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The FIFA World Cup is the second most prestigious sporting event on the planet, following only the Olympics. Throughout its history, it has showcased extraordinary talents like Baggio, Pele, and Maradona, who have consistently delivered unforgettable performances. This list highlights ten of the most iconic goals ever scored in the tournament, featuring a mix of long-range strikes, brilliant team plays, and jaw-dropping individual efforts.
1. Roberto Baggio. Italy Vs Czech Republic – 1990
This legendary goal from the 1990 World Cup in Italy may not fully capture the brilliance of Baggio's skill. However, it remains a sight to behold. His subtle dummy move before taking the shot is a thing of beauty. By fooling two defenders (one of whom spins in confusion) and the goalkeeper, he opens up an empty net and converts with ease. There was no way he could miss.
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2. Michael Owen. England Vs Argentina – 1998
England suffered an unfair penalty shootout defeat in this match, but the game is most remembered for the sensational goal by 18-year-old Michael Owen. He brilliantly flicked on Beckham’s pass and then raced past the entire Argentine defense before calmly slotting it home with a clinical finish.
It’s unfortunate that Michael Owen never fully lived up to the promise of that iconic goal. While still an excellent player, injuries hindered what could have been a truly great career.
3. Diego Maradona. England Vs Argentina – 1986
The intense football rivalry between England and Argentina began here, with this legendary match. While Maradona’s second goal is remembered as a masterpiece, it is always accompanied by the controversial ‘Hand of God’ incident. Some argue that had Shilton gone for the ball, the outcome would have been different, with or without Maradona’s hand. Regardless, we forgive him for the moment, as he remains widely regarded as the greatest footballer in history. Argentina triumphed in this match and went on to win the World Cup.
What makes the second goal so remarkable is the way he turns the English defender in midfield before accelerating with the confidence and speed of someone who is certain to score. He still had to get past five more defenders.
In the same World Cup, Diego Maradona also netted an incredible solo goal against Belgium, which is nearly as impressive as his famous second goal.
4. Al Owairan. Saudi Arabia vs. Belgium – 1994
The finest goal from the 1994 USA World Cup. This stunning strike secured the win for Saudi Arabia, advancing them to the second round for the first time in their history.
5. Carlos Alberto. Brazil Vs Italy – 1970
In this match, the Brazilians showcase a brilliant team goal in what could be either an exhibition match or the World Cup final against Italy, a team known for their strong defense. It's hard to tell. The brilliance is in how a Brazilian player skillfully dribbles past three defenders, advancing only a few yards, but the real genius is in how the whole play is built down the left, drawing in Italy's defense, before switching to the right for a goal.
There are many memorable goals by Brazilian players, but this one stands out as the best.
6. Pele. Brazil vs. Sweden – 1958
Many people argue that Pele is the greatest player of all time, not because he was flawless but because, unlike Diego Maradona, he never resorted to cheating. Here's undeniable proof with his pure footballing brilliance.
In the 1958 World Cup final, at just 17 years old, Pele displayed both the confidence and the skill to delicately lob the ball over the defender's head and volley it past the goalkeeper. Equally impressive was his ability to control the pass with his chest and then smoothly maneuver around the first defender.
Brazil triumphed in the final, clinching their first World Cup title with a 5-2 victory.
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7. Fernando Torres. Spain vs. Ukraine – 2006
Two relatively new teams to the World Cup were torn apart by a couple of seasoned veterans. Spain won the match with a dominant 4-0 scoreline.
Also in that year: Esteban Cambiasso’s stunning goal for Argentina against Serbia and Montenegro, with Argentina securing a 6-0 victory.
8. Arie Haan Holland vs. West Germany – 1978
This is what is often called total football. Arie Haan delivered two incredible long-range goals in this World Cup, both spectacular from afar. While it's tough to pick the better of the two, this one stands out for the context: it was against their rivals, West Germany. From roughly 35 yards out, the strike appears out of nowhere. The buildup to the goal was excellent as well.
9. Lothar Mattheus Germany vs. Yugoslavia – 1990
Lothar Mattheus took charge with a powerful run and an even more powerful strike to seal the goal. Germany triumphed 4-1, eventually going on to win the World Cup, just one year after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
10. Manuel Negrete Mexico vs. Bulgaria – 1986
An incredible exchange of passes, followed by a stunning volley—what better stage to score than in the second round of a World Cup held in your own country?
Contributor: Simon Arms
Technorati Tags: goals, football, soccer, sports
