The 2014 FIFA World Cup featured a total of 171 goals — the most in tournament history.
Here are the tournament’s 10 best.
10. Robin van Persie’s Header vs. Spain
Spain was leading 1-0 early in the group stages against the Netherlands when Robin van Persie’s “Flying Dutchman” header changed both teams’ fortunes, as Spain went home early and the Dutch finished third in the tournament.
9. Tim Cahill’s Volley Rocket vs. The Netherlands
Australia didn’t advance to the Round of 16, but Tim Cahill opened many people’s eyes with his fabulous performance. He scored two goals in Australia’s three games and scored this goal in what was almost a surprising upset against the Netherlands.
8. Lionel Messi’s Strike vs. Iran
Iran was almost there. They were about to force a scoreless draw against the eventual runner-ups, but Team Melli couldn’t quite shut down Lionel Messi as he scored in extra time to give Argentina the win.
7. Lionel Messi’s Free Kick vs. Nigeria
Messi wasn’t done after his ridiculous goal against Iran. He scored two more against Nigeria, one of which was this killer free kick.
6. David Villa’s Back-Heel Goal vs. Australia
Spain probably will want to forget this year’s World Cup as soon as possible. If there’s one moment they’ll want to remember, though, it’s this David Villa back-heel goal against Australia.
5. Jermaine Jones’ Cannon vs. Portugal
The United States scored some incredible and timely goals during the World Cup, but none of them was more amazing than Jermaine Jones’ cannon from downtown against Portugal.
4. Thomas Muller’s Rebound Goal vs. USA
It wasn’t easy scoring against Tim Howard during the World Cup, but Thomas Muller found a way to do so when Germany defeated the United States 1-0 in the group stage.
3. James Rodriguez Super Volley vs. Uruguay
James was magical for Colombia throughout the World Cup. After receiving a volley off his chest, he kicked the ball into the net in what might have been the play of the tournament.
2. Oscar Duarte’s Diving Header Vs. Uruguay
The World Cup’s cinderella team, Costa Rica, had its fair share of memorable goals, but none of them topped falling header from Duarte off a cross against Uruguay.
1. Gotze’s Title-Winning Goal vs. Argentina
In a World Cup where “Super Subs” set a scoring record, Super Mario Gotze entered the World Cup final and scored this beauty in extra time to help secure the World Cup for Germany.
Thumbnail photo via Twitter/@marathonbet_uk
