The World Cup is the biggest event in football, and fans around the world wait for the tournament to witness unforgettable moments on the pitch. Amongst these moments, the goals scored during the tournament are what leave the biggest mark in people’s minds. There have been some incredible goals throughout the years, but some have stood out more than others. Let’s take a look at some of the best football goals in World Cup history.
1. Diego Maradona, Argentina vs. England (1986)
Maradona’s goal against England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals is considered one of the best goals ever scored. He took the ball from the midfield and dribbled past five English players before slotting it into the net past the goalkeeper. The goal is often referred to as the “Goal of the Century” and has been replayed numerous times over the years.
2. Carlos Alberto, Brazil vs. Italy (1970)
In the final of the 1970 World Cup, Carlos Alberto scored one of the most iconic goals in the history of the tournament. In the 86th minute, he received a pass from Pele and hit a powerful shot into the net from around 25 yards out. The goal sealed the win for Brazil and is remembered for the incredible build-up play that led to it.
3. Dennis Bergkamp, Netherlands vs. Argentina (1998)
Bergkamp’s goal in the quarter-finals of the 1998 World Cup is one of the most memorable goals in the tournament’s history. With just a few minutes left in the game, he controlled a long ball from Frank de Boer with a superb first touch, then cut inside the defender and finished past the goalkeeper with his weaker foot. The goal was a masterclass in technique and skill and secured the Netherlands’ place in the semi-finals.
4. Pele, Brazil vs. Sweden (1958)
In the final of the 1958 World Cup, the 17-year-old Pele scored a goal that would go down in history. He received the ball on the edge of the box and went past two defenders before chipping the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net. The goal was a sign of things to come, as Pele went on to become one of the greatest footballers of all time.
5. Esteban Cambiasso, Argentina vs. Serbia and Montenegro (2006)
In the group stage of the 2006 World Cup, Argentina produced one of the best team goals ever scored in the tournament. The move started with a throw-in near the halfway line and involved 24 passes between nine Argentina players before Cambiasso finished the move off with a cool finish. The goal was a showcase of Argentina’s passing ability and teamwork and will be remembered for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The World Cup has provided us with some of the most memorable moments in football, but it’s the goals that have left an indelible mark in our minds. The goals listed above are just some of the best goals ever scored in the tournament, and there are many more that could have made this list. Every World Cup produces moments of magic, and we can only wait to see what amazing goals the next tournament has in store for us.
