We are down to less than ten days until the start of the World Cup in Brazil and continue our Top 50 World Cup moments – today Tshabalala’s Stunning Opening Goal In 2010.
The 2010 World Cup burst into life with the stunner by Siphiwe Tshabalala in minute 54 of Bafana’s opening match of the 2010 World Cup.
There were not many swifter counterattacks or more decisive finishes in World Cup history.
Bafana had waited patiently for the right moment to disrupt one of Mexcio’s build-ups, then struck with the deftest of counters.
Once possession had been gained the impressive Kagiso Dikgacoi played the perfect 40-yard pass from inside the centre circle to allow Tshabalala a run behind the Mexican defence.
After taking a single touch the winger’s left-footed finish was even better, flying unstoppably past Mexico goalkeeper, Oscar Perez, and into the top-left corner.
The stadium erupted and Tshabalala had scored one of the most impressive opening goals in World Cup history.
Unfortunately Mexico found the equalizer 11 minutes from the end and Katlego Mphela only hit the post in the last minute of the normal time.
Who knows how the World Cup would have developed for Bafana, if they had won the first game. However, Tshabalala’s stunner will for ever be in our and the world’s memories.
How did you celebrate the goal? Have your say in the comment section below.
