Last-Gasp Winners in Soccer

Bedlam overcame the Old Trafford stadium last week as Marcus Rashford scored a dramatic injury-time goal to snatch a late Manchester United victory against West Ham United. A last-minute winner. Is there any better feeling in soccer? From Lucas Moura’s heroics in Ajax to the iconic “Aguerooooooo”, there are undoubtedly some special moments that are forever etched in our memories. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at some of the most memorable late goals in soccer history.

Lucas Moura, Tottenham Hotspur 3 – 2 Ajax (2019)

It was the end of the last minute of added time, and Dutch giant Ajax was surely on its way to the Champions League final. As the Johan Cruijff Arena filled with angst from Ajax fans calling for the final whistle, Tottenham midfielder Moussa Sissoko sent the ball upfield on a final swing of the boot. All soccer fans know what happened next: Fernando Llorente made a header, Dele Alli did a cheeky flick, Moura followed up with aright-corner finish, and with 95:02 on the clock, they sent Pochettino’s Spurs to Madrid.

The split second of silence seen as the ball glided past goalkeeper André Onana’s hands was breathtaking. The away end of the stadium erupted in joy while the whole Ajax team physically collapsed to the floor out of disbelief. The Spurs’ outrageous comeback displayed the club’s unforgettable philosophy and gritty mentality.

Lucas Moura sends Tottenham through to the Champions League Final (Courtesy of The Guardian)

Troy Deeney, Watford 3-2 Leicester on Aggregate (2013)

“Here’s Hogg…DEENEY! Do not scratch your eyes, you are really seeing the most extraordinary finish here!” Deeney’s game-winning volley in the 2013 Championship playoff semi-final had everything: confusion on one side with Anthony Knockaert’s dramatic dive to win a penalty, Manuel Alumnia’s initial save and follow-up, and a beautifully-crafted counterattack. The Foxes were ready to clinch a spot in the finals with a penalty, but justice was served when Deeney’s mid-air shot created one of the most iconic lines in the history of live soccer commentary.

It was a truly magical moment that gives any soccer fan goosebumps when they watch its replay. Although Gianfranco Zola’s Watford did not end up winning the title, fans got to experience one of the greatest moments in soccer history. Reflecting on the golden goal, Deeney noted, “When I’m older, I can look back on it. Even though we went on to lose to Crystal Palace in the final, the fans still have that day. That goal does prove that it’s never done until it’s done. That goal shows the magic and beauty of [soccer]. It’s why we love it.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Manchester United 2-1 Bayern Munich (1999)

Ask any Red Devil, and they will all agree on the ultimate last-minute winner: Solkjaer’s goal in the 93rd minute at Camp Nou. Despite Bayern Munich midfielder Mario Basler’s drawing first blood with an exceptional free-kick goal, Alex Ferguson’s side bounced back with attacking duo Teddy Sheringham and Solskjaer netting second-half goals in stoppage time. The Norwegian striker stepped onto the field as a substitute and exceeded everyone’s expectations with his composure, accurate through-balls, and threatening crosses. Solskjaer’s laser focus made the difference in the game, as he intelligently weaved through the defenders during a corner kick to make the crucial tap-in: a special goal that allowed Manchester United to win the treble in 1999.

Sergio Aguero, Manchester City 3-2 Queens Park Rangers (2012)

Two things come to mind from that game: the euphoria that greeted Aguero’s winning goal and the stony desolation that preceded it. It was the final day of the Premier League season, and Manchester City had to beat Queens Park Rangers to secure the club’s first league title in 44 years. After beating Sunderland that evening, cross-town rival Manchester United could only watch and pray for a draw or loss in Manchester City’s final match-up.

Despite the overwhelming pressure, Roberto Mancini’s squad stayed calm and constantly looked for the perfect opportunity to score. Minutes before halftime, Manchester City made the breakthrough as Pablo Zabaleta scored a goal after a scuffle in the penalty area. City fans in the Etihad Stadium were preparing for the biggest party of their lives, but then, City’s world imploded. Despite losing star Joey Barton to a red card, QPR fought back and scored twice in quick succession, leaving the home crowd paralyzed in disbelief. A number of fans walked out, unable to take the crushing humiliation. Perhaps City would have to wait another decade for its domestic silverware.

When Edin Dzeko equalized the score in the second minute of stoppage time, there wasn’t much celebration from the home crowd: The odds of City’s scoring again in the next few minutes seemed low. But what followed was absolutely extraordinary. In the final seconds of the game, Nigel de Jong sprinted through the midfield area and served the ball to Aguero, who quickly threaded a pass to Mario Balotelli. Aguero’s instincts kicked in as the Argentine moved into space for a one-two combination with Balotelli. Defender Taye Taiwo slid in for the challenge, but Aguero stayed on his feet and scored a goal that echoed through the ages.

Following Aguero’s wonder strike, Martin Tyler yelled from the press box: “You will never see anything like this ever again!” He’s not wrong; the goal was truly off the charts.