Summary of 10 best goal save ever in football history
Goalkeepers hold one of the toughest jobs in football, serving as the last line of defence to prevent the ball from crossing the goal line. While often underrated, they occasionally make saves that go down in history. Among these is what is widely regarded as the best goal save ever in football history—Gordon Banks’ legendary stop against Pelé in the 1970 World Cup. From René Higuita’s ‘scorpion kick’ against England in 1995 to Gianluigi Buffon’s heroic save in the 2006 World Cup final, we at Football Fancast, alongside Kingsoccertips.com, reflect on the ten best saves of all time.
Ranking the 10 greatest saves of all time
10. René Higuita Vs England, 1995
What was supposed to be a low-key, unimportant friendly against England in 1995, one that might have been forgotten, Colombian goalkeeper René Higuita turned into an unforgettable spectacle. Renowned as a pioneer of the ‘sweeper keeper’ role, Higuita was celebrated for his eccentric and often eccentric style, capable of creating extraordinary moments or potentially disastrous ones for his team.
The decisive moment came when England’s Jamie Redknapp played a lifeless pass into the penalty area. While a conventional goalkeeper might have opted for a conventional save, Higuita, true to his rebellious spirit, chose a different path. Leaping forward, he swung his leg back in mid-air, executing what would later be immortalised as the “scorpion kick”, a spectacular and unorthodox way of clearing the ball. This daring display of goalkeeping prowess not only thwarted an English attack but also captured the attention of the global media, forever etching Higuita’s name into football lore. The scorpion kick has become synonymous with Higuita’s bold and unconventional approach to his role, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the beautiful game.
9. Jan Oblak Vs Bayer Leverkusen, 2017
Atlético Madrid’s Slovenian goalkeeper, Jan Oblak, has been one of the best goalkeepers in his position over the past decade. His exceptional skills were on full display in the 2017 UEFA Champions League round of 16, cementing his reputation as a goalkeeping master.
Facing Bayer Leverkusen in the second leg, Atlético Madrid were aiming to defend their place after winning the first leg. The pressure was on, and Oblak faced a fierce attack from the German side. In a remarkable sequence, he not only made a crucial save but also astonishingly blocked three shots in a row.
The importance of Oblak’s performance was demonstrated when, after the ball went out of play, Oblak collapsed exhausted to the ground. His teammates, recognising the enormous effort he had put in, expressed their recognition and appreciation. This memorable performance not only helped Atlético Madrid progress but also cemented Jan Oblak’s status as a goalkeeper with extraordinary skill and resilience on the big stage of the Champions League.
8. Ben Amos Vs Shrewsbry Town, 2018
In a fascinating moment in the match between Shrewsbury Town and Charlton, Shrewsbury’s Stefan Payne seized an opportunity in the penalty area, cleverly feinting a shot to create space. The move left Charlton goalkeeper Ben Amos sprawled on the grass, seemingly vulnerable to attack.
With an open net beckoning, Payne aimed to take advantage of the situation. However, in a remarkable feat of reflexes, Amos, with his back to the ball, defied all odds by rising to his feet and miraculously blocking Payne’s effort.
The ball, which hit the post, looked destined to go in, but Amos, undeterred, blocked Payne’s follow-up effort, demonstrating a combination of agility and determination. Despite Amos’ heroics, the result did not go Charlton’s way, with Shrewsbury Town winning 1-0.
7. Jim Montgomery Vs Leeds United, 1973
Sunderland’s FA Cup final victory over Leeds is etched in the memories of Sunderland fans across the globe. Jim Montgomery’s heroics were pivotal in their 1-0 win. In a crucial moment, Leeds’ Cherry attempted a header from six yards out, but Montgomery’s incredible save was saved by him.
Lorimer’s counter-attack was swift, but Montgomery, who showed lightning-quick reflexes, got up to push the shot against the crossbar. The incredible sequence left the TV commentators puzzled, as they were quick to award the goal.
Montgomery’s brilliant save of two close-range shots sealed a historic victory for Sunderland and earned him a special place in the club’s history.
6. Iker Casillas Vs Sevilla, 2009
In a remarkable display of athleticism, Iker Casillas made one of the greatest saves in La Liga history against Sevilla. The goal looked inevitable as the cross was sent into the net, but Casillas leapt like a salmon and prevented Diego Perotti from scoring.
Despite his brilliant save from Perotti, Real Madrid were still defeated 2-1. Casillas, showing incredible agility, raced across the penalty area to block what looked like a sure shot.
