Giorgio Chiellini, captain of the Italian national team, gave a warm hug to Jordi Alba before the draw for the shoot-out in the semi-finals against Spain – what a great gesture. And apparently she had a reason.
Giorgio Chiellini is a phenomenon. At almost 37 years old, the Juventus central defender is still playing at the highest level. He also graduated from the University of Turin with a degree in business administration and has now written four books. Now, as captain of the Squadra Azzurra, he is in the final of the European Championship and thus on the verge of possibly the greatest triumph of his football career.
What also sets him apart was made clear by a scene from the semi-finals between Spain and Italy on Tuesday evening. After 120 minutes the score was 1-1 and Chiellini and his Spanish counterpart, Jordi Alba, were with referee Felix Brych – the draw for the penalty shoot-out was due. No sooner had the choice of side been made than Chiellini hugged the Spaniard and hugged him. He even lifted it up a little for a moment and had a great time doing it.
So much warmth is extraordinary
It was surprising that the Italian’s mood was so good, after all, a penalty shoot-out in a European Championship semi-final is more of a nerve-wracking affair. But Chiellini was thievingly happy about his cuddling with the Spaniard, who didn’t find it quite as funny as his facial expressions clearly showed. Still, it was a great gesture. So much looseness and cordiality shortly before the decision that can bring you closer to the greatest sporting triumph is extraordinary. Thanks to the Italian for that alone.
The scene was also mentioned in the ARD studio – and expert and U21 national coach Stefan Kuntz had an explanation for Chiellini’s warm reaction. According to Kuntz, it was not without reason, as it initially looked, but Alba had apparently tried to influence the German referee in the choice of sides. He probably wanted to confuse him with the chosen colors and make sure that the penalty shoot-out does not take place before the Italian corner. But the attempt failed. Instead, Chiellini hugged Alba and was amused by the would-be trickster. If so, Chiellini is even more casual than the police allow. With such a captain you can only become European champions.
Picket goal, penalty shoot-out and Live Aid – the legendary Wembley Stadium in pictures.
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
