Free kicks are a thrilling spectacle in football, showcasing a player’s finesse, precision, and ability to turn a set-piece opportunity into a game-changing moment. Throughout the history of the sport, certain players have become synonymous with free-kick excellence.
Here are five of the top free-kick maestros from past and present.
Juninho Pernambucano: The Brazilian Magician
Kicking off this list is a man who is widely regarded as one of the greatest free-kick specialists in football history. Known for his lethal accuracy and incredible swerve, Juninho scored numerous memorable goals during his career. His time at Lyon in Ligue 1 saw him become the club’s all-time leading scorer from free kicks, a testament to his unparalleled ability to find the back of the net from long distances.
David Beckham: Bend it Like Beckham
To have a film named after you, you have to be doing something right. Renowned for his ability to bend the ball with precision, Beckham made a habit of delivering stunning set-piece goals throughout his illustrious career. From his time at Manchester United to his later years with Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and Paris Saint-Germain, Beckham’s free-kick technique was a spectacle that fans around the world admired. Plus, that goal against Greece is nothing short of iconic.
Andrea Pirlo: The Italian Architect
A midfield maestro, Pirlo possessed a sublime touch and vision that extended to his free-kick taking. The Italian technician’s ability to place the ball with accuracy and finesse made him a constant threat from dead-ball situations. Whether it was in Serie A with AC Milan or during his time with Juventus, Pirlo’s free kicks were a masterclass in technique and intelligence. When this man was standing over a dead ball, goalkeepers knew they were in trouble.
Lionel Messi: The GOAT
Due to the fact that Lionel Messi is known for being the greatest player to grace the game, his ability from free kicks can often be overlooked. Messi has consistently demonstrated a deadly left foot that can curl the ball with precision into the top corner. When we think of free kick experts, Messi is a name that doesn’t immediately spring to mind, but it certainly should – evidenced by this stunner against Liverpool.
Hakan Çalhanoğlu: Technical Excellence
Among the contemporary stars, Hakan Çalhanoğlu has emerged as quite the free-kick specialist. The Turkish midfielder has a very unique way of striking a football and has done so on a number of occasions. Calhanoğlu’s free kicks are a standout aspect of his game, and distance doesn’t seem to faze the skillful playmaker.
