The World Cup has produced some of football’s most breathtaking moments, and among them, the Netherlands and Argentina share a storied rivalry. As the two nations prepare to meet in the quarter-finals, the echoes of iconic goals from their past clashes, such as Dennis Bergkamp’s 1998 stunner, add extra drama to the fixture. Such moments continue to define the tournament’s magic.
This rivalry is just one chapter in the broader story of legendary World Cup goals. From long-range strikes to dazzling solo efforts, these moments have etched themselves into football history. Here, we revisit some of the greatest goals ever scored in the World Cup, celebrated for their skill, context, and sheer brilliance.
Saeed Al-Owairan: Saudi Arabia v Belgium (1994)
Saeed Al-Owairan delivered a goal for the ages during Saudi Arabia’s first World Cup. Starting deep in his own half, he embarked on an astonishing solo run, beating five defenders before slotting the ball past Belgium’s Michel Preud’homme. Alan Shearer hailed it as “a very special goal,” and its sheer improbability secures its place in the pantheon of iconic World Cup moments.
Josimar: Brazil v Northern Ireland (1986)
Brazilian defender Josimar stunned Northern Ireland with an extraordinary long-range strike in 1986. Finding no opening, he unleashed a powerful shot that soared past goalkeeper Pat Jennings and into the top corner. Whether by instinct or audacity, the goal remains a testament to the unexpected brilliance of football, earning admiration from fans and pundits alike.
Nelinho: Brazil v Italy (1978)
Was it a shot or a cross? Regardless, Nelinho’s curving strike for Brazil against Italy in 1978 was a jaw-dropping spectacle. Using the outside of his foot, he sent the ball curling past Dino Zoff from a seemingly impossible angle. Alan Shearer called it “unbelievable,” and the goal’s mystique continues to captivate fans decades later.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst: Netherlands v Uruguay (2010)
Dutch captain Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s thunderous strike in the 2010 semi-finals against Uruguay defied all expectations. From well outside the box, the left-back unleashed a perfectly struck shot into the far corner. The goal, described by Gary Lineker as an “absolute stonker,” showcased the power and precision of a true World Cup classic.
Michael Owen: England v Argentina (1998)
A teenage Michael Owen announced himself on the global stage with a dazzling solo effort against Argentina in 1998. Collecting a pass from David Beckham, Owen weaved past defenders with remarkable pace and composure before delivering a stunning finish. Alan Shearer praised his “ability to finish it off,” marking it as a career-defining moment.
Dennis Bergkamp: Netherlands v Argentina (1998)
Dennis Bergkamp’s goal against Argentina in the 1998 quarter-finals remains a masterpiece of skill and composure. Controlling Frank de Boer’s long pass with surgical precision, Bergkamp turned inside Roberto Ayala before deftly finishing with the outside of his foot. The Dutch commentary, immortalized on YouTube, captures the exhilaration of this unforgettable moment.
Carlos Alberto: Brazil v Italy (1970)
Carlos Alberto’s goal in the 1970 World Cup final exemplifies football artistry. Capping off a fluid team move, Pele’s perfectly timed pass found Alberto, who struck a powerful, low shot into the corner of the net. Alan Shearer’s top choice for its beauty and importance, it’s often regarded as the greatest team goal in World Cup history.
Benjamin Pavard: France v Argentina (2018)
Benjamin Pavard’s strike for France in the 2018 World Cup epitomized technical excellence. Striking the ball with the outside of his foot, Pavard delivered a clean, curling shot into the top corner, leaving fans and commentators in awe. Named Goal of the Tournament, it cemented Pavard’s place in World Cup lore.
James Rodriguez: Colombia v Uruguay (2014)
James Rodriguez’s stunning volley in 2014 highlighted his brilliance as Colombia’s talisman. Taking the ball on his chest outside the box, Rodriguez swiveled and fired an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Praised for its technique and execution, this goal secured his status as one of the tournament’s standout stars.
Diego Maradona: Argentina v England (1986)
Diego Maradona’s mesmerizing solo effort against England in 1986 remains a symbol of football genius. Dribbling from midfield, he evaded multiple defenders before rounding Peter Shilton to score. Described by Shearer as “pure genius,” it’s widely regarded as the greatest goal in World Cup history, showcasing Maradona’s unmatched talent.
From Al-Owairan’s solo sprint to Maradona’s iconic genius, these goals capture the essence of World Cup drama. Each one reflects the skill, creativity, and emotion that make the tournament so beloved. As the Netherlands and Argentina meet again, fans can only hope for another unforgettable moment to add to this illustrious list.
