Soccer is a global game filled with moments each and every year. But as is the case with just about any sport, there are some moments that will last forever.
Here are some of the biggest moments in the history of soccer. These are the kind of moments that die-hard fans would love to have been in attendance for.
“Hand of God”
There may be no bigger moment than Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” during the 1986 World Cup. A legend in Argentinian soccer, he has no shortage of great goals. But arguably the goal of the century was scored just four minutes after putting the ball past Peter Shilton using his little pinky.
Because of the goal, Argentina would go on to capture its second World Cup title. But that goal is still arguably the most memorable moment in a sport full of legendary moments.
Manchester City’s First Premier League Title
This is a new one, having happened in 2011-12. Sergio Aguero scored a winner in the final minute on the last day of the 2011-12 season. Manchester United, who thought they had won the league title, watched as the goal that secured a title was scored.
In the years since, Manchester City has established its dominance of the Premier League. It was with this championship-winning goal that their ascension to dominance truly began.
Liverpool’s Comeback
Liverpool has no shortage of historical moments. But in the 2005 Champions League Final, trailing Milan 3-0 at halftime, it seemed that all hope was lost. Steven Gerrard starting the scoring for Liverpool gave them hope.
Vladimir Smicer cut the lead to one and, just minutes later, Liverpool would receive a penalty that was saved by the goaltender Dida. Xabi Alonso would step up and get the equalizer in order to send the match into a dramatic extra time.
There, Jerzy Dudek became a hero, making a double save that preserved the tie. His efforts were decisive in giving Liverpool their fifth Champion’s League title.