The bicycle kick also known as the overhead kick requires great skill and athleticism which makes it one of the most difficult skills to execute in football. The origin of the bicycle kick is still a topic of debate, but during the second half of the twentieth century, the bicycle kick was brought into limelight by Pele.
It is considered as one of the most iconic moves in football. These are five footballers who have been able to perform this iconic move with great prowess.
#5 Wayne Rooney
The former captain of England scored an amazing goal for Manchester United against Manchester City in 2011. He surprised his manager and the world by displaying great athleticism and speed.
Rooney was not in top form then and he considers it as one of his most important goals for Manchester United. The Red Devils went on to win the Premier League title.
In an interview with SkySports Rooney talked about the thoughts running through his mind when he made the goal. He said,
#4 Philippe Mexes
Philippe Mexes’ bicycle kick is considered one of the finest in recent times. He netted a goal against Anderlecht in 2012 and that was his only goal in the Champion’s League.
Controlling a long free-kick on his chest, Mexes goes for goal from outside the box, looping the ball over Sylvio Proto into the far corner. The defender shocked many as he netted the winning goal for AC Milan.
While talking to the Telegraph, Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said,
#3 Xherdan Shaqiri
Xherdan Shaqiri created a moment of magic in Euro 2016 when he scored a goal using the bicycle kick. Unfortunately, the Swiss player’s amazing goal didn’t help his team win the match.
But the match was lit up by the extraordinary kick and it also helped boost the player’s popularity.
In an interview with news.com.au he said that he was proud he scored for his country.
Shaqiri is also known as the Alpine Messi and he is unpredictable with the ball. Currently he plays as a winger for Stoke City in the Premier League.
#2 Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo proved his mettle once again by scoring for his club Real Madrid against Juventus in the first leg of the quarterfinals in the UEFA Champion’s League. The entire stadium gave him a standing ovation, acknowledging his moment of magic.
Ronaldo reportedly started practicing the overhead kick just 24 hours before the match and due to his excellent work ethic he was able to execute this amazing skill. His hard-work paid off in style as Real Madrid defeated Juventus.
While talking to the BBC about the moment of brilliance, Ronaldo stated;
#1 Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s 30-yard bicycle kick is the one which tops the list. The Swede scored against England during an international friendly match in 2012.
It is easy to get bored in an international friendly but due to the Swede’s 30-yard stunner, this particular match will live on in our minds.
The former Swedish captain is a creative, acrobatic and prolific goalscorer with unusually quick feet for a man his size.
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