The French call it “La Madjer”, after its inventor, Algerian and FC Porto striker Rabah Madjer. This skill requires a low cross with enough pace to allow the forward to redirect the ball with his heel, while letting the ball roll between his legs. By capitalizing on the element of surprise, the keeper and defenders in front of him often have no chance to react. A difficult move, but which results in spectacular moments.
One of the Impact’s most famous backheel goals was Anthony Jackson-Hamel’s game-winner, back in 2017 against Atlanta United. The remarkable goal allowed the Impact to earn the win in stoppage time in a game that will be broadcast live tonight on impactmontreal.com at 7:30pm.
Here is a small selection of notable backheel goals, including a few from the King himself.
Didier Drogba – Montreal Impact v Chicago Fire
In only his second appearance of the 2016 season, Didier Drogba made us marvel at his tremendous talent with this sumptuous goal following a low cross passing between the defender’s legs by Dominic Oduro. But the former Ivory Coast captain had already shown IMFC supporters what he is capable of…
Rabah Madjer – FC Porto v Bayern Munich, European Cup final
The first time a goal like this was seen, it was on the biggest stage: during a European final. In 1987, FC Porto faces Lothar Matthäus’ Bayern Munich. The Germans take an early 1-0 lead in the 25th minute and already dream of hoisting the European Cup, but Madjer levels the game in the 77th minute with a memorable goal, one which will inspire a generation of players. FC Porto will go on to win the final 2-1 and Madjer becomes a hero, both in the Portuguese city and in his home country.
Didier Drogba – Montreal Impact vs Toronto FC
Decision Day. The final MLS regular season game of 2015 was a crucial game for Toronto FC and the Impact, the winner having home advantage during the knock-out round of the playoffs. After the Reds take a 1-0 lead, Drogba makes the Stade Saputo bell ring not once, but twice in one minute with two back heel goals. We can tell even he enjoyed those goals.
Aaron Ramsey – Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur
During a memorable North London Derby, Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey ventured forward in search of an opening goal. He redirected a low cross with his heel, lifting the ball high in the air. Tottenham’s captain and keeper Hugo Lloris can only tip the ball into his goal. The game finished 2-2.
Jamie Vardy – England v Germany
Leicester City’s English striker is one of the best English goalscorers at the moment. Here's a fine finish against the former reigning world champions in Berlin. Jamie Vardy is having a party.
