Unai’s paradones support Spain

The MVP of the match went to the scorer Álvaro Morata, who jumped onto the field and kissed the saint, but the distinction could well have fallen into the hands of Pedri, Dani Olmo or Unai Simón. The goalkeeper, 1’90 tall, does not stop growing and does so by leaps and bounds. He takes risks with the distribution of the ball because Luis Enrique demands it and he signs saves that deserve to be seen over and over again in the summaries.

Against Germany, a senior team that will risk their lives against Costa Rica for football reasons, completed two that more than one saw inside. There was also a third as soon as the duel began, although the action was annulled for offside.

It was in the 11th minute, when he came out to cover a shot from a German player. The linesman raised the flag, but the Athletic goalkeeper made himself huge just in case. Then, in full German high pressure, he gave the ball to a rival near the area without any consequences. When people wonder why he doesn’t send the ball to the river or directly to his native Murgia, they should remember that Luis Enrique forbids it by decree –except in extreme situations– and that he asks him to take out the ball played, delivering it well.

Shortly after starting the second part, Simón took a risk to the limit with a pass to Pedri and the ball ended up in the boots of Kimmich. The midfielder took a great shot that the goalkeeper cleared for a corner with a magnificent stretch. And his saving interventions did not end there. In the 73rd minute, face to face with the German prodigy Musiala, the Athletic goalkeeper stood up and took a shot with his body that the stands with German supporters were already celebrating as a goal. Nothing could be done, however, before the missile of Fullkrug at point blank range, a target that was the final tie. The man from Murgia supported Spain at specific moments with actions that show why he is number one for his coach.