Inter Milan superstar Hakan Calhanoglu has assumed responsibility for squandering a penalty in Turkey’s UEFA Nations League win against Iceland.
During his post-match interview, as reported by FCInterNews, the 30-year-old took the blame for wasting a spot-kick, which could’ve backfired on his side.
Turkey slumped to an early deficit at Laugardalsvöllur in Reykjavík and couldn’t recover until the halftime interval.
Vincenzo Montella’s team had a perfect opportunity to restore parity early in the second half.
However, Calhanoglu let them down.
Indeed, Inter’s designated penalty-taker sent the ball into the back of the net.
Unfortunately, he slipped while taking the shot, causing a double touch, which led referee Damian Sylwestrzak to disallow the goal.
Yet, unfazed by this heartbreaking turn of events, Turkey turned the game on its head to claim an overwhelming 4-1 victory.
Calhanoglu redeemed himself by converting another penalty midway through the second half.
His calmness and composure gave the Crescent-Stars a turnaround goal, setting the tone for their third consecutive win in Group B4.
Inter Milan Midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu Takes Blame For Wasted Penalty Vs Iceland
You don’t see Calhanoglu fail to score from the spot every day.
In fact, he hasn’t missed a penalty for Inter since Simone Inzaghi chose him as the designated taker last term.
Frustration reached an all-time high last night as the Turkish midfielder addressed the media after the game.
“My mind still goes to the penalty, I’m sorry for slipping,” Calhanoglu said.
“I don’t want to talk too much, but I shouldn’t have made a mistake.
“That’s why I wanted to take responsibility for taking the second penalty.”
Calhanoglu’s decision to take the second penalty perhaps best illustrates his tremendous self-confidence.
The former AC Milan playmaker has grown to become one of Serie A’s standout performers since swapping allegiances at San Siro.