We’re counting down to the by showcasing a golazo from the global finals each day.
Colombia v Uruguay Brazil 2014 | Round of 16 Maracana, Rio de Janeiro
He started Brazil 2014 as an up-and-coming 22-year-old. He finished it having wowed the world and en route to becoming one of the costliest footballers of all time. James Rodriguez had already illuminated the tournament with a goal in each of Colombia’s group-stage games – and an audience-thrilling Salsa Choke dance celebration – but it was the masterpiece that followed in the last 16 against Uruguay that etched his name into World Cup lore.
The South American rivals were goalless in the 28th minute when Abel Aguilar’s header fell James’s way. The No10 surveyed his surroundings swiftly and, in one motion, chested the ball down, turned and rocketed home a volley for the ages. It shook the Maracana. It earned James the Goal of the Tournament and the FIFA Puskás Award. He would go on to score a second that evening, securing Colombia a 2-0 win and ultimately helping him to the adidas Golden Boot. “It was a special goal for me and all of Colombia," said James.
Sources: FIFA Official
