MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM – APRIL 12: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Paris Saint-Germain looks on during the UEFA Champions League quarter final second leg match between Manchester City FC and Paris Saint-Germain at the Etihad Stadium on April 12, 2016 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
The best of the best.
The great goalscorers in football will always have something that separates them from the rest. It may be exceptional pace or dazzling skill on the ball, or it could be tremendous size and strength. Over the past two decades, fans have been able to see all of this in one player – Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The 36-year-old is in his second season at Manchester United, and does not appear to be letting anything stop him. An ACL tear forced Ibrahimovic out of action in April of this year, only for him to return last month.
Beginning his professional career with Malmo FF, Ibrahimovic soon moved to Ajax and eventually Italian giants Juventus. Inter Milan, Barcelona and AC Milan all followed, and almost all of these stops brought an incredible amount of success.
When he signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2012, Ibrahimovic literally helped to shift and shape a new identity for the club. Even with many pundits expecting him to struggle in his first Premier League season last term, Zlatan netted an impressive 17 goals for the Red Devils across all competitions.
On the international stage, Ibrahimovic is Sweden’s all-time leading scorer and was a true leader for the squad.
A veteran of several European Championships and FIFA World Cups, his incredible presence was almost always felt for his country.
A powerful shot, magical technical ability and a willingness (or arrogance depending on your view) to try the unexpected out on the pitch, Ibrahimovic has provided stunning moments year after year.
With the mercurial striker now back from injury, Playing For 90 offers up Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s all-time top ten goals.
Manchester United</a>, and does not appear to be letting anything stop him. An ACL tear forced Ibrahimovic out of action in April of this year, only for him to return last month.</p>
<p>The Swedish legend has been a part of Europe’s elite sides throughout his career, and has never been shy about <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8bQgQZDCgk%22>speaking his mind when given the opportunity</a>.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tears his ACL in April. He’s back in November. Ibra is not human. <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNNEW?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>#MUNNEW</a></p>
<p>— Roy Emanuel (@Roy13a) <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://twitter.com/Roy13a/status/931962168865468416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>November 18, 2017</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Beginning his professional career with Malmo FF, Ibrahimovic soon moved to Ajax and eventually Italian giants Juventus. Inter Milan, Barcelona and AC Milan all followed, and almost all of these stops brought an incredible amount of success.</p>
<p>When he signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2012, Ibrahimovic literally helped to shift and shape a new identity for the club. Even with many pundits expecting him to struggle in his first Premier League season last term, Zlatan netted an impressive 17 goals for the Red Devils across all competitions.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe loading="lazy" width="500" height="281" src=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/gRX7rTHI3d8?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" gesture="media" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>On the international stage, Ibrahimovic is Sweden’s all-time leading scorer and was a true leader for the squad.</p>
<p>A veteran of several European Championships and <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://fansided.com/soccer/world-cup/">FIFA World Cups</a>, his incredible presence was almost always felt for his country.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe loading="lazy" width="500" height="281" src=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/AeXKyj2ggwM?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" gesture="media" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>A powerful shot, magical technical ability and a willingness (or arrogance depending on your view) to try the unexpected out on the pitch, Ibrahimovic has provided stunning moments year after year.</p>
<p>With the mercurial striker now back from injury, Playing For 90 offers up Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s all-time top ten goals.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number ten </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 26: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Manchester United scores their third goal past goalkeeper Fraser Forster of Southampton during the EFL Cup Final between Manchester United and Southampton at Wembley Stadium on February 26, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>10) vs. Southampton – 2017</strong></h3>
<p>We begin with one of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s most recent strikes, and it in many ways exemplifies much of what he brings to any squad. Manchester United and Southampton were tied 2-2 late in the second half of the EFL Cup final, and the energy around Wembley Stadium was certainly tense.</p>
<p>The attack moves towards the opposing goal, and the ball is worked throughout the final third. While he may not have the pace that he once had, Ibrahimovic’s size and positioning are on a different level.</p>
<p>A cross enters the penalty area, and Zlatan is there to put it away with a perfect header to deliver the trophy for United.</p>
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<p>It was his second goal of the game, as Ibra was truly too much for the Saints to handle that evening.</p>
<p>In the past few years, he has managed to adapt to his surroundings perfectly. Utilising various skills and an incredible sense of what is needed to win, the Swedish striker is a true asset for current manager Jose Mourinho.</p>
