Randal Kolo Muani is Juventus’ designated penalty taker, but when the Bianconeri were awarded a spot kick against Rennes last night, Nick Woltemade stepped forward to take responsibility and successfully converted the opportunity. His goal provided a positive moment for the German forward, who continues to build his record in European competition.
Woltemade has now scored in every Europa League game he has played for Juventus since the start of the season, with two of those goals coming from penalties. Maintaining that scoring record will be encouraging for the striker, particularly as he looks to develop greater confidence and establish himself as an important member of the team.
Confidence can make a significant difference to a forward’s performances, and finding the net against Rennes should help Woltemade. However, Kolo Muani also needs goals to strengthen his belief and make the most of his opportunities. Both players will want to contribute regularly as Juventus look to improve their attacking performances.
Kolo Muani allows Woltemade to take the penalty
Kolo Muani would also have welcomed the chance to score against Rennes after experiencing frustration in Juventus’ previous match against Lazio. The Frenchman had an early goal ruled out and failed to score again as the Bianconeri suffered a 3-0 defeat.
After that disappointment, finding the net against Rennes could have helped him regain some momentum. Nevertheless, when Juventus were awarded a penalty, he allowed Woltemade to take the kick instead, giving his teammate an opportunity to add another goal to his European record.
The decision proved successful, with Woltemade converting the spot kick. It also demonstrated that the forwards could work together and support each other, even when both have reasons to want a goal for themselves.
(Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Woltemade explains his conversation with Kolo Muani
The German striker has now revealed that he personally asked Kolo Muani for permission to take the penalty. He explained how the Frenchman responded and expressed satisfaction with his performance, as quoted by Football Italia:
“I politely asked Kolo Muani if I could take the penalty, and he told me to go ahead. It went well and I scored.
“At the end I would have liked to get a third. The most important thing is to play a good game. Tonight I played with the right spirit, and we’ll carry on like that.”
Woltemade’s comments show that he was eager to contribute even more, despite being pleased with his display. The goal should provide a confidence boost, while Juventus will hope both forwards continue to find opportunities to score in their upcoming matches.