Simone Zaza issues apology after penalty miss in Italy's Euro 2016 exit to Germany
Monday 4 July 2016 19:23, UK
Simone Zaza has apologised for letting Italy fans down with his bizarre penalty miss at Euro 2016.
The Italy striker, brought on in the closing stages of extra-time to take a penalty, was second on the list to take a spot-kick after Germany held the Azzurri to a 1-1 quarter-final draw in Bordeaux on Saturday.
However, Zaza did not worry goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in the slightest as he blazed the ball over the bar after an unorthodox run-up which resembled intensive jogging on the spot.
While Graziano Pelle, Leonardo Bonucci and Matteo Darmian also missed penalties, meaning Italy fell 6-5 to Germany in the shootout, Zaza has been the target of ridicule on social media ever since he made his eccentric attempt.
The 25-year-old Juventus frontman has now asked for forgiveness from the Italian public, insisting his embarrassment will haunt him for the rest of his life.
In an Instagram post, he wrote: "Beyond apologising, I must add that I'm sorry to have disappointed all the fans who celebrated, who believed in us, and who ultimately suffered because of this team.
"I take responsibility as I always have and move forward, knowing that we've made Italy proud.
"I would like to thank all the people who have supported me after this incident, understanding that I didn't mean to mess up like I did - I must emphasise that.
I did send Manuel Neuer the wrong way, but unfortunately the ball went too high. It will be difficult, but I want to get over it. I want the Italians to know that we gave everything.
"I'm also a fan of the national team so in addition to being disappointed, sad and angry with myself, I am proud that we have helped to rekindle the country's passion for football.
"What happened will follow me around for a lifetime. It was most important moment for the team, and for me, and I failed.
"But that's how football is. Once again, I'm sorry."
