20 Best Goals In Football History

caguttt 25 Sep 2024

Football, known as soccer in some parts of the world, is a sport that transcends cultures and unites millions of fans globally. Among the many aspects that make football so enchanting are the unforgettable goals that have left spectators in awe. From stunning free-kicks to breathtaking long-range strikes, these moments are etched in the annals of football history. In this article, we will explore the 20 best goals in football history, celebrating the artistry and skill of the game's greatest players.

The beauty of football lies not just in the matches, but in the magic moments that can change the course of a game. Goals can ignite passion, evoke emotions, and create legends. Whether it’s a last-minute equalizer or a spectacular volley, these goals have become iconic, often replayed on highlight reels for generations. Join us as we relive these historic moments and the players who made them possible.

As we dive into this list, we will provide a detailed analysis of each goal, including the context of the match, the skill involved, and its impact on football. This comprehensive look at the best goals in football history will not only resonate with die-hard fans but also educate newcomers to the sport.

1. Diego Maradona's 'Goal of the Century'
2. Marco van Basten's Volley
3. Lionel Messi vs. Getafe
4. Cristiano Ronaldo's Bicycle Kick
5. George Weah's Solo Goal
6. Zlatan Ibrahimović's 30-Yard Volley
7. Roberto Carlos' Free-Kick
8. Ronaldinho's No-Look Freekick
9. Dennis Bergkamp's Touch and Finish
10. David Beckham's Halfway Line Goal
11. Eder's Long-Range Strike
12. Thierry Henry's Solo Effort
13. Roberto Baggio's Dribble and Finish
14. Michael Owen's Solo Goal
15. Cristiano Ronaldo's Free-Kick vs. Portsmouth
16. Carlos Alberto's Team Goal
17. Wayne Rooney's Overhead Kick
18. Lionel Messi's Goal vs. Bayern Munich
19. Frank Lampard's Long-Range Curler
20. Neymar's Stunning Solo Goal

1. Diego Maradona's 'Goal of the Century'

In the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England, Diego Maradona scored what is widely regarded as the 'Goal of the Century'. After receiving the ball in his own half, Maradona dribbled past five English players, showcasing extraordinary skill, balance, and speed before slotting the ball into the net. This goal not only helped Argentina secure a place in the semi-finals but also solidified Maradona's legacy as one of football's greatest players.

2. Marco van Basten's Volley

Marco van Basten's volley in the 1988 European Championship final against the Soviet Union is often cited as one of the best goals in football history. The Dutch forward received a cross from Ruud Gullit and unleashed a stunning strike from a tight angle, sending the ball into the top corner. This goal helped the Netherlands win their first major trophy and remains a testament to Van Basten's technical ability.

3. Lionel Messi vs. Getafe

In the Copa del Rey semi-final in 2007, Lionel Messi scored a goal that mirrored Maradona's famous dribble against England. Messi picked up the ball in his own half and dribbled past several Getafe defenders before finishing with precision. This goal showcased the incredible talent of Messi and his ability to change a game single-handedly.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo's Bicycle Kick

During a Champions League match in 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a breathtaking bicycle kick against Juventus while playing for Real Madrid. The audacity and technique displayed in this goal earned Ronaldo widespread acclaim, even from opposing fans. This moment encapsulated Ronaldo's greatness and his knack for producing magic on the biggest stages.

5. George Weah's Solo Goal

In 1996, George Weah scored a phenomenal solo goal for AC Milan against Verona. He picked up the ball in his own half, dribbled past multiple defenders, and finished with a powerful shot. This goal not only illustrated Weah's extraordinary talent but also his determination and skill.

6. Zlatan Ibrahimović's 30-Yard Volley

Zlatan Ibrahimović's stunning 30-yard volley against England in 2012 is a goal that left fans speechless. The Swedish striker executed a perfect overhead kick, catching the ball mid-air and sending it flying into the net. This incredible feat of athleticism highlights Ibrahimović's unique skill set and flair for the spectacular.

7. Roberto Carlos' Free-Kick

Roberto Carlos' free-kick against France in 1997 remains one of the most iconic goals in football history. The Brazilian full-back struck the ball with incredible power and spin, bending it around the wall and into the net. This goal is a testament to Carlos' extraordinary ability to strike a football with precision and power.

8. Ronaldinho's No-Look Freekick

In 2003, Ronaldinho scored a remarkable no-look free-kick against England in a friendly match. The Brazilian magician deceived the wall and goalkeeper with his clever technique, showcasing his creativity and flair for the unexpected. This goal is a perfect example of Ronaldinho's unique style and charisma on the field.

9. Dennis Bergkamp's Touch and Finish

In the 1998 World Cup, Dennis Bergkamp scored a stunning goal against Argentina. With a brilliant first touch, he controlled a long ball, evaded a defender, and finished with finesse. This goal exemplifies Bergkamp's incredible talent and composure under pressure.

10. David Beckham's Halfway Line Goal

David Beckham's extraordinary goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon in 1996 is a moment that every football fan remembers. Beckham spotted the goalkeeper off his line and launched a precise shot, scoring from a remarkable distance. This goal solidified Beckham's reputation as a world-class player and a set-piece specialist.

11. Eder's Long-Range Strike

Eder's winning goal in the 2016 UEFA European Championship final against France is a moment that will go down in history. The Portuguese midfielder unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, securing Portugal's first major international trophy. This goal showcased Eder's determination and skill when it mattered most.

12. Thierry Henry's Solo Effort

Thierry Henry's solo goal against Manchester United in 2000 is a masterclass in finishing. Henry picked up the ball in his own half, raced down the wing, and finished with a precise shot into the corner. This goal remains one of the best moments of his illustrious career.

13. Roberto Baggio's Dribble and Finish

Roberto Baggio's goal against Czechoslovakia in the 1990 World Cup is a memorable moment in football history. After receiving the ball, Baggio dribbled past several defenders before scoring with a powerful shot. This goal is a testament to Baggio's skill and creativity on the field.

14. Michael Owen's Solo Goal

Michael Owen's goal against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup is one of the most famous goals in tournament history. At just 18 years old, Owen picked up the ball in his own half, evaded defenders, and slotted the ball into the net. This goal showcased Owen's pace and finishing ability.