Nicolas Gaitan is no unknown star. The former Boca Juniors youngster is one of the most recognisable figures in the Portuguese Primeira Liga who has long been linked with Europe’s top clubs without making the jump. Followers of Benfica have always boasted of Gaitan’s superior technical ability and he showed exactly why in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Now football fans are always fascinated by the panenka penalty which is beautiful when executed but leaves the taker red-faced when saved. Now imagine a panenka from a free-kick positioned outside the box. Incredible isn’t it? This is what Gaitan pulled off. A perfect free-kick, executed to perfection. The accuracy is immaculate. The cockyness is immense. The result is magnificent. This truly is one of the best free-kicks you’ll ever see!
This GIF originally appeared on reddit.
