Sergio Ramos experienced a rare and humiliating moment on Thursday night as Monterrey suffered a heavy 6-2 loss to Toluca in Liga MX.
The Spaniard, normally celebrated for his composure from the spot, was left red-faced after seeing a daring Panenka penalty brilliantly saved.
From Spot-Kick Specialist to Shocked Defender
Ramos, 39, has built a reputation over the years for his penalty prowess, scoring a combined 30 for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team.
Since his move to Monterrey in February, he had taken on the club’s spot-kicks, maintaining a perfect record of three goals from three attempts—until this clash with Toluca.
The Panenka That Backfired
In the 20th minute at Estadio Nemesio Diez, Ramos stepped up for what looked like a routine penalty to give Monterrey a two-goal lead.
Opting for a cheeky Panenka, he tried to deceive goalkeeper Hugo Gonzalez by stuttering before softly chipping the ball down the middle.
Gonzalez, however, stayed composed and calmly collected the ball, immediately launching a counter-attack that left Ramos exposed and the crowd gasping.
It was a moment few expected from the usually confident defender.
Fans React Online
Social media had a field day with Ramos’ miss.
One Reddit user commented, “I find it incredibly satisfying whenever I see a Panenka saved,” while another took a sarcastic jab at his persona: “Couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy.”
The miss quickly became the talk of the Liga MX community.
Missed Opportunity Costs Monterrey Dearly
Ramos’ failed penalty proved costly. Toluca seized the momentum and went on to dominate the rest of the match, eventually thrashing Monterrey 6-2.
The loss was a stark reminder that even the most experienced players can have off days.
Anthony Martial Struggles to Make an Impact
Ramos wasn’t the only big-name in Monterrey’s lineup.
Anthony Martial, 29, who joined the club earlier this month following a tough year at AEK Athens, was also on the pitch.
After leaving Manchester United last summer, Martial made just 24 appearances for the Greek side.
Against Toluca, Martial played 51 minutes but struggled to influence the game, failing to register a single shot on goal.
It was a night to forget for Monterrey’s high-profile recruits.