Daniel Maldini's penalty heroics shadowed by drunken crash

Italian Serie A striker Daniel Maldini scored the winning penalty for Cagliari against Atalanta on 12 September, then in the early hours of 13 September he crashed his Porsche Carrera in Milan, testing positive for 0.91 mg/l and 0.89 mg/l alcohol and for drugs, leading to an immediate licence revocation.

The match, Serie A round four, saw Cagliari edge Atalanta 2‑1. Maldini converted a penalty in the second half that proved decisive, securing three points for the Sardinian side.

Following the victory, the club granted Maldini permission to return to his Milan home for a short break. He arrived late on the night of the 12th, ready for a weekend off.

Crash and legal consequences

At about 05:15 on 13 September, Maldini was driving his Porsche Carrera with three friends when he collided with a Volkswagen Golf on Caracciolo Street. The impact involved six people, including a stationary vehicle, but none suffered serious injuries. Maldini sustained only minor injuries and was discharged from hospital to return home.

Police breath tests recorded 0.91 mg/l on the first reading and 0.89 mg/l on the second, both exceeding the legal limit. He was charged with drink‑driving and his driving licence was revoked on the spot.

A pre‑emptive drug test also returned a positive result, prompting the newspaper to describe the situation as “serious”. Toxicology results are awaited, and Cagliari have yet to announce any formal disciplinary action.

Club and wider reaction

The incident has sparked a ripple across Milan, with fans and officials commenting on the rapid fall from on‑field heroics to legal trouble. In unrelated news, the Japan Football Association is recruiting partners for its JFA PARTNERSHIP PROJECT for DREAM, “DREAM」はこちら, highlighting a contrasting focus on collective ambition.