The Revival of Long-Distance Goals in Spanish Football

In Spanish football, goals scored from distance, an art form believed by statisticians to be fading, have recently played a significant role. Appreciate Rodri's stunning strike for Spain against Georgia during the first Euro 2024 knockout match, which brought immense relief and joy when made from 21 yards with his left foot. Remember also Lamine Yamal's mesmerizing leveller against France in the semifinal-- a goal that stirred the world, acknowleged as the tournament's best, deftly wrapped past Mike Maignan from 26 yards.

Martín Zubimendi's 21-yard volley for the European champions also merits celebration. The defensive midfielder debuted for Spain with a goal that could become critical for Spain's qualification to defend their Nations League title. 

Looking at domestic games, LaLiga also shares similar tales. Luka Sucic's goal, reminiscent of one of Messi's best and from a greater range, highlighted Real Sociedad's 1-1 draw against Atlético Madrid. Additionally, two exceptional goals from Real Madrid against Villarreal, and Madrid's tendency under Carlo Ancelotti to try their luck from range, capture my attention.

Although the big-picture stats suggest that shooting and scoring from distance are less regular phenomena, Madrid seems to defy this trend. Take, for example, Federico Valverde's extraordinary goal at home to Villarreal on Matchday 9 of LaLiga that lead Madrid to victory. Jude Bellingham cunningly dodged Luka Modric's corner before Valverde seized the chance to score with a swift, lethal shot. The goal sparked jubilant cheers from the Bernabeu faithful and a euphoric response from the Uruguay international.

Also noteworthy is Vínícius Júnior's possibly best goal for Madrid that sealed a win, a shot too potent for goalkeeper Diego Conde to stop. As these instances illustrate, long-range goals in Spanish football show no sign of dying out, continuing to play a key part in shaping the beautiful game's narrative.