Top 5 Bicycle Kicks of All-Time

By Luca Cocuccio

 

As a big fan of football, I wanted my first Young Reporter article to focus on the skill and excitement of the game. So, to get going, I've decided to dive into the wild world of bicycle kicks and bring you the top 5 jaw-dropping moments that made me scream, "Are you kidding me?"

But before we kick off, let's break it down for the newbies: a bicycle kick is the kind of move that turns an ordinary goal into an instant masterpiece. Picture this: players contort their bodies mid-air, legs swinging like a pendulum, connecting with the ball in an acrobatic frenzy fuelled by pure adrenalin. It's not just a goal; it's a gravity-defying, heart-stopping work of art that keeps us glued to the edge of our seats. So, buckle up, because we're about to relive some of the most insane goals ever!

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden) Vs England (2012 International Friendly):

Imagine this: Zlatan, the man known for his football swagger, pulls off a bicycle kick that's basically a work of art. In 2012, against England, he defied gravity, soared through the air, and sent the ball flying from over 30 yards out. Seriously, it was like he had a date with the net, and he wasn't taking no for an answer!

Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid) Vs Juventus (UEFA Champions League 17/18 Quarter-Final):

Now, we all know Ronaldo is a living legend, right? Well, in 2018, he decided to remind everyone by scoring a goal against Juventus that's still giving defenders nightmares. His bicycle kick was so out-of-this-world that even the Juventus fans couldn't help but give him a standing ovation. I mean, come on, that's when you know it's next-level good!

Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United) Vs Everton (Premier League 23/24):

Hold up, a young gun making the list? Oh yes! Alejandro Garnacho pulled off a bicycle kick for the ages against Everton in 2023. People are saying it's even better than what Rooney and Ronaldo did. Yep, a rising star putting his own spin on the classic bicycle kick – talk about rewriting the history books!

Rivaldo (FC Barcelona) Vs Valencia (La Liga 2001):

Picture this: It's 2001, and Barcelona is in a tight spot against Valencia. Then, out of nowhere, Rivaldo not only secures a hat-trick but also sends shockwaves through the football world with a last-minute bicycle kick. I'm talking about the stuff legends are made of, folks.

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United) Vs Manchester City (Premier League 2011):

Ah, the Premier League magic! In 2011, Rooney goes full-on superhero with an iconic bicycle kick against Manchester City. It's not just a goal; it's a declaration of pure football genius. The net didn't stand a chance, and neither did our eardrums after all the screaming!

These goals aren't just about scoring; they're about rewriting the rules of physics and giving us moments that'll be replayed for generations. So, here's to the magic, audacity, and skill that make football the beautiful game we can't get enough of!