Thirty Years of Genius: The True Story Behind the "Scorpion Kick" | OneFootball

30 year on, the Colombian legend’s Wembley moment remains unmatched

Photograph: Ross Kinnaird/Empics

On 6 September 1995 the world witnessed one of football’s most iconic acts of audacity at Wembley Stadium.

During friendly between England & Colombia, goalkeeper Rene Higuita unveiled the legendary "Scorpion Kick" to bbc , turning simple save into moment of pure artistry.

How the idea was born

Higuita revealed that the move was inspired by child during soda commercial in Colombia. The youngster struck the ball with his legs behind his back sparking the keeper’s imagination.

Two year later after endless training ground experiments, Higuita unleashed it on the grandest stage .. in front of 76000 fan at Wembley.

The unforgettable moment

When Jamie Redknapp’s tame shot floated toward goal, Higuita stunned the crowd: diving forward, arching his back and flicking the ball away with his heels like scorpion’s tail.

Even commentator Martin Tyler was left in disbelief expecting the referee’s whistle. Instead play continued and legend was born.

Legacy of El Loco

Nicknamed El Loco, Higuita was much more than showman. He revolutionized the goalkeeper’s role inspiring FIFA’s backpass rule and racked up 43 career goal.

Though mistakes including Roger Milla’s famous steal at Italia 90 , sometimes overshadowed him, Higuita embodied bravery, risk and showmanship.

Thirty years later, his Scorpion Kick remains 1 of football’s most replayed moments .. a reminder that genius often comes from madness.