The dormitory room was bathed in the soft glow of Lukas's laptop screen as the two roommates settled in for their evening routine.
It was September 3rd, 2013, and the euphoria of Dortmund's rise to the top of the Bundesliga table was still fresh in their minds.
The victory over Frankfurt three days earlier had not only secured three crucial points but had also announced to the football world that this young Dortmund side was a force to be reckoned with.
Lukas Piszczek's younger brother had become more than just a roommate to Mateo; he had evolved into a confidant, a cultural translator, and most importantly, a genuine friend who understood the unique pressures that came with being a professional footballer's family member.
Tonight, their ritual was familiar and comforting: watching football highlights, discussing tactics, and catching up on the day's news from across the football world.