His timely and acrobatic intervention left the crowd in awe. Although Real Madrid could not win, Casillas’ remarkable save was enough to prove that he should be regarded as one of the greatest players to play between the sticks.
5. David Seaman Vs Sheffield United, 2003
After conceding a memorable free-kick to Ronaldinho at the 2002 World Cup, David Seaman faced doubts about his ability to continue playing at the highest level. However, a year later, Seaman silenced the doubters and showed his enduring skills.
In the FA Cup semi-final between Arsenal and Sheffield United, Seaman celebrated his 1,000th appearance in football. With Arsenal leading 1-0, Sheffield United won a corner, leading to chaos in the penalty area.
As the ball fell to Paul Peschisolido, opening up an empty goal, an equaliser for the Blades seemed imminent. However, against all odds and against time, Seaman performed a spectacular diving move, put his hands behind the ball and incredibly lifted it off the line. This remarkable save ensured Arsenal’s progression and eventual FA Cup victory that year.
4. Peter Schmeichel Vs Rapid Vienna, 1996
Peter Schmeichel is a goalkeeper who could have made this list five times. Renowned for his many extraordinary saves, he left an indelible mark with a particularly impressive save in a 1996 UEFA Champions League group stage match while playing for Manchester United against Austria’s Rapid Vienna.
The moment came when a cross was expertly passed to René Wagner, who pounced and connected powerfully with his head. The crowd erupted in cheers, anticipating a goal for Rapid Vienna. However, Schmeichel, showing incredible agility and reflexes, moved to the left and quickly dived down the right.
Against all odds, he gathered the strength to push the ball high and wide, denying Rapid Vienna a sure goal. Even before that, it was clear that Schmeichel was one of the best players in the world. This is just a gentle reminder for those who might think otherwise.
3. Gianluigi Buffon Vs Pháp, 2006
In a pivotal moment in the 2006 World Cup final between Italy and France, Gianluigi Buffon showed the world what he was capable of, on the biggest stage. Faced with a threatening pass from Willy Sagnol, Buffon found himself face-to-face with the legendary Zinedine Zidane, who unleashed a powerful and precise header (at the ball, not at Marco Materazzi’s chest).
In a flash of reaction, Buffon leapt acrobatically into the air, managing to tip the rocket header over the crossbar with incredible agility and precision. This crucial save proved pivotal in Italy’s victory, ultimately securing their World Cup victory that year.
Buffon’s exceptional performance throughout the tournament did not go unnoticed, and he was named the tournament’s best goalkeeper. The 2006 World Cup final may be remembered for other things, but Italy would not have won without the great man himself.
2. Grégory Coupet Vs Barcelona, 2001
In a memorable Champions League encounter with Barcelona in 2001, Lyon defender Caçapa was caught in a dangerous situation after a misplaced pass while trying to block Rivaldo. His inadvertent flick of the ball past Lyon goalkeeper Grégory Coupet left the Frenchman facing a challenging dilemma, unsure whether he would be able to use his hands when the ball came from his team-mate.
In a display of incredible reflexes and improvisation, Coupet quickly retreated and raced towards goal, making a desperate save with his head that bounced off the Lyon crossbar. However, the danger was not over as Rivaldo prepared for the rebound. Coupet, displaying extraordinary agility and awareness, sprang into action once more, blocking the ensuing header just off the line.
This sequence of events showed Coupet’s quick thinking, adaptability and resilience in the face of unexpected and chaotic situations, ultimately preventing Barcelona from capitalising on Lyon’s defensive errors.
1. Gordon Banks Vs Brazil, 1970
In a defining moment that has been dubbed the “save of the century”, legendary England goalkeeper Gordon Banks demonstrated his extraordinary ability in the 1970 World Cup match against Brazil. Jairzinho’s pinpoint cross into the six-yard box found the head of Pelé, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.
Pelé powered a powerful header into the bottom corner, setting off a celebration that seemed certain as he believed he had secured Brazil’s lead. However, Banks had other plans. With almost superhuman agility, Banks raced across goal, miraculously getting his hands behind the ball and sending it over the crossbar.
Despite his pivotal role in England’s 1966 World Cup triumph, Banks himself admitted that this might be his legacy.
Conclusion
Goalkeeping has always been an important and challenging position in football, where every decision and save can change the whole match. The outstanding saves from goalkeepers such as René Higuita, Gianluigi Buffon, and Gordon Banks not only demonstrate outstanding talent best goal save ever in football history also bring historical moments to this sport. Such saves have left a mark in the hearts of fans and become symbols of courage, quick reflexes and top-notch technique, highlighting the indispensable role of goalkeepers in football.
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