5 of the most bizarre moments in World Cup history

#3 Rene Higuita decides to play outfield, World Cup 1990

Cameroon had already caused a stir in the 1990 World Cup by defeating holders Argentina in the opening game of the tournament, but after surprisingly winning their group, it was expected that their run would come to an end in the second round against Colombia. However, fans hadn’t taken into account the presence of the original sweeper-keeper in Colombia’s goal – Rene Higuita.

Higuita was already renowned as somewhat of a bizarre character – with his wild perm and huge moustache, he’d earned the nickname ‘El Loco’, or ‘The Crazy One’ – as he had a tendency to come high up the pitch, even dribbling the ball at times, forcing his defence forward and making Colombia a more attacking side.

Against Cameroon though, this tendency caught up with him badly. After the game ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, extra time began and midway through, 40-year old striker Roger Milla opened the scoring for the African side.

With Colombia chasing an equaliser, Higuita decided to attempt one of his bizarre dribbles while well out of his goal. Milla stole the ball from him and slotted it into the empty net, giving Cameroon a 2-0 lead, and although Colombia pulled a goal back, they were eliminated.

Somehow the incident didn’t deter Higuita from more bizarre behaviour – after spending time in jail, forcing him to miss the 1994 World Cup, he then performed the legendary ‘Scorpion Kick’ during a 1995 friendly with England.