If experience was any guide – Petr Cech would have been the firm favourite to lift Europa League title yet again. The Czech international and all time Europa League legend, Cech has one last opportunity to go for glory in his last competitive appearance.
Experience matters, so does ability. Kepa Arrizabalaga, another rich brat goalkeeper of Premier League alongside Becker has taken matters into his hand a lot this season. Playing the first season for Blues? Doesn’t seem to be true. The Spaniard has announced confidence and gained trust of Stamford Bridge.
Besides being a mighty built goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga also has the ability to make ultra-flying saves, significantly with his right hand. Fast with his reflexes and strong in mentality, Kepa showcased an exemplary process of calmness and composure in the semi-final tie against Frankfurt.
In the semi’s, Kepa stood strong as the post saving two crucial penalties during the shootout which therefore took Chelsea into the finals. What I say in the semi-final tie was a Casillas. Brilliant by all means, traditional in nationality; Spain it is that has produced glorious keepers, time and long.
The heavy bid that Chelsea put in Kepa Arrizabalaga will not be justifies until and unless the Spanish international commands his position at Baku. Never nervous in his approach and always monitored to exercise nerve-wrecking performances, Kepa has it all that takes to be a deadly keeper in what promises to be a breathing final.
Petr Cech, on the other hand, has two uphill tasks coming. First one being his arbitrary whim to clinch victory going into rest-bed. The second and a emotional one, playing against the same club that made him a legendary footballer. Cech has shared ample trophies with the Blues during his club tenure but would want to perform the contrary this time; clinching the trophy from them.
Cech may be on the bad side of 30’s but his performance isn’t. His capability to still produce spectacular saves speak volume. The 37-year-old Gunner will surely be put to test against the colossal attack of Chelsea, particularly Olivier Giroud.
Two imperious keepers, fighting for a title that may hold so much value in their life although differently but traditionally similar, where both would want to kiss the silverware with heartfelt emotions and lips wet from the joy of victory.
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