News Focus
- Emiliano Martínez praises SC Freiburg shot-stopper Noah Atubolu before the final
- The Aston Villa keeper seeks his first trophy since joining the Midlands club in 2020
- Both goalkeepers boast strong records when facing penalties in crucial matches
- Martínez prepares carefully to handle Freiburg’s danger from set-pieces
Emiliano Martínez has spoken highly of Noah Atubolu ahead of Wednesday’s Europa League final showdown. Aston Villa will face SC Freiburg in the prestigious decider.
The Argentine World Cup winner moved to Villa Park four years ago. He now hopes to secure his first major honour with the English side.
Martínez compared this final to his early career with the national team. “I entered my first Copa América without seeing my country lift a trophy. This situation feels identical. I trust my team-mates and my own ability. I never approach a final with pressure to win. Instead, I enjoy the occasion. I play for the supporters and for my family.”
The 33-year-old has earned fame for saving spot-kicks during high-pressure moments. He noticed that Atubolu enjoys similar success. The 23-year-old German has stopped the last five penalties he faced in the Bundesliga. He also blocked Rodrigo Zalazar during the semi-final victory against Braga.
“Their goalkeeper is excellent, so I must work even harder,” said Martínez regarding a possible shootout. “I think about this constantly. I will prepare completely. I back myself fully for that situation.”
The keeper also addressed Freiburg’s threat from corners and free-kicks. He mentioned Argentina’s victory over Colombia in the Copa América final. Colombia scored most of their goals from set-pieces during that tournament.
“I know Freiburg are very strong in this area,” he explained. “If I control my box properly and command my area, I can remove this danger. Hopefully, I will perform well in that aspect during the match.”