Famous FIFA World Cup Goals: James Rodríguez’s Wonder Volley

Colombia’s James Rodríguez’s unforgettable volley against Uruguay in a round of 16 match at the 2014 FIFA World Cup was remarkable for its technical brilliance. In the 28th minute Rodríguez, about 25 yards (23 meters) from the net and facing away from it, received a headed pass from midfielder Abel Aguilar. He cushioned the ball on his chest, spun, and unleashed a left-footed volley off the crossbar, executing one of the most flawless goals in World Cup history. He scored again in the 50th minute, giving Colombia a 2–0 victory. His audacious opening strike was voted the Goal of the Tournament and also won the FIFA Puskás Award that year, the only World Cup goal to have done so. (Named for Ferenc Puskás, the award is given to the best goal scored each year across tournaments.) Rodríguez’s 2014 World Cup total of six goals also won him the Golden Boot (awarded to the tournament’s top scorer) that year. (Watch the spectacular volley here.)