Iconic Football Celebrations - Our Top 10 Ranked

Football is more than just a sport—it’s a passion, a lifestyle, and above all, a celebration! Every goal scored is a moment of pure euphoria, not just for the player but for the fans in the stands and watching around the world. And what better way to mark such a moment than with an unforgettable celebration? From heartfelt tributes to iconic dances, these are the top 10 goal celebrations that have left their mark on football history!

10) Iceland Team – The Viking Clap & Creative Celebrations

No team celebrates quite like Iceland! The Icelandic national team captured hearts worldwide with their famous “Viking Clap,” a powerful, synchronized chant between players and fans. But they didn’t stop there—after scoring, the team staged fun celebrations like pretending to catch a giant fish or diving into a swimming competition. Football is about entertainment, and Iceland certainly delivered!

9) Antoine Griezmann – Hotline Bling Dance

Griezmann took football celebrations to another level with his dance inspired by Drake’s “Hotline Bling” music video. The French forward made this his trademark, entertaining fans worldwide with his moves. This celebration became particularly famous during France’s 2018 World Cup triumph, making Griezmann one of the most stylish players in world football.

🚨 Paulo Dybala scores for Roma, celebrates with Antoine Griezmann’s “Hotline Bling” celebration, then posts it on Instagram and tags Griezmann. 👀 pic.twitter.com/8MRNHgW3LE

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) February 9, 2025

8) Ante Rebić – Listening to the Crowd

Some players feed off the energy of the fans, and Croatia’s Ante Rebić is one of them. After scoring in Croatia’s stunning 3-0 victory over Argentina in the 2018 World Cup, he cupped his ears towards the stands, urging the fans to get louder. A classic move that never fails to electrify the crowd!

7) Neymar Jr. – To The World

Neymar is known for his flair, both on and off the pitch. One of his most famous celebrations comes from legendary sprinter Usain Bolt. After scoring, Neymar stretches his arms and points to the world—almost as if declaring himself unstoppable. It’s a fitting celebration for one of the most skillful players in football.

6) Kylian Mbappé – Arms Crossed

Mbappé’s celebration is as cool as his playing style. After finding the net, the French forward crosses his arms over his chest, inspired by his younger brother, who first did it while playing FIFA. A celebration with a family connection, just like Messi’s and Suárez’s—proving once again that football is more than just a game.

Real Madrid academy boys doing Kylian Mbappé’s celebration. 🤍🤝 pic.twitter.com/q3c3nohW2J

— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) February 23, 2025

5) Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández – Kissing the Badge

Football is all about passion and loyalty, and no one embodies that more than Mexico’s Javier Hernández. After scoring against South Korea in the 2018 World Cup, ‘Chicharito’ celebrated by kissing the Mexico national team badge—a clear declaration of his pride and love for his country. Simple, emotional, and deeply meaningful!

4) Gareth Bale – The Heart Gesture

Trademarked and unforgettable—Gareth Bale’s “11 of Hearts” hand gesture is one of the most recognizable goal celebrations in football. Originally used by Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato, Bale popularized the move, sending a message of love to his fans and loved ones. Other stars like Dries Mertens and Wahbi Khazri also adopted this stylish celebration during the 2018 World Cup.

3) Cristiano Ronaldo – The SIUUU Glide

No list of goal celebrations would be complete without Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous “SIUUU” celebration! Over the years, Ronaldo has had multiple iconic celebrations, but his knee-slide glide followed by the famous spinning leap and “SIUUU” chant is a true spectacle. One of the greatest moments featuring this celebration came in the 2018 World Cup against Spain, where Ronaldo’s stunning free-kick sealed a historic hat-trick.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrating with the ball-boys. 😂

pic.twitter.com/Qv2Yrcoqfo

— TC (@totalcristiano) November 16, 2024

2) Lionel Messi – Fingers to the Sky

A celebration as iconic as the player himself! Almost every time Lionel Messi scores, he lifts both index fingers to the sky—a humble yet powerful gesture in honor of his late grandmother, who played a crucial role in his football journey. Messi once explained, “I dedicate my goals to my grandmother. She took me to football, but now she can’t see how far I’ve come.” A simple, emotional, and truly legendary tribute.

1) Luis Suárez – The Three Kisses

Luis Suárez scored twice on Sunday to help his boyhood club Nacional secure the Uruguayan Primera División championship 👏🏆 pic.twitter.com/0brFwjWW8u

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) October 30, 2022

When it comes to passion, few show it quite like Luis Suárez. Every time the Uruguayan finds the back of the net, he follows up with a signature celebration—kissing his wrist and three fingers. This touching tribute is dedicated to his wife and children, showcasing the deep love he has for his family. One of the most memorable instances of this was during the 2018 World Cup when Suárez scored his 52nd international goal in a group-stage match against Saudi Arabia.