In goal-scoring contests, scissor kicks always hold a special place. Why? Simply put, executing a scissor kick requires the player to perform several difficult actions simultaneously. However, unlike other signature moves that are associated with the creator's name, the scissor kick is known by various names. Few things in football captivate fans like a perfectly executed scissor kick. Let's delve into Wintips' detailed compilation of "What is the best bicycle kick in football?" and the Top 10 most beautiful scissor kicks right below.
The concept of the bicycle kick in football
The "bicycle kick," also known as the "scissors kick," is one of the most unique and impressive techniques in football. However, it is also one of the most difficult maneuvers to execute, requiring precision, flexibility, and impeccable timing. If not performed correctly, players may suffer serious injuries.
In particular, the "bicycle kick" is often executed when the ball is in the air, and players must quickly decide and react in a split second. Synchronization between the body, legs, and head is crucial for successfully performing this kick.
Top 10 best bicycle kicks in football all of time
1. Cristiano Ronaldo vs Juventus
The most aesthetically pleasing bicycle kick goal ever, as voted by fans, belongs to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese forward's lightning-fast sprint into the penalty area followed by a mid-air strike left every spectator in awe and admiration.
The goal scored in the quarter-finals of the 2018 Champions League, may well be the highlight among Ronaldo's 451 goals for Real Madrid. It was this very goal that persuaded Juventus to spare no expense in signing the five-time Ballon d'Or winner at the end of that year.
2. Wayne Rooney vs Man City - Best bicycle kick in football
Goalkeeper Joe Hart was completely powerless to stop Wayne Rooney's bicycle-kick style shot. The Manchester United legend surprised everyone with a spectacular overhead kick after what seemed like a poor pass from Nani in 2011, scoring one of the most famous goals in Manchester derby history.
The connection between the passer and the shooter wasn't perfect, but Rooney's looping shot, which found the top right corner of the net, left everyone in awe of his finishing skills. Even if the English striker attempted to recreate the shot a thousand times, it would be nearly impossible to replicate such a perfect strike.
3. Gareth Bale vs Liverpool - Best bicycle kick in football
Ranked just below Ronaldo's bicycle kick masterpiece is his former Real Madrid teammate, Gareth Bale, who scored a goal that shattered Liverpool's defense in the 2018 Champions League final. It was Gareth Bale who played a significant role in Real Madrid's 3 - 1 victory over Liverpool, securing their third consecutive Champions League title.
While Ronaldo's goal was aesthetically pleasing, Bale's bicycle kick was even more impressive in terms of execution. Marcelo's cross was relatively light, but the former Welsh captain managed to contort his body and strike the ball into the net, past goalkeeper Loris Karius.
4. Trevor Sinclair vs Barnsley
Next is Trevor Sinclair's goal for Queen's Park Rangers in their FA Cup match against Barnsley in 1997. This bicycle-kick-style goal helped Sinclair win the 'Goal of the Season' award on the 'Match of the Day' program. It garnered widespread acclaim.
It was nominated for a list of the most audacious finishes in English football history. From about 20 meters out, Sinclair ran towards the goal to execute a stunning overhead kick that left the opposition's defense in disbelief. The entire stadium erupted in joy after witnessing the former Man Utd star's beautiful goal.
5. Marco van Basten vs Den Bosch - Best bicycle kick in football
The goal scored by Marco van Basten in that Eredivisie match between Ajax Amsterdam and Den Bosch in November 1986 remains etched in football history as one of the most spectacular and technically brilliant goals ever witnessed. Van Basten, a legendary Dutch striker and a three-time FIFA Ballon d'Or winner, showcased his extraordinary talent and skill in this unforgettable moment.
What makes Van Basten's goal truly exceptional is not just the context or outcome of the match, but the sheer brilliance and artistry of the execution. The goal transcended mere sport; it was a moment of pure artistry on the football field. At the time, the footballs of the 1980s were notably different from those in contemporary matches.
6. Philippe Mexes vs Anderlecht - Best bicycle kick in football
Executing a bicycle kick and turning it into a goal from outside the penalty area is no easy feat. It becomes even more difficult when the player attempting it is a center-back, such as Philippe Mexes.
In a Champions League match against Anderlecht in 2012, former AC Milan defender Mexes surprised both the defense and the goalkeeper by chesting down a pass from his teammate. He then acrobatically bicycle-kicked the ball straight into the top corner from outside the penalty area.
7. Garnacho vs Everton
Joining Manchester United legends like Wayne Rooney on the list of the best bicycle-kick goals is the rising star Alejandro Garnacho, on November 26th. His astonishing goal came just three minutes into the match, highlighting the immense talent of the 19-year-old.
At the perfect moment, Garnacho met the ball right after a pass from his teammate on the right flank, showcasing both his impressive aerial ability and precise finishing skills. Despite the efforts of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to block the shot, he couldn't reach the ball, emphasizing just how exceptional Garnacho's goal was.
8. Zlatan Ibrahimovic vs England - Best bicycle kick in football
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's stunning bicycle kick goal against England in a friendly match with Sweden in 2012 seemed almost impossible due to its difficulty. This strike was executed from a remarkable distance, approximately 27 meters away from the goal.
It was a match where Zlatan Ibrahimovic single-handedly beat the England team by scoring an impressive four goals to help Sweden secure a 4-2 victory over the Three Lions. Ibrahimovic shocked the world by sealing the victory with his incredible bicycle kick in the 92nd minute.
9. Peter Crouch vs Galatasaray - Best bicycle kick in football
With a towering height of 6ft 7in, Peter Crouch stands as one of the tallest footballers ever to grace the pitch. It should come as no surprise that he produced one of the greatest bicycle-kick goals in football history. He's renowned for his heading ability, often reaching balls that most players can only watch sail over their heads.
The English player proved his capabilities by scoring one of the most beautiful goals in UEFA Champions League history during a group-stage match against Galatasaray in 2006. It was a perfectly executed bicycle kick, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance! Peter Crouch, often seen in the number 15 jersey, has stated that this is one of his greatest goals.
10. Mario Mandzukic vs Real Madrid
In the 2017 Champions League final between Juventus and Real Madrid, Juventus were under pressure after conceding an early goal. The Italian side needed something special to turn the tide and get back into the match. Mandzukic's goal was not just a shot but an artistic masterpiece, from his positioning, high jump, and beating Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
The powerful and accurate volley left Navas with no chance to save. As the ball hit the net, the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff erupted in excitement and jubilation from the Juventus fans. This goal not only brought hope but also made a strong statement for Juventus, showing that they were not willing to give up easily and would fight until the final whistle.
Conclusion
In addition to the classic names "La Chilena" and "La Chalaca," the scissor kick is also known by many other names such as "Overhead kick," "Scissors kick," and "Rovesciata" (the Italian term for scissor kick). Above are some facts about the most beautiful scissor kicks in history that we want to share with you. We hope this information helps you understand more about this topic. Visit the bookmaker top 100 websites daily for more interesting sports news updates.
See also: The best footballers nicknames ever - Did you know?
