Outstanding Football Goals of 2016: Top Four Unforgettable Strikes
Each year uncovers a new collection of jaw-dropping football goals, and 2016 was no exception. Among countless spectacular moments, a select few stood out for their creativity, technical skill, and sheer brilliance on the pitch. Here are four goals from 2016 that captured the imagination of fans and critics alike.
Dimitri Payet’s Free-Kick Magic Against Crystal Palace
In early 2016, Dimitri Payet delivered one of the most remarkable free-kicks the Premier League has witnessed. Just days after scoring a stunning strike for France in a friendly, Payet lined up against Crystal Palace with expectations running high. What followed was a masterclass in dead-ball technique. From a seemingly impossible angle, Payet curled the ball with such precision and power that even though the goalkeeper was well-positioned, he had little hope of making a save. The ball’s movement deceived everyone—it appeared to be sailing over the crossbar before dipping spectacularly at the last moment to clip the bar and nestle in the net. This memorable strike highlighted Payet’s flair and technical prowess.
An Electrifying Solo Effort: Payet vs. Middlesbrough
Dimitri Payet’s solo goal against Middlesbrough remains one of the Premier League’s most mesmerizing moments of 2016. The play began with an incisive pass from Winston Reid, deftly controlled by Payet. What followed was a dazzling run where Payet showcased close control and intelligence, evading multiple defenders in rapid succession. Under pressure from Antonio Barragán, Payet twisted and turned, leaving Barragán disoriented. He then executed a clever feint, sending Gastón Ramírez to the ground, before fooling Calum Chambers with feisty step-overs. Facing still more challenges, Payet maintained composure, dribbled past George Friend with another feint, and beat the goalkeeper with a precise finish despite the crowded penalty area. Navigating through nearly half of Middlesbrough’s defensive line, Payet’s creativity and finesse made this goal a contender for the season’s very best.
Saúl Ñíguez Stuns Bayern Munich in the Champions League
The Champions League semi-final clash between Atlético Madrid and Bayern Munich featured one of the most talked-about goals of 2016. With Atlético as underdogs, Saúl Ñíguez rose to the occasion with a breathtaking solo run. Collecting the ball near midfield, Saúl surged forward, slipping away from the pursuit of Thiago Alcântara with deft footwork. As two more Bayern defenders closed in, he demonstrated exceptional control and balance, gliding past both with quick touches. Approaching the box, Saúl then shifted the ball onto his left foot, paused momentarily to set up his shot, and picked his spot perfectly, sending the ball off the far post and over the line. This defining goal secured a vital first-leg advantage and showcased the Spanish midfielder’s tremendous talent.
Xherdan Shaqiri’s Sensational Bicycle Kick at Euro 2016
International tournaments often deliver moments of pure magic, and Xherdan Shaqiri’s bicycle kick for Switzerland against Poland at Euro 2016 was a perfect example. With the ball looping high after a defensive clearance, Shaqiri needed lightning-fast reflexes to improvise. Timing his leap with precision, he met the ball mid-air with an acrobatic kick, sending it flying into the bottom corner with remarkable power and accuracy. Unlike bicycle kicks that players set up for themselves, this strike required exceptional anticipation and execution, as Shaqiri could only react instinctively to the opportunity. The quality and difficulty of this goal made it one of the standout highlights of the tournament, earning widespread acclaim from fans and pundits.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Best Goals of 2016
From stunning solo efforts to moments of technical brilliance, 2016 produced football goals that will live long in the memory. Whether delivered on the Premier League stage, the Champions League’s biggest nights, or Europe’s grandest international tournament, these goals exemplified the artistry and excitement that define the world’s most popular sport. Each strike showcased not only the skill and determination of the individual players but also the universal thrill that comes with witnessing football at its very best.
