Francesco Totti admits he was scared for the first time in his career that he would miss a penalty after netting from the spot to secure Roma a last-minute 3-2 win over Sampdoria.
Totti came off the bench to turn the game around on Sunday, setting up an equaliser to make it 2-2 before grabbing the winner himself at the death in a game that was halted for 80 minutes during half-time due to torrential rain.
"A game is won by 11 players. I try to give my contribution when I come on, but the whole turn overturned the game," Totti told Sky Sport Italia.
"It was the first time I was a little scared that I'd miss. It was too important to crown this match with an assist and a winning goal. Besides, I was under the Curva Sud, so I couldn't miss there."
Totti turns 40 on Sept. 27 but says he is glad he chose not to retire in the summer.
"The pitch is what decides," he said. "If I am in this condition and have the right mentality, why stop?
"I am a Roman and a Romanista, so naturally the fans feel this bond and acclaim me. I can only do my best."