Cristiano Ronaldo's 10 best goals of the decade

#5 vs. Valencia, May 2014

Ronaldo's goal against Valencia required insane athleticism

Ronaldo’s back-heeled goal against Rayo Vallecano in 2012 was fantastic enough, but somehow he pulled off an even better back-heeled strike in this draw with Valencia in May 2014. To make the goal even more jaw-dropping, the Portuguese scored it in the second minute of injury time – rescuing the game for Real Madrid, who had trailed for 25 minutes of the second half.

This time, with Los Blancos chasing the game, a cross was fired into the box, only for a Valencia defender to head it away. The ball fell to Angel Di Maria, who crossed back in, and somehow Ronaldo was able to contort his body to catch it cleanly with his right heel, sending it into the back of the net past the despairing dive of Valencia keeper Diego Alves.

This was a goal of absolutely insane quality, made even more incredible by the fact that ‘CR7’ could barely see the goal as his foot connected with the ball. It may well be the greatest back-heeled goal ever scored.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Vishal Subramanian