Bicycle kicks have always been one of the most spectacular and breathtaking moves in football, and throughout history, several players have produced unforgettable goals using this acrobatic technique. From Zlatan Ibrahimović’s stunning 30-yard bicycle kick to Cristiano Ronaldo’s awe-inspiring strike against Juventus, here’s a look at five of the greatest bicycle kick goals in football history.
5 highest ranked bicycle kick goals in football history
1. Zlatan Ibrahimović v England (2012)
Zlatan Ibrahimović‘s iconic bicycle kick against England in a 2012 friendly match is often regarded as one of the greatest goals ever scored. The Swedish striker launched himself into the air and connected with the ball from around 30 yards out, sending it into the net with incredible precision. This goal earned him the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award in 2013, receiving 48.7% of the vote, and remains a benchmark for bicycle kick goals in football.
2. Alejandro Garnacho vs Everton (2023)
Argentinian winger Alejandro Garnacho scored a beautifully crafted bicycle kick against Everton in the Premier League; it was a thing of beauty. Diogo Dalot was perfect with the cross and Garnacho, sensing the precise moment, aced his bicycle for the ball to go back into the net. He showed some flair and great athleticism and made it into one of the best bicycle kicks this year.
3. Wayne Rooney vs Manchester City (2011)
It remains the most sensational goal, maybe in the history of Premier League matches, because Wayne Rooney was able to shoot with a bicycle kick a precise cross by Nani past Manchester City’s defenses to send the ball soaring into the net in that highly-charged derby 2011. The match had not only awarded three points to United but has also etched a vivid moment in the history of the Manchester derby.
4. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Juventus (2018)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s bicycle against Juventus in the quarterfinals of the 2018 UEFA Champions League is one moment of sheer brilliance in football. With Dani Carvajal’s well-timed cross, Ronaldo sprang up high into the air to hit a flawless bicycle kick, leaving Gianluigi Buffon, Juventus’ goalkeeper, with nothing to do. The goal was so brilliant that the Juventus fans applauded for Ronaldo’s sheer athleticism and technique on the field.
5. Jude Bellingham vs Slovakia (2024)
The young star of England, Jude Bellingham, scored a crucial bicycle kick against Slovakia in the Round of 16 of UEFA Euro 2024. This goal was very important in taking England to the next stage of the tournament. The acrobatic finish from Bellingham highlighted his composure and technical ability. It was one of the moments of brilliance from one of the brightest talents in European football.
These five bicycle kick goals are the epitome of skill and audacity in football. From Zlatan’s audacity to Ronaldo’s robotic precision, each of these goals will be remembered as part of the beautiful game’s rich history.
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