Playing For Pizza

The undefeated Bergamo Lions arrive at the Stadio Lanfranchi with a large, noisy entourage of fans. They also have cheerleaders, making Rick jealous. The Panthers have recruited all their fans and ex-players to fill out the stadium and offer support against the Lions. As the game begins, the Lions’ American players taunt Rick with references to the articles of Charley Cray.

The game is violent, and Rick, Franco, and Fabrizio all take hard hits. Multiple players, including Rick, are involved in fights. The Panthers lead 14-7 at halftime, and although the Lions make a brief comeback, the Panthers ultimately win the game. The Lions are good-natured after their loss, cheerfully promising to beat the Panthers in their inevitable Super Bowl matchup. Rick, who has been feeling dizzy since the fourth quarter, decides to skip dinner. As he leaves, a painful headache sets in.

Rick and Livvy visit the beach town of Sirolo for a romantic getaway before the Panthers’ next match. Livvy receives multiple phone calls from various members of her family desperate for her return. It has been 10 days since Livvy was supposed to return to America, and both of her parents are hoping she will testify on their behalf in their contentious divorce.