20 Best FIFA World Cup Goals Ever

The hat-trick scored by compatriot Geoff Hurst in the final may be the goals that have gone down in English history, but in terms of pure footballing class the best goal en route to the Three Lions' home triumph in 1966 happened a few rounds earlier.

England had begun their campaign with a goalless draw against Uruguay, so it took until their second game at Wembley for their home World Cup really to come to life.

Manchester United's Bobby Charlton was always the most gifted player in the 66 England squad, good on the ball, with strong technique and a powerful shot. And all of those skills were on show in the classic goal with which he opened England's account against Mexico.

Just after the half hour mark, Charlton picked up the ball in the centre circle and ran with it, expertly controlling it with his left foot. As the Mexican defence backed off, Charlton, still 25 yards out, fired a rocketing shot beyond the goalkeeper with his right.

England were on their way and the rest is history.