It’s not just a game; football is a collection of amazing moments, each one more thrilling than the last. Sometimes an amazing return, a great goal, or a classic game are the things that make football what it is and will be remembered for years to come.
As a soccer fan, knowing about these famous times will help you connect with the sport’s long past and give you ideas as you watch the games today.
Let’s look at the best football plays that all football fans should know.
1. Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” (1986 World Cup)
There are few football moments more controversial or iconic than Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” in the 1986 World Cup. In the quarterfinals, Argentina faced England, and Maradona used his hand to score a goal—an act that was missed by the referee but became one of the football legends moments of all time.
But it wasn’t just the controversial goal that made this moment memorable. Maradona followed up with one of the most incredible individual goals ever, dribbling past five English players to score another. Together, these moments showcased both football history highlights and the genius of one of the sport’s greatest icons.
2. Zinedine Zidane’s 2002 Champions League Final Volley
When Zinedine Zidane scored a magnificent volley against Bayer Leverkusen in the 2002 UEFA Champions League final, it wasn’t just a goal—it was a moment that captured the very essence of football’s beauty. With an expertly timed left-foot volley, Zidane struck the ball from outside the box, sending it into the top corner of the net.
This stunning goal helped Real Madrid secure a 2-1 victory and has since been etched into football’s collective memory. It’s a prime example of the best football moments that transcend time and place, leaving fans everywhere in awe of Zidane’s skill.
3. The 1999 Champions League Final – Manchester United’s Incredible Comeback
If there’s one match that defines the phrase “never give up,” it’s the 1999 UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester United and Bayern Munich. With Bayern leading 1-0 in the dying minutes of the match, United scored two goals in injury time to complete one of the greatest football comebacks in history.
This moment is the epitome of the unpredictability that makes football so thrilling. The match didn’t just end with a victory for United—it ended with a story of triumph that captured the heart of football fans worldwide, turning this unforgettable football match into a legend.
4. The Miracle of Istanbul – Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League Final
If United’s comeback in 1999 was stunning, then Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League final against AC Milan was nothing short of a miracle. At halftime, Liverpool was 3-0 down. But in a second-half performance that shocked the football world, they managed to equalize within six minutes, sending the match into extra time.
After a penalty shootout, Liverpool emerged victorious 3-2, in what became known as the Miracle of Istanbul. This comeback is one of the greatest football comebacks ever, proving that anything can happen in the world of football.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Header vs. Juventus (2018 Champions League)
In 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo proved once again why he’s considered one of the greatest football players of all time. In the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between Juventus and Real Madrid, Ronaldo scored a jaw-dropping header over two defenders to give Real Madrid the lead.
This incredible moment highlighted Ronaldo’s physical ability and aerial prowess, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most iconic figures in football. His performance in this match has become part of the football legends moments, reinforcing his status as a football icon.
6. Roger Milla’s Corner Flag Dance (1990 World Cup)
Not every iconic football moment is defined by the goal itself. Sometimes, it’s the celebration that becomes unforgettable. Roger Milla, the Cameroonian forward, made history in the 1990 World Cup with a cheeky corner flag dance after scoring a goal against Colombia. At 38 years old, Milla became the oldest goal scorer in World Cup history and introduced a fun, cultural touch to the game.
This football history highlight is one of the sport’s most joyful celebrations, and it became an iconic symbol of football’s global appeal.
7. Thierry Henry’s Handball vs. Ireland (2009 World Cup Qualifiers)
Not all iconic moments in football are born from celebration or victory. Some stem from controversy, and Thierry Henry’s handball during the 2009 World Cup qualifiers is one such moment. In a dramatic match between France and Ireland, Henry handled the ball to set up a goal that ultimately sent France to the 2010 World Cup.
While the incident sparked outrage, it has remained a memorable and significant moment in the ongoing conversation about fairness and officiating in football. It also plays a crucial role in football rivalries, especially between France and Ireland.
8. Brazil’s 5-0 Victory Against Bolivia (1993 Copa América)
In 1993, Brazil delivered one of the most dominant performances in football with a 5-0 win over Bolivia in the Copa América. This match showcased Brazil’s attacking flair, with creative and free-flowing football that mesmerized fans worldwide. The goals and the overall style of play made this one of the most dominant displays of top football plays ever seen.
This memorable football match remains a defining moment for Brazilian football, illustrating the beauty of the game at its finest.
9. Lionel Messi’s Solo Goal Against Getafe (2007)
In 2007, Lionel Messi made his mark in football history with a brilliant solo goal against Getafe in the Copa del Rey. Messi, much like Diego Maradona before him, dribbled through the entire Getafe defense from the halfway line before calmly finishing to score one of the most iconic football goals ever.
This goal not only brought Messi international recognition but also drew comparisons to Maradona’s famous “Goal of the Century.” It remains one of the best football moments, exemplifying Messi’s extraordinary talent and control.
10. The Rivalry Between Real Madrid and Barcelona – El Clásico
Finally, no list of iconic football moments is complete without mentioning El Clásico, the legendary rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona. The matches between these two teams are consistently full of drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments.
One such moment was Barcelona’s 5-0 victory over Real Madrid in 2010, a dominant performance that showcased Barcelona’s tiki-taka style under Pep Guardiola. This football rivalry remains one of the most heated in the world, and every El Clásico adds another chapter to the history books, delivering football moments every fan should know.
Wapping It Up
There are more than just individual games that can be defined by the famous times in football history. They show the emotion, debate, and lack of certainty that make football the “beautiful game.” These events, like a famous goal, the best return in football history, or a controversial play, bring football fans together and tell us why we love the game.
Fans remember these events for their historical relevance and emotional impact. They highlight why we watch, applaud, and enjoy football.
What’s the football moment that stands out most for you? Isn’t it exciting to think about these unforgettable events? If you’re still hungry to discover more about iconic football moments, you can dive into original football legends videos from Goal360 that tell the stories of players like Maradona and Ronaldo.
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