In soccer, goals ignite the most response from the fans and as a new fan of the sport a curious query often arises: Can goalies score in soccer?
The answer is yes! Despite their primary role of guarding the net, goalies occasionally make their mark on the scoreboard in remarkable ways.
This article dives into the ways a goalie can score and showcases the highest-scoring goalkeepers and some of the best goals from them.
How Can Goalkeepers Score in Soccer?
Goalkeepers, usually known for their heroic saves, can also turn the tables and score in soccer through some extraordinary plays. Here’s how:
| Play | Description |
|---|---|
| Drop Kicks or Punts | Goalies use their strong legs to punt the ball downfield. If it reaches the net untouched, it’s an impressive goal. |
| Corner Kicks | Keepers join attacks during corner or free kicks near the opponent’s goal. A skillful header can lead to an unexpected goal. |
| Free Kicks | Some goalkeepers are adept at taking free kicks, showcasing their all-around skills. |
| Penalty Kicks | Goalkeepers not only make saves but can also step up for penalty shots. Scoring from the spot adds an intriguing twist. |
| Own Half Shots | Bold goalkeepers may take shots from their own half. A successful long-distance goal is truly awe-inspiring. |
Goalkeepers, often unsung heroes, occasionally swap their gloves for glory, showcasing their versatile skills and leaving fans in awe.
Goalkeepers with Most Goals
While goalkeepers are typically celebrated for their saves, these exceptional players have defied convention by not only guarding their posts but also finding the back of the net.
Here are the top five goalkeepers who have etched their names in soccer history through their remarkable goal-scoring prowess:
| Rank | Goalkeeper | Country | Career | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Rene Higuita | Colombia | 1985 – 2009 | 43 Goals |
| 4 | Johnny Vegas | Peru | 1997 – 2017 | 45 Goals |
| 3 | Jorge Campos | Mexico | 1988 – 2014 | 46 Goals |
| 2 | Jose Luis Chilavert | Paraguay | 1982 – 2004 | 67 Goals |
| 1 | Rogerio Ceni | Brazil | 1990 – 2015 | 131 Goals |
These goalkeepers have demonstrated their exceptional skills beyond their primary role, making a significant impact on the scoreline. From daring free kicks to unexpected long-distance shots, these remarkable players have left an indelible mark on the game.
Among the distinguished ranks of goalkeepers turned scorers, Rogerio Ceni shines as a standout figure. Not only does he hold the record for the most goals by a goalkeeper with 131 goals, but he also claims a position among the top 15 players of all time with the most free-kick goals to his credit.
Our Favourite Goal: Allison Becker vs West Brom
There are so many options to choose from but for most impact and drama, we have to go with Allison Becker winner vs. West Brom in the Premier League.
The impact of Alisson Becker’s extraordinary 95th-minute header at the Hawthorns on May 16, 2021, reverberates with a consistent thread seen in all such instances. This thread is intricately woven into the very essence of Liverpool’s unwavering pursuit of greatness.
The impeccable header in the dying minutes in a monumental victory in terms of consequences. The remarkable 2-1 victory over West Brom emerged in the midst of an impressive eight-game winning streak.
This triumphant run propelled a beleaguered Liverpool from a state of despondency to a resounding third place in the league. Ultimately, this surge secured their berth in the esteemed UEFA Champions League for the ensuing year.
FAQs
No, goalkeeper goals are quite rare in soccer. They are considered exceptional moments that stand out due to their infrequent nature.
Yes, a goalkeeper can score directly from a goal kick. If the ball is kicked directly into the opponent’s goal without being touched by another player, it counts as a valid goal.
Yes, there have been instances where a goalkeeper has ventured forward during the dying moments of a match and scored a crucial goal, either to tie the game or secure a dramatic victory.
Yes, goalkeeper goals are recorded as part of a goalkeeper’s individual statistics. They contribute to the player’s overall goal tally and can become memorable milestones in their career.
The record for the longest goal scored in football history belongs to goalkeeper Tom King after he scored from 105 yards (96.01m) for Newport County against Cheltenham Town.
While extremely rare, yes, despite their primary role of guarding the net, goalies occasionally make their mark on the scoreboard in remarkable ways.
Among the distinguished ranks of goalkeepers turned scorers, Rogerio Ceni shines as a standout figure. Not only does he hold the record for the most goals by a goalkeeper with 131 goals, but he also claims a position among the top 15 players of all time with the most free-kick goals to his credit.
