Chapter 188: The Third-Place Killer
"Well done, Carlos!"
On the sidelines, José clapped his hands forcefully. While this save didn't necessarily prove that Roa had returned to the level of Argentina's national team's starting goalkeeper, at the very least, he was a reliable presence in goal. With Mallorca's first-choice keeper, Franco, out injured for an unknown period, Roa's performances would significantly impact the team's results.
Franco was a relatively quiet goalkeeper, but Roa was the complete opposite. Just a glance at his imposing beard was enough to tell he was far from a gentle character. His style was all about roaring and bellowing on the pitch.
After pumping his fist and letting out a few shouts, Roa took a few steps forward with the ball before turning sideways and launching a powerful throw using his momentum!
A throw-in from the goalkeeper typically doesn't cover as much ground as a goal kick, but it has its advantages. However, accuracy is not one of them.
The ball flew nearly twenty meters before landing right at Ronaldinho's feet. The Brazilian controlled it with his left foot, then, just as Lusín closed in, flicked it over his opponent's head with his right foot and turned to break forward!
Lusín reacted quickly, executing a half-turn in an attempt to slow Ronaldinho down. However, the young Brazilian had grown significantly stronger physically. Even under intense pressure, he managed to push forward steadily. After breaking into Celta's half, he laid the ball off to Rufete, who had sprinted up the flank in support.
Rufete advanced with the ball and, before Juanfran could close him down, swung a long pass to the left. Capdevila, who had surged forward, controlled it smoothly before delivering a cross into the box!
Luke met the cross with a powerful header, but Celta's Argentine goalkeeper, Caballero, was equal to the challenge, diving to his left and palming the ball away!
"Oh! Another brilliant save by Caballero! This match is turning into a showcase for Argentine goalkeepers. Franco was solid before his injury, Roa just pulled off a stunning stop, and now it's Caballero's turn! Bielsa must be having a headache—who should he pick as Argentina's number one?"
While the Argentine national team coach might have a "happy dilemma," the two managers on the sidelines saw it differently. Outstanding goalkeeping performances often meant that the defenses were under too much pressure.