The Best Home Game. The Best Reunion!
Thank you so much for your another great support! We won against Bayer 04 Leverkusen!
For the goal I scored in the very end of the first half -- the handling of the ball was exactly what I've imagined. I was really happy about the process and more importantly, leading the team to win.
But what's more -- scoring under the roof of 80,000+ supporters is definitely something! It has to be one of the best experiences one can ever encounter as a footballer!
Right before the match ended, I was substituted, and left the pitch. When I looked around -- the whole spectator was greeting me with a standing ovation with Shinji Chant. "ka~ga~wa~shin~ji~" echoed the stadium.
My face was a bit stiff at that time, and that's because the game was not over yet.
I thought it's not quite appropriate to make a big smile and leave the pitch. (To be honest, I was getting a bit bashful as well.)
No matter how I looked, I felt extremely happy and satisfying that all the supporters were welcoming, cheering me like this. My home, Dortmund, is the best!
Speaking of the "best", there was also the "best" reunion on the 12th and 13th.
The location -- Milan, Italy.
Some of you might have already guessed -- I met Yuto Nagatomo during my days off!
The last time I visited Italy was when I was in an elementary school -- playing a game in there.
I was never been to Milan so the entire trip was exciting!
Since Germany is still cold, I bought many knit clothes, and spent sometime sightseeing...
Its scenery is quite different from Germany and it was interesting.
As for a meal, Yuto took me to his favorite italian restaurant.
Regardless to say, it was soooo good!
With Yuto, I spent a lot of time, exchanging life in Milan/Dortmund. The trip went by so quick -- but it was surely an stimulating moment.
I'll try to make as many short trips as possible by utilizing my days off in the future.
With new and fresh experiences/mind -- now I'll prepare myself, and be the best of the best for the game against Berlin!
To wrap up this entry -- thank you so much for gracious Valentine messages on my website and Facebook! To all-- "Thank you very much!" With this power source from the supporters, I'll commit to score on the next game!
Ciao!
Shinji
PHOTO:
A "couple shot", right in front of famous Duomo di Milano, with Yuto!
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