline, Lukas stood there, still processing the instructions he had just been given.
The ball had gone in mid-conversation.
The noise around him surged.
Portugal celebrating.
Germany regrouping.
Nagelsmann turned back to him immediately.
A quick nod.
Decision made.
The board went up.
Double substitution.
Lukas for Sané.
Undav for Woltemade.
As Lukas stepped toward the touchline, the stadium reacted instantly.
A wave of applause.
Louder than expected.
Anticipation.
Expectation.
Matthäus' voice carried it perfectly.
"Finally," he said. "Here he comes."
Quaresma smiled slightly. "This is what everyone has been waiting for."
Lukas crossed the line, the number 21 visible on his back as he jogged into position.
