Euro 2012 might be over, but it provided the fans with some cracking games, and of course, some amazing goals! Danny Welbeck’s brilliant back-heel against Sweden, Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s amazing volley against France and Mario Balotelli’s thunderous strike against Germany are a few that come to mind.
All-in-all, 76 goals were scored in this year’s European Championship, at an average of 2.45 goals per match.
Here are some of the most memorable, breathtaking goals – the best of the best – from Euro 2012:
Andrea Pirlo’s ‘Panenka’ Penalty
With the scores level at 0-0 at the end of extra-time in Italy’s quarter-final against England, Andrea ‘Balls of Steel’ Pirlo stepped up to take his side’s 3rd penalty kick, calmly chipping the ball into the goal over a diving Joe Hart. Pirlo, as usual, just oozing cool and calm here. Very cheeky from the veteran.
Sami Khedira’s Volley
Germany destroyed underdogs Greece in the quarter-final, scoring 4 goals in a game in which they should’ve had a lot more. Sami Khedira was on a scoresheet for Germany, with this superbly-taken volley.
Philipp Lahm’s Long-Range Stunner
Philipp Lahm, of all people, opened the scoring (and the floodgates) for Germany in their quarter-final game against Greece with this well-taken long-range effort.
(video clip unavailable)
Danny Welbeck’s Backheel
Sweden were firmly in control of the proceedings in their group game against England, and were leading 2-1. However the introduction to Theo Walcott turned things around and England eventually went on to win the game 3-2. Welbeck scored this sublime backheel goal off a Theo Walcott pass. Great stuff from the youngster, who was one of the standout players for the Three Lions.
Roman Pavlyuchenko’s Solo Effort
The opening day of Euro 2012 provided plenty of excitement, as Russia destroyed the Czech Republic 4-1 in the second game of the day, with Tottenham Hotspur outcast Roman Pavlyuchencko scoring this great goal.
Marco Reus’s Excellent Finish
Marco Reus’ scored the 4th and final goal for Germany in their 4-1 quarter-final demolition job against Greece, and what a fine finish it was!
Mario Balotelli’s Venomous Strike
Germany’s Manuel Neuer, one of the world’s best goalkeepers, could do very little about this powerful strike by Italy’s Balotelli as it was past him in a flash! Great ball from Ricardo Montolivo though.
Andrea Pirlo’s Freekick
Hardly a surprise that Pirlo’s name is featured twice on the list. Pirlo’s skill at display here, as he sends in a wonderful curled effort into the back of the net, ensuring Italy’s progress to the Euro 2012 quarter-finals.
Mario Gomez’s Superb Control
Mario Gomez scored some important goals for Germany, one of them being this goal against the Netherlands in the group stages. Outstanding close control and some great bit of skills from the Bayern Munich frontman!
Jordi Alba’s Fine Run and Finish
Spain sure saved their best for last! The Spanish humiliated Italy in the final, winning 4-0. Jordi Alba, Spain’s left-back, made an excellent run and capped it off with this well-taken goal. Credit to Xavi for a brilliant, perfectly-timed and well-weighted pass.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Header
How can any list be complete without this man’s name on it! Ronaldo fired his team into the semi-finals, setting up a date with Spain, thanks to this diving header off a good cross by Joao Moutinho. Credit though to a resilient Czech Republic who were able to keep the Portuguese at bay for most of the game.
Mario Balotelli’s Volley
Balotelli also scored this beautiful goal – and improvised volley – off a corner against Republic if Ireland. The keeper had absolutely no chance!
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s Scissor Volley
A moment of sheer brilliance (probably his only one at this year’s Euros!) from Ibrahimovic. Brilliant goal, probably my pick for goal-of-the-tournament!
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(Goal clips/videos courtesy 101greatgoals.com. All other videos and clips credited to original uploaders.)
(Disclaimer: No copyright infringements intended.)
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