<p>Still working his way back into the line-up in some respects, don’t be surprised to see more of this in 2017-18 as well.</p>
<p>It was considered a risk for Manchester United to add Zlatan Ibrahimovic last season. However, he has showcased his value on several occasions and may not be done just yet.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number nine </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">MILAN – SEPTEMBER 25: Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Left) of Ajax is tackled by Ivan Cordoba of Inter Milan during the UEFA Champions League Group D match between Inter Milan and Ajax on September 25, 2002 played at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium in Milan, Italy. Inter Milan won the match 1-0. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>9) vs. Lyon – 2002</strong></h3>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrived at Ajax Amsterdam in 2001 as a brash young talent eager to prove himself to the world, but he did not get the chance immediately. When new manager Ronald Koeman took over, the Dutch coach knew what he had and gave the Swede more playing time.</p>
<p>The choice was certainly rewarded as Ajax captured the Eredivisie title that season. Ibra then made his UEFA Champions League debut in the following campaign, and it was one to remember against French side Olympique Lyonnais.</p>
<p>Zlatan takes the ball along the left side of the penalty area, and turns his attention towards the opposing goal. The defence likely felt confident that they had the youngster in an unfavourable position, but the entire complexion of the match quickly changed.</p>
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<p>Ibrahimovic works his way past a defender with a wonderful piece of skill, takes a step and fires a low shot into the bottom-right corner. Striking the post on the way in, the powerful blast was nearly impossible for Lyon’s keeper to stop.</p>
<p>An unknown commodity at the time, this would be just the start for Zlatan on the European stage.</p>
<p>This goal is a perfect display of how even though he may not be in the best position, Zlatan Ibrahimovic can always transform what it taking place with his abilities.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number eight </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 15: Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Esteban Cambiasso of Inter in action with and Per Kroldrup of Fiorentina during the Serie A match between Inter and Fiorentina at the Meazza Stadio on March 15, 2009 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by New Press/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>8) vs. Fiorentina – 2009</strong></h3>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic signed with Inter Milan under unique circumstances, moving from rival Juventus after the Old Lady’s match-fixing scandal relegated the club from Serie A. Upon his decision he stated that he supported the Nerazzurri as a child, certainly making him a popular addition at the San Siro.</p>
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<p>Success followed him as well, winning three consecutive league titles and scoring goals at an incredible rate. His work in open play is often magnificent, but Ibra is also lethal in free-kick situations.</p>
<p>With intense power and accuracy, Zlatan can be a goalscoring threat from almost anywhere in the final third. Against ACF Fiorentina in 2009, that skillset left fans absolutely speechless with a thunderous long-range effort.</p>
<p>Inter earn a free-kick from 32 metres out, and were probably considering various options with how to take it. But with Ibrahimovic, having a go is never too far out.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe loading="lazy" width="500" height="281" src=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/s76DZPx_BS0?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" gesture="media" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>Zlatan unleashes a blast that shocked nearly everyone, and one opposing defender even had to acknowledge the magic with a handshake.</p>
<p>Inter Milan enjoyed an outstanding period of success during the end of the previous decade, with many talented individuals in the squad. But few brought so many different dimensions to the game like Ibra did.</p>
<p>Whether on the ball or preparing for a free-kick, every defence must prepare properly for Zlatan Ibrahimovic (even if it doesn’t work most times).</p>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">KIEV, UKRAINE – JUNE 19: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Sweden scores the opening goal during the UEFA EURO 2012 group D match between Sweden and France at The Olympic Stadium on June 19, 2012 in Kiev, Ukraine. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>7) vs. France – 2012</strong></h3>
<p>To describe Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a legend in Sweden is not simply hyperbole, but instead a statement of fact. In 2014, a Swedish newspaper voted him to be the second-greatest Swedish athlete in history, behind only tennis player Bjorn Borg.</p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia">
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<p>On the pitch, his amazing skill drove the national side to success in several different competitions. At Euro 2012, a disappointing group-stage exit did provide an unforgettable moment from the team captain.</p>
<p>In Sweden’s final match of the tournament, they were locked in a 0-0 draw in the second half with France. A move up the right flank resulted in a high, looping cross into the French penalty area.</p>
<p>Ibra would take care of the rest.</p>
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<p>The magnificent number ten caught the ball on a volley, and fired it into the back of the net with an athletic effort.</p>
<p>Their opponents were stunned, as Sweden went on to secure a 2-0 victory. Despite their elimination after the final whistle, Zlatan’s fantastic sequence is still considered by many to be one of his best strikes.</p>
