Haaland is no Messi or Ronaldo: Rooney on penalty call in FA Cup
The FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace was a thrilling match that had fans on the edge of their seats. However, it was the penalty call that dominated the conversation after the game. Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, their usual penalty taker, surprisingly handed the ball over to teammate Marmoush in the first half. The decision proved costly as Marmoush failed to convert the penalty, and Crystal Palace went on to win the game 1-0.
Ex-Manchester United footballer Wayne Rooney, who has played in numerous big games during his career, weighed in on the penalty decision. Speaking to the media, Rooney said, “Haaland is not Messi or Ronaldo. He’s a great player, but he’s not on their level.”
Rooney’s statement was a clear reference to the fact that Haaland is not a traditional penalty taker. He has taken penalties for Manchester City this season, but his failure to convert the penalty in the FA Cup final was a major turning point in the game. Rooney’s comment also hinted that Haaland may not have the mental toughness and composure under pressure that players like Messi and Ronaldo possess.
The penalty decision was a surprise to many, especially considering Haaland’s impressive form this season. He has scored numerous important goals for Manchester City, and his ability to score from the penalty spot has been a valuable asset for the team. However, it seems that Pep Guardiola may have decided to mix things up and give Marmoush a chance to take the penalty.
Marmoush’s failure to convert the penalty was a major blow to Manchester City’s chances of winning the game. The team struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the game, and the penalty miss was a turning point that ultimately led to Crystal Palace’s victory.
The penalty decision also sparked debate about the psychology of penalty taking. Some players are more confident and composed when taking penalties, while others may freeze under pressure. Haaland’s decision to hand the ball over to Marmoush may have been a sign of his own nerves or lack of confidence in taking the penalty.
Rooney’s comment about Haaland not being Messi or Ronaldo was a reference to the fact that the Norwegian striker does not have the same level of mental toughness and composure as the two legendary players. Messi and Ronaldo have taken countless penalties throughout their careers, and their ability to remain calm and focused under pressure is one of their greatest strengths.
However, Haaland is still a young player, and he has the potential to develop the same level of composure and mental toughness as Messi and Ronaldo. He has already shown his ability to score important goals for Manchester City, and he has the potential to become one of the best players in the world.
The penalty decision in the FA Cup final was a significant moment in the game, and it will be interesting to see how Haaland bounces back from the disappointment. Manchester City will need to regroup and refocus for their next game, and Haaland will be looking to make a statement and prove himself as a top-class penalty taker.
In conclusion, the penalty decision in the FA Cup final was a surprise to many, and it had a significant impact on the outcome of the game. Wayne Rooney’s comment about Haaland not being Messi or Ronaldo highlighted the difference in mental toughness and composure between the two players. Haaland has the potential to become one of the best players in the world, but he will need to work on his mental toughness and composure under pressure.
