Johan Cruyff (foto: Getty Images)
The 'Cruyff Turn' marks its 50th anniversary today.
This masterful move was 'patented' by one of the most revered players and coaches of all time during the 1974 World Cup.
On June 19, 1974, the iconic moment occurred. It was a match between Sweden and the Netherlands, and in the 24th minute, the legendary Johan Cruyff stunned the world. One of the most iconic players of all time masterfully received the ball and then mesmerized even more by performing a cunning turn, leaving the Swedish defender behind and passing the ball into the middle.
This is how the move known as the 'Cruyff Turn' was born, and it continues to be featured on television and circulated widely on the internet in the form of a clip.
The move has become a staple in the repertoire of many attacking football stars. Cruyff was probably not the first player to ever use it. In the 'cradle of football,' Brazil, there's much to be said about this. Some claim that the legendary Pele performed the move as early as the 1960s. Others might also claim ownership of this clever and inventive move, but the world collectively recognized it only at the 1974 World Cup when Cruyff executed it. He led the Netherlands all the way to the final, where they were defeated by West Germany, 2-1.
Currently, Euro 2024 is underway, and the Dutch were successful in their first group stage match, defeating Poland 2-1.