Argentinian goalkeeper Emi Martinez showcased his brilliance once again as he saved two penalties in Aston Villa’s Quarter-Final fixture against Lille. The 31-year-old was on the receiving end of constant boos from Lille’s home fans, but he did not let that affect him and produced a stunning performance to help Villa get into the Semis of the UEFA Conference League.
Emi Martinez was shown the yellow card twice during the game. However, the second one came during the penalty shootout and this prevented him from being sent off the pitch. After being heckled by the fans all game, Dibu had his moment when he saved the penalty of Lille midfielder Benjamin Andre. The save meant that the French club was knocked out of the Conference League and Martinez decided to add salt to their wounds by dancing in front of them.
The Villa keeper would have expected to get hostile treatment from the Lille fans as he was responsible for beating France in the 2022 World Cup Final. Just like the game yesterday, he produced scintillating saves in penalty shootouts during the Final. The French fans would not have forgotten the heartbreak he gave them and this led to the loud boos during the game.
His antics led to changes in the rules for a goalkeeper during a penalty shootout. Although he is not allowed to get off the line and intimidate his opponents anymore, Martinez’s presence between the sticks is enough for a player to be put on the spot.
Emi Martinez has the case for being the best keeper in the world
Emi Martinez’s journey has not been an ordinary one and although it took some time to take off, he is now one of the best keepers in the game. Just last week, the Argentinian produced a fantastic save with his leg to prevent Leandro Trossard from opening the scoring for Arsenal in the most recent Premier League game. His save could potentially have great implications in the title race that the Gunners are in this season.
His ability to play the ball from the back is also crucial to Aston Villa’s playing style. The Claret and Blues start their ball movement from the back and it requires Martinez to be comfortable on the ball. His presence has transcended the team and helped them become a formidable side in the league. Emi Martinez has prevented 4.6 goals in the PL this season, this puts him second behind Wolves Jose Sa. He also has 8 clean sheets which is the third best among goalkeepers in the PL.
Dibu is not your typical goalkeeper, he adds a lot of entertainment to the game by winding up opposition fans and intimidating players during crucial situations. He would not be someone you would want to face in a big game, but certainly someone you would want to have on your team on a big night.
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