Gigi Buffon shows that even legends can fall as error leads to crucial Spain goal
In the 55th minute of Italy's 2018 World Cup qualifier against Spain, Gianluigi Buffon charged out to cut off a ball played through to Vitolo. It's something the world has seen the 38-year-old do countless times. But this time, he missed his kick and a pleasantly surprised Vitolo found himself through on goal to put Spain up 1-0.
Gigi Buffon's been Italy's No. 1 since his backup Gigi Donnarumma's been in pampers. But everyone gets old sometime. Buffon's still amongst the world's best goalkeepers, and he probably will play at the highest level until he's 40, making it to the 2018 World Cup. But he's slowing down, and he doesn't have the extraterrestrial reflexes that led to his "Superman" nickname anymore.
Donnarumma is waiting, and Italy has a host of other goalkeepers in the wings eager for their chance as well. Buffon is still the Azzuri's undisputed No. 1 now, but soon enough, it'll be someone else's turn. For his, Italy's and Juventus' sake, let's hope that turn isn't forced until he's good and ready.
MORE FROM FOX SOCCER:
You don't see this ... ever from Gigi Buffon. Vitolo says 'Thank you' and it's 1-0, Spain. #ITAESP #WCQ https://t.co/PQib0kmCqO
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) October 6, 2016
