Goalkeepers are often underrated and don’t receive the praise that they should. Today, we are going to dive into some outstanding saves.
Ranking the top 10 greatest goalkeeper saves is always subjective, but these saves stand out due to their difficulty, significance, and sheer brilliance.
1. Gordon Banks vs. Pelé (1970 World Cup)
Often called the “save of the century,” Banks denied Pelé’s powerful header with a reflexive dive, scooping the ball over the bar when it seemed destined to go in. It was a mix of agility, anticipation, and technique.
2. David Seaman vs. Sheffield United (2003 FA Cup Semi-final)
Seaman, often known as one of the best goalkeepers in Premier League history, made his greatest save at the age of 39. The occasion was big however, this is in the list due to pure brilliance. Seaman made an astonishing reaction save, clawing a close-range header off the line with one hand. The ball seemed to have gone past him, but he somehow kept it out.
3. Manuel Neuer vs. Arsenal (2014 Champions League)
Neuer in 2014 was one of the best goalkeepers in world football. Once they faced Arsenal he cemented this reputation. Neuer stopped Mesut Özil’s penalty with a combination of power and positioning and later made a stunning reflex save to deny a deflected shot, showcasing his dominance as a modern sweeper-keeper.
4. Iker Casillas vs. Robben (2010 World Cup Final)
Iker Casillas, known for his incredible agility and reactions made a crucial save in the 2010 World Cup final. With the game tied at 0-0, Robben was through on goal and looked certain to score. Casillas made a crucial one-on-one save with his foot, helping Spain secure their first-ever World Cup. Who would've known what happened if Robben had scored in that moment in the most important game in the world?
5. Peter Schmeichel vs. Rapid Vienna (1996 Champions League)
A legendary reflex save from close range, Schmeichel used his signature starfish technique to stop what seemed to be an unstoppable shot. Being able to lift the ball back over the net was simply stunning to see!
6. Gianluigi Buffon vs. Zidane (2006 World Cup Final)
Buffon was a keeper who oozes class and in the World Cup final he made an incredible save. It may not have been the greatest save in his career however, it definitely would be the most significant. Zidane’s bullet header in extra time was set to be a legendary winner, but Buffon’s lightning-quick reaction tipped it over the bar, keeping Italy in the game before their eventual win on penalties.
7. Alisson Becker vs. Napoli (2018 Champions League Group Stage)
In the dying moments, Alisson denied Arkadiusz Milik from point-blank range, ensuring Liverpool’s qualification for the knockout stage, which eventually led to their Champions League victory. Alisson has made world-class saves throughout his career and this is definitely in his top 3.
8. Edwin van der Sar vs. Chelsea (2008 Champions League Final, Penalty Save)
There can’t be a top 10 saves list without a penalty save being included! Van Der Sar made a decisive save in the penalty shootout against Nicolas Anelka, securing Manchester United’s third Champions League title in a high-pressure moment, making him a legend at the club.
9. René Higuita vs. England (1995 “Scorpion Kick” Save)
While not the most crucial, this was one of the most iconic saves ever. Instead of a conventional stop, Higuita leapt forward and cleared a shot using a backward “scorpion kick.” Higuita may not be so high on the list for goalkeeping ability however, he is a huge entertainer. A real fan legend.
10. Marc-André ter Stegen vs. Bayern Munich (2015 Champions League Semi-final)
A stunning one-on-one save against Robert Lewandowski, where he spread his body wide and showed incredible reflexes, helping Barcelona reach the final and eventually win the treble.
Each of these saves was memorable for its technique, difficulty, and significance in football history. If you're an aspiring goalkeeper and would like to replicate these saves we have products made for you!
The Football Flick Essentials Hand-Held Rebounder
This is a 60x60cm hand-held rebounder with detachable handles. The rebounder helps improve skills in goalkeeper agility & reaction speeds.
The Football Flick Urban Return Ball
The Urban return ball is a great way to practise goalkeeper keeping without having to chase the ball. You can also wait for the return to make a reaction save.
