In 2014, the world class talents of Robbie Keane are clearly apparent, after all, just look at his stunning goal against FC Dallas on Wednesday, but in 2002, the Irish striker was still a young up-and-coming talent before he truly burst onto the global scene with a goal in the 2002 FIFA World Cup against eventual finalist Germany.
In the latest edition of MLSsoccer.com's World Cup Memories segment, Robbie Keane reflects upon his goal.
Down 1-0 to Germany in stoppage time, Irish outside back Steve Finnan fired a long-ball forward into the penalty area that Niall Quinn headed onto the path of the chagring Keane, who chested the ball down, evaded a German defender, and then fired a right-footed shot past legendary goalkeeper Oliver Kahn.
Ireland would advance to the knockout stages in second place of Group E before falling to Spain in penalties. Germany charged toward the final -- defeating Bruce Arena, Landon Donovan and the United States in the quarterfinals -- before falling to eventual champions Brazil. Prior to Ronaldo's brace in the final, Keane's goal was the only other goal that Kahn conceded during the entire tournament.
As Keane reflects on his memorable goal, the legacy that it leaves is not lost on the Irish striker.
"As a kid growing up, collecting sticker books and watching the team [Republic of Ireland], I remember the 1994 World Cup in America when Ray Houghton scored that goal against Italy when he lobbed the goalkeeper," Keane told MLSsoccer.com. "That moment was special, certainly a moment you'll never forget. And for me now, as a player, in years to come hopefully the other players say they remember that goal Robbie Keane scored in 2002."
Watch the video of Keane below and check out that familiar cartwheel celebration.
