Bukayo Saka revealed he is in awe of Ivan Toney’s incredible no-look penalty technique which helped England triumph in their Euro 2024 shootout against Switzerland.
The Three Lions will face Netherlands in Wednesday’s semi-final in Dortmund, after a tense victory over the Swiss which saw Gareth Southgate’s side come from behind to keep their European Championship dream alive.
After Bukayo Saka’s goal forced a tight contest into extra time, England ultimately prevailed 5-3 on penalties with the Arsenal winger, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham and Toney all converting from the spot.
Brentford forward Toney’s effort was particularly impressive given the way in which he struck the ball into the corner without looking down, constantly maintaining eye-contact with goalkeeper Jan Sommer.
‘When we see him in training and practicing it’s crazy he does the same thing,’ said Saka in admiration of his teammate. ‘We’re all just in awe. I don’t know how you cannot look at the ball.’
Luke Shaw, who made his comeback from injury as a late substitute, added: ‘I cannot believe it to be honest.
‘It’s crazy there’s one replay where you look back and watch just his face and it’s mad, I saw it this morning and it’s crazy.’
Toney has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable penalty takers in Premier League football following his goalscoring exploits for the Bees since their promotion to the top flight three years ago.
‘To be honest, I don’t really know where I’m going so I just hit the ball,’ he said in an interview back in 2022 discussing his mindset before he takes a penalty.
‘The keeper’s trying to give the talk and everybody’s trying to get in my head, but I just walk away, compose myself, think of different things, think of being on the beach with a cocktail and put it in the back of the goal.’
As to how he can do so without looking at the ball once, Toney’s reply was one of simplicity. ‘The ball doesn’t move.’
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