Football is a beautiful game, and the only way to win a football match is by putting the ball at the back of the net. The team that outscores their opponents by scoring more goals is declared victorious. There are several ways to score goals, but when it is long range goals, the sight of the goal is something to behold.
Football is ultimately a game that is pleasing to the eyes. Seeing a team build up play through the middle or out wide and then the striker putting the ball behind the net is all too good.
But what if the defending team decides to park the bus and close the goal-scoring opportunities? Then the only way for the attack is to outsmart the defending team with the rocket of a long shot from way out of the goal box.
We have seen many examples of this. In fact, many players actually excel in this skill. Finding the ball on his feet, a long distance from the goal, and then taking that massive shot, the velocity of which is unmatchable for anyone, and seeing the ball in the nets.
Moments like this awestruck the fans. Today in this article, we take a look at 10 players who are renowned for their long-distance shot-making and goal-scoring ability. There is no particular criterion for the ranking.
Top 10 Players Who Are Renowned for Long-Range Goal-Scoring Ability
Frank Lampard
The first name on our list is former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard. He had a great striking ability which allowed him to generate so much power when taking shots outside of the goal box. He gained recognition for his ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch, making late runs towards the box, and had the great ability to drill shots towards goal. The velocity of the ball meant that the defenders and goalkeeper had no choice at all.
Steven Gerrard
When we mentioned Frank Lampard, how can we not mention another England international midfielder who not only bossed the middle of the park but also had those rocket-like long-range shots in his arsenal? The former Liverpool captain not only excelled in linking up the play, but he was also one of the best among his bunch to have the ability to score long rangers.
Kevin De Bruyne
While former Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is known for his great link-up ability and for bringing the best out of his striker teammates, the likes of Erling Haaland, for example, he himself has quite the goalscoring ability. While not among the best of the bunch, De Bruyne has earned quite the reputation for outsmarting the opposition. He is one of the modern midfield maestros who can unlock the defence with his passing or has the ability to strike the ball from far out.
Juninho
Former Brazilian midfielder Juninho is one of the most renowned names in the world of football when it comes to scoring goals with long-range shots from outside the box. He was one of the specialists of this skill set, especially because he had that magical beauty in his boot to take those marvellous free kicks. He was nicknamed ‘King of Deadball’, and though unclear, reportedly he has scored over 50 long-range goals from free kicks and open play.
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Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is not only called ‘Magical Messi’ for his insane dribbling ability, but he is also one of the players who has the ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch. The world has been a witness to his insane free-kick abilities and how he bends the ball into the back of the net from outside of the box. His goalscoring ability from outside the box is quite visible in his brilliant free-kick effort in the 2019 Champions League semi-final first leg.
Cristiano Ronaldo
How is it possible that we mention Lionel Messi and not one of his biggest rivals, Cristiano Ronaldo? In fact, Ronaldo is one step ahead of Messi in terms of scoring long-range goals. Not only is the Portuguese international a great free-kick taker, but he also possesses the ability to even score long-range goals from open play. Throughout his career, he has mesmerised every fan with his insane ball-striking ability. He has great control of his long shots; the way he was able to drill the ball and then dip it to make it difficult for the goalkeepers is one of his finest weapons.
Zlatan Ibrahimović
Former Sweden international striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic had a great knack for goals, be it inside the 25-yard box or outside the box. Zlatan was one of the most lethal strikers of his days playing for big teams like Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Manchester United, etc. He is able to perfectly hit the ball, and the power and pace guide it to the back of the net.
Federico Valverde
When we talk about some of the modern-day players who excel in this skill set, one is none other than Real Madrid’s Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde. He is a hard-working midfielder who runs up and down Madrid’s midfield. But other than that, he is well capable of scoring some screamers from outside the box. In fact, most of his Real Madrid career goals have been long-range rockets that he shoots. So when you watch Real Madrid next time, watch out for Federico Valverde’s stunners.
David Beckham
Former England international midfielder David Beckham is another technically gifted midfielder who had magic on his shoes. His free kicks especially were dangerous. He had that preciseness in his arsenal that made him a real threat from outside the box. He was also a very good long-range goal scorer from open play as well.
Roberto Carlos
Former Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos is a synonym for long-range screamers in football. The Brazilian maestro didn’t need any invitation to shoot from a distance. He was well equipped with his powerful legs and unholy power, and he delivered us some of the most memorable goals of his career. His powerful free-kick goal vs France in 1997 is still deep in the minds of fans who have watched it. His free kicks were special with curl and power. He has also scored some amazing goals from a wide angle on the left wing using his left foot, something that is very rarely seen in football today.