3 goal-line clearances in recent times that redefined the art of defending

#1 Alessandro Florenzi v Germany (Euro 2016)

Florenzi acrobatically cleared the ball to prevent a certain Mueller goal

Italy faced Germany in the quarter-final of the 2016 European Championship in France. This was expected to be an explosive match given that these two were heavyweights in world football. Germany were on the front foot from the go and attacked the Italians with menacing pace. They almost took a deserved lead in this match minute when towering striker Mario Gomez pulled Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini on one side before setting up Thomas Muller.

The Bayern Munich man cut back to his left foot and rifled a hard left-footed shot. However, Florenzi was on hand to rush to Italy's goal line, adjust his body and make an acrobatic clearance off his right foot. This piece of defending was touted by various quarters as the clearance of the century. Florenzi was a true representation of the elite defending Italy is known for. Despite his best effort, Germany prevailed 6-5 on penalties.