There are moments in soccer that linger lengthy after the ultimate whistle — moments that take a look at not only a participant’s ability, however their character. For Christian Pulisic, Sunday night time in Turin was a type of moments. Milan’s conflict with Juventus resulted in frustration, a goalless draw that may simply have been a victory had the American transformed from the penalty spot. The miss, uncommon and expensive, denied the Rossoneri not solely three factors but additionally the possibility to reclaim high spot in Serie A. But, it was what got here after the sport that outlined Pulisic’s response: an apology and a nine-word promise that left followers each heartbroken and impressed.
The 0-0 draw on the Allianz Stadium was a tightly contested affair. Milan dominated possession and created the higher probabilities, however Juventus’ defensive resilience and a scarcity of medical ending left Stefano Pioli’s males with only a single level. As Corriere della Sera noticed, “the staff that leaves the Allianz Stadium with regrets is undoubtedly Milan,” highlighting how the Rossoneri had been the aspect that almost all deserved to win.
When Pulisic stepped as much as take the penalty halfway via the second half, the stress was palpable. A aim would seemingly have sealed the sport, however as a substitute, the ball soared over the bar — a second that froze Milan’s hearts. For a participant who has been almost flawless since arriving at San Siro, it was an uncharacteristic lapse.
Including to the narrative, La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Massimiliano Allegri, Milan’s coach, couldn’t convey himself to look at the penalty. “He shot with a flat foot? What? I advised him not to try this,” Allegri was overheard saying to his assistant after listening to the Juventus followers erupt. However moments later, in a gesture of management, the skilled supervisor applauded and even hugged Pulisic when he was substituted, reassuring him that the miss wouldn’t outline him.
Milan’s penalty woes proceed
The miss wasn’t nearly one participant — it mirrored a broader concern inside Milan. Because the begin of 2024, the Crimson and Blacks have missed seven of their 13 Serie A penalties, a staggering 54% failure charge, the worst in Europe. Much more regarding, 5 of the final seven penalties have been missed by 4 totally different gamers, highlighting an ongoing disaster from the spot.
It’s a sample that has price the membership dearly. Every miss has are available tight video games, the place the distinction between victory and disappointment was as skinny as a single aim. Because the stats present, in matches the place the membership failed from the spot, it has collected only one level mixed.
Christian Pulisic misses a penalty through the Serie A match between Juventus FC and AC Milan.
Pulisic’s nine-word promise that melted hearts
For a lot of athletes, a missed penalty is likely to be adopted by silence. However not for Christian Pulisic. The morning after the draw, he took to social media to deal with Milan followers straight, acknowledging his mistake and taking full accountability.
“It kills me to disappoint this membership,” he wrote in a heartfelt put up that resonated with supporters throughout the globe. Then got here the 9 phrases that will make headlines: “I’ll work 10 occasions more durable to make issues proper.”
That single line captured every part about Pulisic’s character — his accountability, his humility, and his unwavering dedication. The response from followers was overwhelmingly constructive. Moderately than anger, what poured in was help. Messages of encouragement flooded the membership’s pages, reminding him that his season to this point has been nothing in need of spectacular.