<p>Sweden would miss out on the 2014 World Cup, and suffer yet another early exit at Euro 2016. Not always surrounded by the best of talent, Ibra made his nation’s games must-see action.</p>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic gave his all for Sweden, and literally did all he could to make their attack potent.</p>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">PARIS, FRANCE – MAY 18: Zlatan Ibrahimovic looks on after the Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Stade Brestois 29 at Parc des Princes on May 18, 2013 in Paris, France. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>6) vs. SC Bastia – 2013</strong></h3>
<p>Founded in 1970, Paris Saint-Germain had enjoyed moderate success throughout their history. Two Ligue 1 titles and eight Coupe de France trophies were only the beginning when everything changed in 2011, as new ownership made Les Parisiens one of the wealthiest clubs on the planet.</p>
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<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic was the star attraction when he moved to the French capital the following year, and his time at the Parc des Princes was the stuff of true legends. The forward scored 156 goals across all competitions during his four seasons with PSG.</p>
<p>He netted several incredible strikes, but one from the 2013-14 campaign against SC Bastia was truly special.</p>
<p>Eventually named Ligue 1’s Goal of the Season, an otherwise routine 4-0 thrashing featured a unique volley that few have ever witnessed before.</p>
<p>A pass into the penalty area takes a deflection, and soars high into the air. Positioning himself with his back to goal and with a defender marking him closely, it certainly does not appear that Ibra will be able to make much of the situation.</p>
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<p>But with his imaginative mind (and feet) at work, Zlatan wraps his right boot around his opposition and scores with a spectacular back-heel effort.</p>
<p>The home crowd completely erupts, energised by what their striker just did.</p>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic can attack in many ways. However, it can be argued that his greatest assets are his creativity and the confidence to try things that other footballers would not.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number five </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 11: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of AC Milan celebrates his goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 11, 2012 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>5) vs. U.S. Lecce – 2011</strong></h3>
<p>Many gifted players have been on both sides of the Derby della Madonnina, with the likes of <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://playingfor90.com/2017/11/07/andrea-pirlo-talent-may-not-see-anytime-soon/">Andrea Pirlo</a> and <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"http://lastwordonsports.com/2016/12/02/ronaldo-years-inter-milan/">Ronaldo playing for AC Milan and Inter Milan. Zlatan Ibrahimovic was one individual who did the same, and certainly made an impact for the Rossoneri during his two years at the club.</p>
<p>He was part of a side that captured a Serie A title, and scored 56 goals across all competitions in 85 appearances. One match at U.S. Lecce saw Zlatan’s strength and accuracy at a superb level, with the opposing defence left simply to wonder how they went wrong.</p>
<p>A long pass forward sees Ibra chase down the ball, and control it with two defenders all over him. In a sequence full of raw energy and incredible skill, he launches a shot with his left foot that curls perfectly into the back of the net.</p>
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<p>The reaction from the crowd is fantastic in its own right, with a mixture of laughter and exasperation from Lecce supporters. Even with the back-line and goalkeeper in a good position, nothing could be done to stop the powerful striker.</p>
<p>Like many stops during his wild career, Zlatan produced controversy with Milan in spats with team-mates and altercations with referees. His time with the club may have been short, but his influence was massive.</p>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic can make something out of nothing, even when the opposing side are organised properly.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number four </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 20: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of AC Milan scores the first goal during the Serie A match between Milan and Fiorentina at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on November 20, 2010 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>4) vs. Fiorentina – 2010</strong></h3>
<p>The fourth goal of the countdown stays at AC Milan, within the first few months of Zlatan Ibrahimovic joining manager Massimiliano Allegri’s squad. A November home date against Fiorentina brought a difficult challenge, but it was Milan’s prolific striker who would ultimately make the difference in 1-0 win.</p>
<p>The two sides seemed set to enter the half-time break at 0-0, with only seconds remaining before the referee’s whistle. However, that was all the time that Zlatan would need to deliver a match-winner for his team that evening.</p>
<p>Thiago Silva sent a hopeful cross into the penalty area, and a reward was immediately found thanks to Ibrahimovic’s creative energy.</p>
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<p>The striker is able to gain control of the ball, lift it up for himself and score a goal with an over-head kick as his momentum takes him in the opposite direction.</p>
<p>A sublime piece of skill and showing off his masterful touch on the ball, Ibrahimovic was able to secure an important result seemingly on his own.</p>
