Italian penalty specialist Simone Zaza has issued a public apology through his Instagram account after his ridiculous penalty kick sailed over the bar against Germany.
Zaza, who was introduced in the 120th minute for Giorgio Chiellini, has become a viral sensation for his scampering approach to a spot-kick. It was an unorthodox technique that was ultimately humiliating from start to finish.
However, none of that is funny anymore.
A contrite and presumably shattered Zaza took to the keyboard to issue this heartfelt apology:
“Beyond apologizing, I must add that I’m sorry to have disappointed all the fans who celebrated, who believed in us and who ultimately suffered because of this team.”
“I take responsibility as I always have and move forward, knowing that we’ve made Italy proud. I would like to thank all the people who have supported me after this incident, understanding that I didn’t mean to mess up like I did. I must emphasis that,” Zaza continued.
REVEALED: Simone Zaza's heatmap vs Germany last night. #ITA pic.twitter.com/TnpfHDgsvV
— BBC Sporf (@BBCSporf) July 3, 2016
“I’m also a fan of the national team so in addition to being disappointed, sad and angry with myself, I am proud that we have helped to rekindle the country’s passion for football,” said Zaza.
Simone Zaza still getting trolled online 48 hours later https://t.co/I8degt1XS0 pic.twitter.com/QPD5tNIc3d
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) July 4, 2016
“What happened will follow me around for a lifetime. It was most important moment for the team, and for me, and I failed. But that’s how football is. Once again I’m sorry.”
BRILLIANT: Simone Zaza's penalty combined with the Icelandic commentator. #ITA #ISL (via @zekiel79)
pic.twitter.com/dHeAifJoTK— BBC Sporf (@BBCSporf) July 4, 2016
So, that’s the end of ridiculing Zaza for an honest mistake. It’s not funny anymore. Seriously, people.
Footage emerges of Simone Zaza practicing his penalty run-up in #ITA training...https://t.co/MOHpxcdfPB
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) July 2, 2016
(H/T: The Guardian)
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