When Olivier Giroud Played as Goalkeeper for AC Milan: The Heroic Night in Genoa
It was one of the most unforgettable moments in modern football, a night when Olivier Giroud, known for his goals, became AC Milan’s unexpected goalkeeper and saved his team from defeat.
The incident took place during a Serie A clash between AC Milan and Genoa on October 7, 2023. What began as a routine league game soon turned into a scene of pure drama that no one could have predicted.
The Match That Turned Into Chaos
The match was heading towards a close finish, with Christian Pulisic giving Milan the lead in the 87th minute. The Rossoneri seemed ready to take all three points until deep into stoppage time, when everything changed.
In the 98th minute, Milan’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan came rushing out of his penalty box to stop Genoa’s Caleb Ekuban from breaking through. In the process, he collided with the striker, and the referee showed him a red card for dangerous play.
But Milan had already made all five substitutions, meaning they had no goalkeeper left to bring on.
Read More
That’s when Olivier Giroud stepped forward. Without hesitation, the veteran striker pulled on the goalkeeper’s gloves and jersey, ready to protect Milan’s lead in the dying minutes.
Giroud’s Moment of Bravery
What happened next has gone down in Serie A history.
In the 103rd minute, Genoa sent everyone forward for one final attack, even their goalkeeper Josep Martínez joined in. The ball rebounded inside the box, and Genoa’s George Puscas fired a powerful shot towards goal.
Giroud reacted like a professional goalkeeper, diving off his line and making a sliding save to deny the equaliser. The entire stadium erupted as the French striker saved the game for Milan with his body, showing no fear.
Moments later, the referee blew the final whistle. AC Milan won 1-0, and Giroud walked off the pitch as an unlikely hero.
Fans and Players React
After the game, Giroud was the centre of global attention. Social media exploded with clips, memes, and admiration for his selfless act. AC Milan’s official account even shared his “goalkeeper stats”:
- 1 Save
- 1 Clean Sheet
- 0 Goals Conceded
- 100% Success Rate
Fans jokingly called him “Super Giroud” and “Oli the Keeper”.
Even football legends and pundits praised his courage and quick reflexes. Giroud himself laughed about it later, saying, “Maybe I found my new position, I’m ready if the coach needs me again!”
The Symbol of Team Spirit
Giroud’s save wasn’t just about stopping a goal, it represented the true spirit of football. A striker, known for his calm finishing and leadership, willingly took on the most pressurised position on the field for his team.
Moments like these show why Giroud remains one of football’s most respected professionals. Whether scoring at World Cups or saving shots in Serie A, his commitment and humility never fade.
Read More
Legacy of “Goalkeeper Giroud”
The incident instantly became one of the highlights of the 2023-24 Serie A season. AC Milan fans still celebrate that moment as one of the most thrilling endings to a match in years.
From that day, “Goalkeeper Giroud” became a cult favourite online, with fans creating edits, posters, and even T-shirts commemorating his incredible save.
For Giroud, it was just another day of helping his team, but for fans, it was a reminder that heroes can appear in the most unexpected ways.
FAQs
Q1. When did Olivier Giroud play as a goalkeeper?
A. Giroud played as a goalkeeper on October 7, 2023, during a Serie A match between AC Milan and Genoa.
Q2. Why did Giroud go in goal?
A. He replaced Mike Maignan, who was sent off late in the game after Milan had used all their substitutions.
Q3. Did Giroud make any saves?
A. Yes, he made a crucial save against George Puscas in stoppage time to secure Milan’s 1–0 victory.
Q4. What was the final score of the match?
A. AC Milan defeated Genoa 1-0 thanks to a goal from Christian Pulisic and Giroud’s late heroics.
Q5. How did fans react to Giroud’s goalkeeping?
A. Fans and teammates celebrated his bravery, calling him “Super Giroud” and praising his 100% clean sheet record as a goalkeeper.
Also Read- Miracle of Mjällby: How A Tiny Swedish Fishing Village Is About To Win The League
