“I Have Studied The Way Lionel Messi Takes Penalties", Says Brazil's Keeper

Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson has admitted he studies Lionel Messi’s penalty taking technique.

The Botafogo-owned stopper kept out the former FIFA World Player of the Year’s spot-kick during the Seleção’s 2-0 win over Argentina in the Superclásico de las Américas on Saturday and was pleased to see his research pay-off.

“I have studied the way Lionel Messi takes penalties,” He told Globo Esporte. "I waited until the very last second to dive, so the penalty-taker has less chance. He took it on his best side, and I was very happy to save it.”