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Five Years Ago Today Robin Van Persie Scored Incredible Headed Goal

Five Years Ago Today Robin Van Persie Scored Incredible Headed Goal

The Dutch forward scored one of the best World Cup goals we've ever seen as Louis van Gaal's Netherland's beat champions Spain 5-1.

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare

On this day five years ago Robin van Persie lept like a salmon to head home the perfect goal for Netherlands as they beat Spain 5-1 in the World Cup.

It was the opening round of fixtures in the World Cup in Brazil when holders Spain played against the unfancied Dutch, managed by Louis van Gaal.

A Xabi Alonso penalty put the Spanish ahead but it wasn't long before Robin Van Persie scored one of the most memorable goals in tournament history.

In a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final, Spain started the game well when Xabi Alonso netted from the penalty spot, but RVP's equaliser left the world in shock.

The Arena Fonte Nova stood and applauded what was a truly remarkable piece of improvisation.

Louis van Gaal's men went on to win the game 5-1 thanks to goals from Van Persie, Robben and defender Stefan de Vrij, but the headlines belonged to the-then Manchester United striker.

As you can see in the footage above, Van Persie met Daley Blind's inch perfect crossfield pass with a 15-yard header like no other.

To put this game into perspective, it was the first time Spain had conceded 5+ goals in an international since losing 6-2 to Scotland in June 1963. In fact, four goals is still the biggest losing margin by a defending champion

Monumental.


What's your favourite ever World Cup goal?

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Louis van Gaal, Manchester United, Xabi Alonso, Robin van Persie, Netherlands, World Cup, Spain, Brazil