However, since Ranocchia was forced off due to physical exhaustion in the first half of extra time, Manchester City with ten men found themselves in an extremely difficult situation.
They had to cover more ground to make up for the personnel deficit.
Especially Tang Long, who replaced Ranocchia in the defensive midfield position, bore a heavy responsibility!
He gave it his all, exerting every ounce of energy, running tirelessly on the field.
Sweat had already soaked through his jersey, sparkling under the intense stadium lights, with salt grains crusted on his neck.
Though exhausted, he understood the importance of the defensive midfielder position, which compelled him to keep running.
What to do when stamina runs out?
Being one player down, he couldn't afford such thoughts; he would hold on for as long as he could!
If he didn't extend his coverage, it would be easy for a passer like Kroos to seize the opportunity and break through the center.