<p>Victories can occasionally come from quick sequences of inspiration, and when two talented sides meet those sequences are vital. Few in the past two decades have been better in those types of moments than Zlatan Ibrahimovic.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number three </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">BARCELONA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 25: Zlatan Ibrahimovic (L) of FC Barcelona scores his side’s second goal from a free kick flanked by his teammate Xavier Hernandez during the La Liga match between FC Barcelona and Real Zaragoza at the Camp Nou Stadium on October 25, 2009 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>3) vs. Real Zaragoza – 2009</strong></h3>
<p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic could definitely be described as a mercenary, as the striker has featured for eight different clubs during his football career (and he’s not done yet!). But even with all of his different situations, no setting was as bizarre as his one season with Barcelona and manager Pep Guardiola.</p>
<p>In a swap deal involving Samuel Eto’o joining Inter Milan, the talented striker was the newest attacker at the Camp Nou. While the tactics utilised did not always suit his skills, Ibra was still able to shine bright in Catalonia.</p>
<p>A home fixture versus Real Zaragoza finished as a comfortable 6-1 win, and saw Zlatan’s power at its ferocious best.</p>
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<p>Taking free-kicks during that time with Barcelona was not an easy proposition, as there was no shortage of excellent options. <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"https://playingfor90.com/2017/03/14/lionel-messi-time-top-ten-goals/">Lionel Messi</a>, Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez and Thierry Henry could all make a case for being one of the world’s best in these situations.</p>
<p>Undaunted by those around him (as he so often is), Ibrahimovic uncorks a shot with so much pace that the ball seemed to take the Zaragoza keeper into the net with it.</p>
<p>Zlatan did not mesh with Guardiola’s “tiki-taka” system, and that destroyed the relationship between player and coach within a very short period of time.</p>
<p>One of the forward’s great quotes comes from his Barcelona days, when discussing how he was used in Spain. “You bought a Ferrari, <a href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11946/9815054/zlatan-ibrahimovics-best-quotes-on-barcelona-ahead-of-psg-champions-league-clash">but you drive it like a Fiat</a>.”</p>
<p>Never one to back down, Zlatan Ibrahimovic departed La Liga for a Serie A return and the rest is history.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number two </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">AMSTERDAM – FEBRUARY 26: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Ajax takes on Martin Keown and Lauren of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League Second Phase Group B match held on February 26, 2003 at The Amsterdam ArenA, in Amsterdam, Holland. The match ended in a 0-0 draw. (Photo by Jamie McDonald/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>2) vs. NAC Breda – 2004</strong></h3>
<p>When a young player is looking to make a name for himself, sometimes everything can come together in just the right way during a spectacular goal. In one solo move towards goal in August of 2004, Zlatan Ibrahimovic introduced his skill to football fans everywhere with a jaw-dropping strike against NAC Breda.</p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia">
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<p>Ibra receives the ball about 30 metres out, and begins a mesmerising run that leaves multiple defenders wondering what is happening.</p>
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<p>The first of the opposition is dispatched easily with strength, and Zlatan turns two Breda players inside-out for good measure before entering the penalty area.</p>
<p>A slide tackle from his left provides nothing but further embarrassment, until another failed version occurs seconds later.</p>
<p>The goalkeeper is merely a spectator also, falling onto the pitch as he loses his balance. It is a true symphony of sport, and the entire moment somehow seems better each time it is viewed. Eurosport voted it to be the Goal of the Year by viewers, and was certainly a major influence on his Juventus deal that was completed soon after.</p>
<p>Throughout his career, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has usually been the best player in his team and on the pitch. But the occasion is never too big, and he seemingly is never unsure of what to do next.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #0" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://playingfor90.com/2017/12/05/zlatan-ibrahimovics-time-top-ten-goals/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Number one </a>
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<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:590px;">STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – NOVEMBER 14: Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Sweden celebrates scoring his 4th goal during the international friendly match between Sweden and England at the Friends Arena on November 14, 2012 in Stockholm, Sweden. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3><strong>1) vs. England – 2012</strong></h3>
<p>In football just as in life, there are nights where everything goes our way. For Zlatan Ibrahimovic, that was a November evening with Sweden in 2012 against England. The striker scored all four goals in a 4-2 victory over the Three Lions.</p>
<p>It was a truly dominant performance, that also just happened to produce one of the most amazing strikes of all-time.</p>
<p>A long ball forward into the England half saw goalkeeper Joe Hart come out to head the ball clear. He did not strike it well, and Ibra pounced on the opportunity.</p>
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<p>From 30 yards out, a twisting and turning Ibrahimovic sends a breathtaking bicycle-kick into the back of the net. Swedish fans lost their minds. England fans applauded. The football world was in genuine shock.</p>
<p>It takes an immense amount of confidence and bravado to even contemplate this move, let alone try it on the international stage. It reminds us that Zlatan does not think as others do, and does not see things as others see them.</p>
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