Head raised, haughty posture and polished technique: Darryl Bakola did not go unnoticed for his big debut in the Champions League. Launched by Roberto De Zerbi
in a crucial match against Newcastle (2-1)the kid showed great audacity.
A nerve materialized by a few long shots, but also by an action which fueled the debates during the match. Launched into the area after a good throw, the young 17-year-old midfielder mystified a defender before collapsing just as he was about to launch his shot.
Why did Bakoka dive?
The match referee, Maurizio Mariani, did not hesitate for a moment and handed out a yellow card to Bakola for simulation. In this type of action, the slow motion can show gestures not visible at first glance, but in this sequence, the Marseille kid was not affected by Fabian Schar, while his hook nevertheless allowed him to make the difference. Accustomed to playing with the OM reserve, Darryl Bakola will have to learn to deal with VAR, a tool not used in the lower divisions…