Dani Martín Fernández (Gijón, 1998), the goalkeeper from Gijón, has established himself as CD Tenerife's most significant signing of the season, showcasing an exceptional ability to save penalties. His current streak, with three spot-kicks neutralized in a short period, surpasses previous club records.
These interventions have been providential, contributing significantly to the team's objectives. The last comparable precedent at the club was Edgar Badia, who saved two out of five consecutive penalties. Although other players like Jesús de Miguel or Nacho Gil might attract more attention, Martín has proven to be a decisive player in critical moments.
“"I wasn't fit to play; I was fit to take indefinite leave. I would leave training and just want to get into bed. I don't know if it was depression, but I had a very hard time."
Among the penalties saved, highlights include the one against Real Madrid Castilla, crucial for securing a victory against a direct promotion rival; the save against Osasuna Promesas at the Heliodoro, which secured three vital home points; and the most recent one, against Sofiane's shot, which maintained CD Tenerife's lead.
What's surprising is that Martín was not previously considered a specialist in this area. His personal records indicate that more than five years passed without him saving a penalty before his current streak. In 2017, while playing for Sporting de Gijón B, he saved two, one against Real Unión and another against Numancia in the Copa del Rey. His last successful save in an official match was in 2018 against Rayo Majadahonda, and in a friendly with Real Betis against Colo Colo three and a half years ago.
Martín Fernández's current streak, with two saves at the Heliodoro and one at José Fouto, is attributed to his excellent personal state. Recently a father, the player recounted in EL DÍA the difficulties he faced a year prior at Eldense. Upon arriving at CD Tenerife, Dani requested a three-season contract to settle down, choosing Candelaria as his residence and finding an exceptionally welcoming environment.
From a young age, Dani identified qualities in himself such as instinct and work capacity, which he has cultivated throughout his career, learning from role models like Buffon. At CD Tenerife, he has found a significant role and a good relationship with his teammate Gabri de Vuyst. Regarding penalties, Martín confesses that he relies on intuition rather than detailed study of the penalty takers, always striving for success in every intervention.
