Zion Suzuki and Rafael Leao were involved in an interesting exchange before AC Milan’s second goal against Parma on Saturday night.
As La Gazzetta dello Sport recall, it was a perfect penalty from Leao. Suzuki guessed the right way, but there was so much power and precision on the strike that the Japan international didn’t even end up getting near it.
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The most interesting part, however, happened shortly after the penalty was awarded. Massimiliano Allegri shouted from the sidelines ‘Either Rafa shoots or Nkunku shoots’, and the Portuguese took the ball. The goalkeeper then attempted a psychological trick.
What Suzuki said
It’s clear from the images. Suzuki looks at Leao and extends his right arm, then speaks. His lips aren’t readable, but the meaning is clear: “Put it here.” Leao accepts the provocation and hits the ball across his body (rather than trying to place it the other side).
Then, instead of running to celebrate, he stays close to the spot and looks at Suzuki. Matteo Gabbia, as with the yellow card he avoided for not removing his shirt against Fiorentina, is the first to understand. He ran to Leao, hugged him and got between the two to cool things down.
Was it over? Not quite. Leao, walking backwards toward midfield, takes the satisfaction of saying a few words to Suzuki. It was very similar to Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s penalty against Julio Cesar in 2011-12. The message is clear: you tried, but it didn’t work. They’ll see each other again.
Great to see Rafa getting some swag back
I’m not sure why Leao took exception to Suzuki doing that. That’s a pretty common thing for keepers to do from youth levels up to pros.
Doesn’t every team expect their keeper to try to play mind games with a PK taker?
Does anyone else’s blood pressure go up when you see Leao step up to take a OK? Because mine has both times so far…
yes of course , the way he takes them , never looks convincing,but this onme vs parma was so professional i trust him 99% now.
I’m Always afraid he skies it just from the way he dribbles and his technique 😬
One of the best penalty I have seen in recent time, precision and power and accuracy from Milan’s best, haters can argue with there keyboards.