One-goal wonders of world football

Juliano Belletti

The Brazilian utility man was never pretty much sure of his chances in the Barcelona squad as he saw himself left out of the starting 11 against Arsenal in the 2006 Champions’ League final. Barcelona were in total control of the game as they saw Gunners’ keeper Lehmann justifying why he is referred to as MAD JENS by getting sent off. But Arsenal surprisingly took lead and stretched their advantage till 75 minutes, but eventually they were undone by an Eto’o goal. Still the game looked like going into extra time when Belletti stepped in for Oleguer, and the rest is history. It was high time for a winner and Belletti upped his game at the moment when required. Rain pouring from above, he came surging from within his half and played an one-two with Larsen and scored from the tightest angle possible – right through the legs of Almunia. He had won Barcelona a major European silverware after a long time.