Giorgio Chiellini won the psychological battle during the coin toss for the penalty shoot-out, bemusing Spain captain Jordi Alba by thoroughly enjoying the tense moment.
The UEFA EURO 2020 semi-final ended 1-1 after 90 minutes with Federico Chiesa and Alvaro Morata goals, but had to be decided on penalties.
The tension was sky high for everyone at Wembley Stadium – except for Chiellini, who seemed to be having the time of his life.
The 36-year-old got Jordi Alba off guard during what seemed to be an inconclusive coin toss, joking and laughing, mockingly punching the Spain captain on the shoulder.
When the toss was taken again, Chiellini won, pointed to the end with the most Italy fans and then with another big laugh drew Alba into a bearhug.
It’s safe to say, the Spaniard seemed fairly bemused by the approach, as the Azzurri veteran’s playful antics showed just how many times he’s been in these situations before and was unphased by the atmosphere.
Manuel Locatelli’s effort was saved, Dani Olmo fired over the bar and Gianluigi Donnarumma parried a Morata penalty before Jorginho converted the decisive kick.
What Giorgio Chiellini wants, Giorgio Chiellini gets!https://t.co/aSUp58i3Qr #ITAESP #euro2020 #bbceuro2020 pic.twitter.com/qXrKXpGDe8
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) July 6, 2021