The FA Cup final is a spectacle that never fails to captivate, and the goals scored in these matches are often the stuff of legend. From the technically sublime to the shock-inducing, these strikes have etched themselves into the history of English football. Here, we delve into the top 10 FA Cup final goals, each one a testament to the beauty and unpredictability of the beautiful game.
- Ricky Villa - Tottenham v Man City 1981
The iconic image of a beaming Ricky Villa, his hair billowing in the Wembley breeze, is a symbol of pure adrenaline and emotion. After being taken off in the original match, Villa's return in the replay was nothing short of magical. With the game tied at 2-2, he embarked on a dribbling masterpiece, skipping past defenders with effortless grace. His goal, a slot between Joe Corrigan's legs, not only sealed the win but also changed his life in the English league.
- Steven Gerrard - Liverpool v West Ham 2006
Gerrard's name is synonymous with belters, but this particular strike is a contender for the sweetest. With Liverpool trailing in added time, Gerrard's cramp-stricken body struggled to keep up with the pace. Yet, with a swing of his right boot, he unleashed a shot that fizzed just above the turf and found the back of the net. It was a moment that made him feel like the most special player in the world, and it led to a penalty shootout victory.
- Roberto di Matteo - Chelsea v Middlesbrough 1997
In the blink of an eye, Roberto di Matteo's goal changed the course of Chelsea's history. With barely a minute played, he surged forward, leaving Middlesbrough's midfield in his wake. His strike, a ferocious effort that appeared to pick up speed as it hit the underside of the crossbar, sent Chelsea on their way to a 2-0 victory. It was a moment of pure elation for the club, ending a 26-year trophy drought.
- Michael Owen - Liverpool v Arsenal 2001
Michael Owen's goal in this final was a testament to his electric talent. With Liverpool trailing, Owen's half-volley in the 83rd minute levelled the score. But it was his winner five minutes later that truly showcased his skill. With a burst of speed, he left Lee Dixon in his wake, his touch taking the ball away from Tony Adams, and his shot finding the far post. Owen's goal was a moment of pure genius, a schoolkid's dream come true.
- Ilkay Gundogan - Man City v Man Utd 2023
Gundogan's goal was a lightning-fast strike that set the tone for Manchester City's triumph. With only 12 seconds on the clock, he executed a perfect volley, lacing the ball into David de Gea's top corner. It was the fastest goal in FA Cup final history and a moment that showcased his precision and power. Gundogan's performance that day was a key factor in City's Treble success.
- Norman Whiteside - Man Utd v Everton 1985
In a match where Manchester United were down to 10 men and facing an Everton side chasing a treble, Norman Whiteside's goal was a moment of resilience. Mark Hughes' pass found Whiteside, who scrambled down the right and cut in with a subtle stepover. His curling effort, a wrap around Pat van den Hauwe, found the far corner, and it was a goal that showed the spirit of the underdogs.
- Ray Parlour - Arsenal v Chelsea 2002
Ray Parlour, the 'Romford Pele', had a goal in him when it mattered most. With Arsenal trailing Chelsea in the 2002 final, Parlour's sweaty curls could be spotted bounding through blue shirts. His curling effort from 30 yards out, with William Gallas and Marcel Desailly backing off, found Carlo Cudicini's despairing hands. It was a moment of pure genius, setting the stage for Freddie Ljungberg's solo effort.
- Charlie George - Arsenal v Liverpool 1971
Charlie George's goal in this final was a display of pure athleticism and skill. With Arsenal trailing deep into extra time, George played a one-two and lashed a strike beyond Ray Clemence from the edge of the box. The celebration, with his arms outstretched and yellow kit, is iconic. It was a moment that showcased the burning quads and cramping calf muscles of a player in the zone.
- Ben Watson - Wigan v Man City 2013
Ben Watson's goal was a well-executed set-piece that produced a massive shock. With the score tied at 1-1 in the 91st minute, Watson rose like an Atlantic salmon to meet Shaun Maloney's corner. His looping header found the far corner, and it was a moment that sealed Wigan Athletic's victory over Manchester City. The drama of the goal was only matched by the team's subsequent relegation.
- Youri Tielemans - Leicester v Chelsea 2021
Youri Tielemans' goal in the 2021 final was a moment of pure magic. With two touches, he shifted the ball out of his feet and angled a bullet-like drive into Kepa Arrizabalaga's top corner. The Covid restrictions meant a reduced crowd, but the impact of the goal was still felt. It was a moment that showcased the beauty of individual brilliance, and it will forever be etched in the memories of Foxes fans.
These goals, each with their own unique story, are a testament to the FA Cup's rich history and the magic it brings to the beautiful game. From the adrenaline-fueled dribbles to the technically sublime strikes, these moments are what make the FA Cup final an unforgettable spectacle.
