Fiorentina secured a thrilling 2-1 win over AC Milan on Sunday, thanks in large part to David De Gea incredible penalty-saving prowess.
The former Manchester United goalkeeper made two breathtaking stops to deny Tammy Abraham and Theo Hernandez, handing his side a crucial victory.
Yacine Adli opened the scoring for Fiorentina with a beautifully struck low shot from the edge of the box, which speared off the far post and into the net just before halftime.
However, former Chelsea star Christian Pulisic equalized with a stunning volley in the 60th minute, but Albert Gudmundsson’s 73rd-minute strike sealed the win for the hosts.
Fiorentina vs AC Milan Serie A Match Marked By Penalty Saves
Fiorentina vs AC Milan match was marked by a series of dramatic penalty saves, starting with AC Milan keeper Mike Maignan saving Moise Kean’s 22nd-minute spot-kick.
However, De Gea stole the show with his incredible saves from Tammy Abraham and Hernandez, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s top goalkeepers.
Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding the penalties awarded during the match sparked heated debate.
The match’s tense finale saw Fiorentina coach Raffaele Palladino sent off for protesting, while Milan’s Hernandez received a red card in added time for arguing with the referee.
Fiorentina Manager Palladino Showered Praises On David De Gea
Fiorentina manager Palladino praised David de Gea for his outstanding performance in saving two penalties against AC Milan, emphasizing that he is still a formidable player and a world-class talent.
Palladino said: “He’s a true champion, a role model for all.” He added, “We are grateful for his skills and professionalism every day.”
AC Milan Manager Fonseca Slams Penalty Decisions
AC Milan manager Marco Fonseca lambasted the refereeing decisions, stating, “This isn’t football. Football is about contact, and a mere touch shouldn’t be enough to award a penalty.”
Fonseca’s frustration echoed the sentiments of many other football managers, highlighting the need for consistency in penalty calls.
Other Premier League Goal Keepers In Heroic Penalty Savings
Interestingly, it was not the only game over the weekend featuring former Premier League goalkeeper David De Gea showcasing his penalty-saving skills.
Paulo Gazzaniga, who previously played for Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton, and Fulham, made an impressive three penalty saves in a LaLiga match between Girona and Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, October 6.
The Argentine keeper thwarted three separate Athletic players in a thrilling home game that Girona ultimately won 2-1, with the winning goal coming from a penalty in stoppage time.
Also, just a few days earlier, Gazzaniga also saved a penalty in a Champions League match, although Feyenoord ended up winning 3-2 on Wednesday, October 2nd.
David De Gea Impact In Fiorentina’s Win Boosts European Hopes
The triumph over AC Milan propels Fiorentina up the Serie A table, reigniting their European ambitions.
With De Gea between the sticks, the Tuscan side will be confident of securing more crucial wins in their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
De Gea joined Fiorentina following his exit from Old Trafford as a free agent after his contract expired in July 2023.
The Spaniard became United’s seventh all-time appearance maker, having played in 545 games in all competitions for the Red Devils.
During his time at Manchester United, De Gea won a Premier League title, an FA Cup, two League Cups, three Community Shields and a second Europa League.
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