'Educated guess' - 1994 Afcon-winning striker praises Hermansen for saving Chelsea star's spot kick

Former Nigeria international Efan Ekoku has weighed in on Mads Hermansen’s penalty save that denied Cole Palmer during Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Leicester City. 

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning striker, speaking in his role as a commentator on the Premier League world feed, described the Danish goalkeeper’s intervention as a mix of instinct and preparation.

Palmer, Chelsea’s designated penalty taker, stepped up to the spot in the 22nd minute after a foul on Jadon Sancho inside the box. 

However, his effort was thwarted by Hermansen, who dived to his right to parry the ball away, preserving Leicester’s hopes of getting something from the game.

Ekoku acknowledged the controversy surrounding the save, noting that Chelsea players appeared to protest Hermansen’s positioning. 

"He's got one foot on the line, that's what the Chelsea players are complaining about, or maybe they feel that it's a little bit of gamesmanship from Hermansen," Ekoku remarked.

Despite the debates, the former Norwich City and Bournemouth forward was full of praise for the Leicester shot-stopper. 

"Whichever way, that's a terrific stop," he said. "In the corner with pace, educated guess if you like or superb homework, I will go with the homework."

Palmer, who has been reliable from the penalty spot for Chelsea this season, saw his luck run out on this occasion.

Ekoku pointed out that the quality of the strike was not poor, but Hermansen’s anticipation and execution were crucial.

"That's a great stop, not the worst penalty you will see. Palmer's luck remains out," he added.

Chelsea went on to secure a 1-0 victory, with Marc Cucurella’s stunning long-range strike in the 60th minute proving to be the difference. 

However, Palmer’s penalty miss could have made the game more comfortable for the Blues had he converted.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: lcfc.com

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