As an appetizer for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, the competition has conjured up an array of wonderful projection and class in front of goal, cataloguing thirty six goals in total so far.
The public has been enlightened with a brave and untested Tahiti side whilst evidence of a £49m striker has been emphatically displayed in the number ten Brazil shirt, living up to his expectations.
Here is a count down of the top 5 goals of the tournament, as compiled by Live Soccer TV. This list may not receive the agreement of all readers but that is what footbal is about: differences for a more colourful world! And as one would expect, we want you to take part in this 'Top 5 Best Goals' list by sharing your views. Watch video highlights of our selected goals and judge for yourself. Ahead of the Confederations Cup 2013 Final and Third-place Final on June 30, what are the five goals that have stunned you most?
5) Jonathan Tehau header vs Nigeria
Stereotypically, headers from corners are a predominant method of scoring from set pieces positions and Tahiti’s solitary goal in the tournament came from one.
Despite Nigeria’s resounding victory, Jonathan Tehau’s header lifted a 20,000 capacity ground to a staggering ovation in delight of Tahiti’s first goal in their debut international tournament. Although the goal offers simplicity the magnitude of its story is the reason behind its entry into the top five goals of the competition.
With a population of 277,000 and ten out of the first eleven playing their football trade on a part time basis, Tehau’s header has placed the country on the map and will live within the memories of their people for many years. Considering Tahiti’s detrimental defending and frailties in failing to connect a string of passes together, the corner offered quality which complements the country’s endeavour and willpower to compete.
4) Jo tap in vs Mexico
Neymar’s improvisation was matched by Jo’s willingness to track the attacking prowess of his team mate with a simple but effect tap-in.
Neymar’s trickery saw a quick change of feet, diverting the attention of two defenders from right to left, placing the ball between the legs of the first defender to provide Jo with an easy conversion. Jo’s timing was accurate for Neymar to feed the ball squarely in a dynamic attack.
The ease of Jo’s strike would not enter the top five if not for the dancing escapades of his talented and robust attacking colleague. Jo’s control added additional taste to the goal, demonstrating the enchantment Brazilian football has on offer.
3) Andrea Pirlo free-kick vs Mexico
The veteran Italian midfielder struck a splendid 25-yard shot from a dead ball position into the top corner in an enthralling 2-1 victory over the Mexicans.
Pirlo’s goal enters the frame due to his mental and physical capacity to produce quality when it matters most. His timing clearly aggravated the opposing defenders as the referee had to judge the distance of the wall on more than one occasion. This ultimately paid off in his 100th international appearance and awarded the team’s a deserved lead..
His thirteenth goal for his country was delivered with exquisite tempo, accuracy and precision, highlighting his position as the midfielder magician at the heart of the Italian side.
2) Neymar goal vs Japan
Barcelona’s new Brazilian recruit has stolen the limelight and began with an emphatic strike of the ball in the contest’s first game against Japan in the first three minutes.
Following a layoff from his fellow strike partner, the 21-year-old unleashed a jaw dropping shot into the top right hand corner of the opposing goalkeeper’s goal.
His technique provided a profitable spin on the ball, taking it away from the helpless reaching hand of the keeper. The ball was also hit with distinct pace, travelling a speed and hitting the back of the net before the crowd could even blink. His stance delivered the explanation for power and direction in his skill, gifting this shot a deserved place in the top five goals of the tournament.
1) Neymar volley verses Mexico
Game two saw the samba wonder kid latch onto a deflected Daniel Alves cross with a deadly volley on his left foot past Mexican stopper Corona after nine minutes of the game.
Neymar’s intention was absolutely clear from the point of Alves’ cross. Travelling at the exact pace to hit the ball at the precise moment it reached him. This technique demonstrates the practice Neymar has put in, delivering a sweet connection and providing an insight to his potential at the Nou Camp next season.
Not only was his volley a touch of world-class, but his goal separated both teams in a tough encounter due to the Mexican’s tenacity to press and attack throughout periods of the game.
And for the Confederations Cup 2013 Final and Third-place Final…
Although Neymar’s goals against Japan and Mexico fittingly take the gold and silver awards for goals of the tournament - according to Live Soccer TV, the contribution from competitors and their scorers has offered a complementary flavour of things to come in twelve months time. The Confederations Cup 2013 has provided us with flare, pace and plenty of tenacity which will enforce a bright and enthusiastic reception for the thirty two nations taking part in next year’s lucrative World Cup.
What will the remaining four teams at the Confederations Cup offer the public on Sunday? The Third-Place final between Uruguay and Italy, and the Grand Finale between Brazil and Spain could produce more wonder goals. Spectators might have to glue themselves to their seats or get totally blown away by outrageous strikes come June 30!
