We'll never know if Ronaldinho meant it or not...
On this day in 2002, the Brazillian genius lobbed David Seaman from 35 yards and England were knocked out of the World Cup at the quarter-final stage.
Brazil ended up winning 2-1 and for years, Ronaldinho has been asked whether he meant it or not, often replying: "There was nothing lucky about it".
During his career, he won two Ballon D'ors, a Fifa Player of the Year, a Champions League medal and many other honours. It's generally accepted that he was at the peak of his powers with Barcelona and earlier this year he ended his career with Fluminense, retiring aged 37.
When Ronaldinho stepped up to strike the free kick, the game was level at 1-1. After opening the scoring through Michael Owen, England were pulled back by a Rivaldo equaliser just before half-time.
In the 50th minute, Paul Scholes had given a free kick away on the far right 35 yards out. Ronaldinho launched the ball high into the penalty box and the flight of the ball completely flat-footed David Seaman, the ball curling into the top corner.
"It was definitely a shot," Ronaldinho insisted. "It was Cafu who advised me beforehand that there was a space and that Seaman was standing in a very advanced position in the penalty area. It seemed only natural to have a go, and there was nothing lucky about it."
At the time, England's David Beckham wasn't as convinced that Ronaldinho meant it. He said: "It was not his (Seaman’s) fault, the goal was a fluke. It was a cross that ended up being a goal."
Maybe we'll never know if he meant it or not ...
