Author of a remarkable preparation, marked in particular by a memorable whitewash against the Netherlands (1-0), Luca Zidane had a more difficult start during the group stage of the World Cup. His three goals conceded in the first match against Lionel Messi’s Argentina (0-3) earned him very severe criticism.
Affected by these attacks, which increased after his foul play against Jordan, the Granada goalkeeper is plagued by doubt and his performances in training would suffer. So much so that Vladimir Petkovic did not hesitate to put him on the bench for the third match against Austria, preferring Oussama Benbot.
Questioned after the meeting, the Swiss technician played the card of transparency. “The absence of Luca Zidane as a starter is due to the performances he achieved in the first two matches,” replied Vladimir Petkovic. I felt that Osama Benbot deserved to play today”he whispered.
Osama Benbot in turmoil
However, Luca Zidane does not seem (yet) doomed. Consequence of the performance of his replacement against Austria. The 31-year-old goalkeeper, who was making his fifth selection on this occasion, did not show himself to his advantage, conceding three goals from the only three Austrian shots on target and making a big error of judgment on the Austrian opener.
This performance was harshly criticized despite qualifying for the round of 16. “It’s a disaster”, “He’s even worse than Zidane”, “He’s the worst goalkeeper in the history of the selection”, “You might as well play without a goalkeeper”… These are some of the comments during the match against Austria.
“Competition remains open to all positions and everyone can play according to the opponent and the requirements of each match”for his part warned Vladimir Petkovic. The next training sessions could serve as justice of the peace.
