AFCON 2025
The year 2024 witnessed a series of remarkable goals that captivated football fans worldwide.
Here are five standout strikes that defined the year.
1. Alejandro Garnacho’s Bicycle Kick Against Everton
In a Premier League clash, Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho stunned the crowd with an exquisite bicycle kick against Everton. Positioned perfectly, Garnacho connected with a lofted cross from Bruno Fernandes, sending the ball soaring into the top corner. The goal won the FIFA Puskás Award awarded for the best goal scored in a calendar year.
2. Lamine Yamal’s Curler Against France
In the European Championship semi-final, 16-year-old Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal scored an extraordinary goal against France. From 25 yards out, he unleashed a sublime shot that arced around defender Adrien Rabiot and brushed the inside of the post, leveling the score and shifting momentum in Spain’s favor.
3. Cole Palmer’s 40-Yard Lob Against Everton
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer showcased his exceptional vision and technique with a hat-trick against Everton.
The highlight was his third goal—a 40-yard lob over goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, completing a perfect hat-trick in under 30 minutes.
4. Bellingham’s overhead kick against Slovakia
Jude Bellingham’s stunning bicycle kick in the Round of 16 of the Euro 2024 against Slovakia has been hailed as one of the best goals of the year.
With the score tied and England under pressure, Bellingham leaped into the air to connect with a high cross, sending the ball past the Slovakian goalkeeper with incredible accuracy.
His technique and composure in such a critical moment helped secure a vital 2-1 victory for England, sending them to the quarterfinals.
5. Enzo Fernandez’s free kick against Aston Villa
Enzo Fernández’s exceptional free kick against Aston Villa in the FA Cup fourth-round replay on February 7, 2024, was a standout moment in Chelsea’s 3-1 victory. The Argentine midfielder’s precise and powerful strike from just outside the box left Villa’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, with no chance. This goal not only secured Chelsea’s progression in the tournament but also earned Fernández the Goal of the Month award for February 2024.
