Analysing Jamal Musiala’s bizarre corner goal for Germany against Italy
On average, about one in every 30 corners leads to a goal in football. However, the success rate increases significantly when the goalkeeper and entire defense are caught off guard. This was evident in the UEFA Nations League quarter-final match between Germany and Italy in Dortmund.
During the game, Germany’s Jamal Musiala took advantage of Italy’s defensive lapse to score a goal from a corner. The Italian team seemed to be in disarray, with their goalkeeper and defenders caught outside their six-yard box. Joshua Kimmich’s quick thinking and Musiala’s opportunistic positioning resulted in Germany doubling their lead to 2-0.
This incident was reminiscent of Liverpool’s famous goal against Barcelona in the Champions League, where Divock Origi scored from a quickly taken corner. In Dortmund, Italy’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was left stranded as Musiala found the back of the net.
The chaotic sequence of events began with Donnarumma making a save and conceding a corner. Italy’s players were visibly frustrated as Kimmich rushed to take the corner. Donnarumma, along with his teammates, was unaware of Musiala’s presence behind him in the six-yard box.
A ball boy’s quick pass and Musiala’s alertness set the stage for the goal, leaving Italy’s defense in disarray. The goalkeeper and defenders were seen discussing tactics outside the box, oblivious to the imminent danger. By the time they realized their mistake, it was too late.
Despite Italy’s spirited comeback to draw the game 3-3, they ultimately lost 5-4 on aggregate. The bizarre goal scored by Musiala highlighted Italy’s vulnerability from set plays, a concern that coach Luciano Spalletti had acknowledged earlier.
In conclusion, Musiala’s unusual goal will be a topic of discussion for Italy for a long time. The incident showcased the importance of concentration and quick thinking in football, as even the slightest lapse can lead to a critical goal.
