One of the most iconic team goals in World Cup history came from the feet (and hand) of the legendary Argentinean player, Diego Maradona. In the 1986 quarter-final match against England, Maradona scored a goal that would be forever remembered as the “Hand of God” goal. Taking advantage of a momentary lapse in refereeing, Maradona punched the ball into the net with his hand, fooling the officials and securing the lead for Argentina. This controversial goal highlights the audacity and skill of Maradona, and remains one of the most talked-about moments in World Cup history.
When discussing classic World Cup team goals, Brazil is a team that often comes to mind. In the 1970 World Cup final against Italy, Brazil showcased their renowned style of play, known as “Joga Bonito,” with a stunning team goal. The play started with a quick interchange of passes between players like Pelé, Tostão, and Jairzinho, culminating in a precise finish by Carlos Alberto. This goal demonstrated Brazil's fluid and skillful style of play, which captivated audiences worldwide and solidified their status as one of the greatest football teams of all time.
In the 2014 World Cup semi-final match against Brazil, Germany stunned the world with a masterful display of counterattacking football. One of the most memorable moments of the match was Miroslav Klose breaking the all-time World Cup goal-scoring record, but it was the team goal by Germany that truly showcased their tactical brilliance. The play started with a lightning-quick counterattack, with precise passes between the German players, eventually finding the feet of Sami Khedira, who calmly slotted the ball into the net. This exceptional team goal exemplified Germany's ability to swiftly transition from defense to attack and left spectators in awe.
Spain revolutionized the football world with their possession-based style of play, known as “tiki-taka,” during the 2010 World Cup. In the final against the Netherlands, Spain scored an exquisite team goal that epitomized their unique brand of football. The play involved a series of quick and precise passes, with players like Xavi Hernandez, Andrés Iniesta, and David Villa exchanging the ball in tight spaces. Ultimately, the ball found its way to Iniesta, who coolly finished and secured Spain's first-ever World Cup triumph. This goal showcased Spain's ability to dominate possession and dismantle defenses, solidifying their place as one of the greats.
The Netherlands' team goal against Brazil in the 1974 World Cup is hailed as one of the greatest team goals in football history. Led by Johan Cruyff, the Dutch players showcased their innovative and fluid style of play known as “Total Football.” In the play, Cruyff initiated a mesmerizing passing sequence that involved multiple players, creating confusion and disarray in the Brazilian defense. This culminated in a delicate finish by Cruyff's teammate, finishing off a move that embodied the beauty and effectiveness of Total Football.
Argentina produced a beautiful team goal in the 2018 World Cup against Nigeria, with Lionel Messi at the heart of the play. The goal began with Argentina's trademark possession-based style, involving quick one-touch passes between the players. As the ball made its way towards the penalty box, Messi showcased his individual brilliance by artfully evading Nigerian defenders before calmly finishing the move himself. This team goal highlighted both Argentina's teamwork and Messi's exceptional skill, reminding the world why he is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
