10 thrilling late goals scored in World Cups

#1 Dennis Bergkamp vs Argentina, 1998

Bergkamp scored the goal of the tournament against Argentina

The Dutch side of the 1990s boasted many quality players. One of them was Dennis Bergkamp. During his prime, he was considered the best Dutch player and one of the best of his generation.

After impressive showings in Euro 1992, World Cup 1994 and Euro 96, the 1998 FIFA World Cup was up next. The Dutch team had a great side with stars like Frank de Boer, Ronald de Boer, Edgar Davids, Edwin van der Sar, Patrick Kluivert, Marc Overmars and Bergkamp in their ranks.

They were considered one of the favourites but did not have a great start as they were held by neighbors Belgium to a 0-0 draw. This was followed by a 5-0 drubbing of South Korea where Bergkamp scored the side’s third goal. A 2-2 draw against Mexico was enough to win the group but their form was far from convincing.

They faced Yugoslavia in the last 16 where Bergkamp scored the opener in a 2-1 win. Their next match was against Argentina and they were eager to avenge their defeat in the 1978 final.

The Dutch began well with Kluivert giving them the lead before Argentina’s Claudio Lopez scored the equalizer. Then, in the 90th minute of the match, Bergkamp scored one of the most memorable goals in World Cup history.

He controlled a 60-yard long pass from Frank de Boer with his right foot, brought the ball down through defender Roberto Ayala’s legs and then struck a perfect volley past Argentine goalie Carlos Roa. The Dutch progressed to the semi-finals where they were beaten by eventual runners-up Brazil.

Bergkamp was included in the Team of the Tournament for his efforts. His spectacular goal against Argentina remains one of the best World Cup goals ever and perhaps the best goal of France ‘98.