Burst it like Baseggio
Bruno Versaven didn’t rip open the Sint-Niklaas net with his penalty kick - unless you’re living in a Roy of the Rovers fantasy world. But if you want comic book action, Walter Baseggio’s ferocious left-footed volley against La Louvière on 6th November 2004 is a good place to start.
As Anderlecht struggled to overcome a one goal deficit, the ball fell to the unmarked Baseggio. Keeping the rest of his considerable frame surprisingly still, he took a contemptuous swing at adidas’s bouncing baby, sending it hurtling towards goal. This remarkable clip shows the ball in its death throes; it takes a last sorry breath as it crosses over the penalty spot.
Baseggio’s goal sent Anderlecht on their way to all three points - nearly five months later! La Louvière objected to the ball’s ailing condition as it zipped beyond their ‘keeper. A protest was lodged and protracted deliberations followed: The Belgian FA ordered a replay; Anderlecht protested; the referees’ association fought the good fight and supported their man; the FA did an about-turn and, in the end, the smaller club backed down.