While football is a game, it is an international passion that has had many unforgettable moments. Among the moments in the history of football that have stayed in people's minds are those touching incredible goals or unbelievable comebacks.
Football is a cult in almost all over the world. It, therefore, becomes a moment which is symbolic, transcending sport to the popular culture, leaving an engraving in their brains that the fans will never forget. The following are some of the most iconic football moments which still linger in the minds of people.
Probably the most controversial moment in football history is the 1986 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England, wherein one of the greatest footballers ever, Diego Maradona, scored a goal with the help of his hand and famously described it as "The Hand of God." The goal was given, even after protests by the English players, and Argentina went on to win that match 2-1.
The infamous goal was followed up with another by Maradona, now named the ‘Goal of the Century,’ where he took on and beat five English players to score a stunning solo effort. This moment has been recreated many times since then.
The final of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, between France and Italy, was a closely guarded affair; however, the whole world would never forget that one utter incredulous moment when a headbutt by Zinedine Zidane was seen. In extra time, one of the all-time greats turned around to headbutt Italian defender Marco Materazzi in the chest after some exchange of words. Zidane saw red, and the rest of the game was a shadow.
The final Sunday of the 2011-2012 Premier League season remains very vividly etched in the memory due to its pulsating ending. Manchester City had drawn level on points with Manchester United, but City topped due to their good goal difference. On the final day, City needed a win against Queens Park Rangers, QPR, to confirm their first league title in 44 years. The game was tied 2-2 deep into stoppage time and the title seemed about to slip away.
Cristiano Ronaldo has had a complete career made out of magic moments, but throughout the goals he has scored in his career, there is definitely one that stands out. Cristiano Ronaldo performed an incredible bicycle kick against Juventus for Real Madrid in the 2018 UEFA Champions League quarter-final match. Fans and players alike were left in a state of shock, with the Juventus faithful even joining in to give a standing ovation to Ronaldo despite the fact that the goal was against them.
In 2012, Lionel Messi did the impossible: he reached an outstanding total of 91 goals during this calendar year, outpacing Gerd Müller's previous best of 85 back in 1972. Messi scored a number of those for his club, FC Barcelona, and for the Argentine national team. Using great consistency, skill, and an ability to find the net with nearly every different manner with the ball.
These have grown into football folklore. They remind us of why we love the game-its unpredictability, drama, and ways of conjuring up pure magic that would be remembered for generations.
