Kepa recalls shootout vs Eintracht and what helps keepers make better decisions to deflect penalties

Chelsea eliminated Eintracht on their way to the Europa League final. Kepa played a massive role in that victory saving to pens in the shootout after both legs ended in a 1-1 draw.

“Sometimes penalties go your way and sometimes they don’t, but this time, I was very happy to have been able to help the team. I think that nowadays all goalkeepers do some analysis – a bit of research about possible penalty-takers and where they usually like to shoot.

We have plenty of data available and you always take a look at things that might give you the edge.

“In situations like that, where not a lot is within your control, it can help to guide your decisions. I was really pleased to have been able to do that for the team.

“We came up against a very good, very physical team. In the first half, I think we controlled the game well. It was crucial that we scored the first goal, so we were quite positive going into half-time.

“But after the break, Eintracht came back stronger and when they got their equaliser, things probably started to look a bit more complicated for us because of the away goals situation. It was a very difficult and very intense match.

“We are all delighted to have made it through and to be going to the final. Eintracht made us work hard and both legs of the semi-final were very tough, so we believe we deserve to be here. Now we have to get over the last hurdle which is winning the title we have all been contesting for many matches.”

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