The ball dropped out of the sky, and Tim Cahill decided to hit it first time with his left foot. It flew into the top corner. The Australian produced one of the cleanest strikes in World Cup history against the Netherlands in Porto Alegre, in the 21st minute of a group game at the 2014 World Cup.
The volley in Porto Alegre
Cahill struck it on the half-turn from just inside the box, and it went past Jasper Cillessen and into the top corner with serious power. He did not hesitate for a moment. The technique was about as clean as a volley gets: the body adjusted in mid-air, the timing right, the power and placement both perfect.
He was 34 at the time. Age did not seem to matter much.
Australia lost the match 3-2, but the goal was a genuine contender for goal of the tournament and is widely rated among the best volleys the World Cup has seen. Cahill's side went home early. His strike did not leave so quickly, and fans around the world warmed to him because of it.
Tomorrow: number 28.
