World Cup wonder goals: Owen's solo stunner

Relive the England sensation's memorable strike against Argentina at France 1998.

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Michael OwenMichael Owen

Argentina v England France 1998 | Round of 16 Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne

Onderwerp/Subject: Argentina - England World Cup 1998 Seizoen/Season: 1997/1998 1998/1999 FOTO/PHOTO: England s Michael OWEN R on his way to his supergoal, Argentina s Jose CHAMOT L is trying to stop him ST ETIENNE FRA Content not available for redistribution in The Netherlands directly or indirectly through any third parties. Copyright: xPICSxUNITED/ERICxVERHOEVENx 982223830

"The goal definitely changed my life,” Michael Owen would later state, as he reflected on the strike which propelled him to global stardom.

England's last-16 tie against Argentina at France 1998 was locked at 1-1 after 15 breathless minutes when Owen seized his moment. The 18-year-old striker alighted on a chipped pass from David Beckham, taking a perfect first touch to set him on his way towards goal. He blazed past Jose Chamot and Roberto Ayala before firing a sensational finish beyond goalkeeper Carlos Roa.

While a dramatic contest ultimately ended in heartbreak for England, with Argentina prevailing in a penalty shootout, Owen had produced one of his country's greatest World Cup goals.

"I don't think it changed me as me, but to the outside world and people looking at me, it just brought a lot more scrutiny," he added. "It announced me to the world of football. In that way, it changed my life."


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