The astonishing sequence of three consecutive penalty kicks missed by AS Roma during their Europa League match against Lille, which they ultimately lost 1-0, continues to dominate football discussions. The dramatic events unfolded last night on the pitch of the Stadio Olimpico.
Adding his voice to the debate is Francesco Graziani, a revered former Giallorossi striker from the 1980s. “For us Romanisti, that goal under the Curva Sud is truly cursed,” Graziani stated. “In the unforgettable 1984 Roma-Liverpool final, both Bruno Conti and I failed to convert our penalties from that very spot.”
What Unfolded:
In the final ten minutes of yesterday`s game, the improbable became reality. Three successive penalties, two of which were ordered to be retaken by the referee, all ended in failure. Dovbyk stepped up to the spot twice: first, his shot was poor, and then he was once again denied, despite referee Lambrechts` instructions for a retake due to encroachment and later because goalkeeper Ozer was off his line. The penalty duties then shifted to Soulé, but the perceived curse persisted: his attempt was also saved, marking the third consecutive stop for what felt like a night predetermined by fate.
