A typical Lampard goal vs Brazil

Picture 1. Lampard with the ball

FRANK LAMPARD'S GAME-WINNING goal against Brazil is the type of goal the midfielder is known for in his incredible career. At the beginning of the buildup, he received a pass from Glen Johnson on the right midfield. Lampard was level with his midfield partner Gerrard and the fullbacks, Baines and Johnson. Ahead of him, Welbeck, Rooney, Wilshere and Walcott pushed up against the four Brazil defenders. England's 4-2-3-1 shape turned upside down to a 2-4-4 as they attack Brazil who had 9 men behind the ball.

Picture 2. Lampard's forward run

With little forward-passing options, Lampard chose to tap the ball back to Cahill who then found Wilshere dropping back from the advance position. The Arsenal man would set his club teammate Walcott free on the right wing. Meanwhile, Lampard, in the background, made his signature forward run through the center. By the time Walcott prepared to cross, Lampard was unmarked at the 'D' of the Brazil box with Welbeck and Rooney ahead of him.

What Lampard had done up to this point is simple: he made a safe pass, found a path forward and positioned himself well finish off the chance if it came. Wilshere and Walcott, especially the latter, did more on the ball in this buildup, but Lampard's instinctive and intelligent movement got himself into a good situation. Of course, it is not a guarantee that he will get the chance to score but if he does get it, he's ready.

The chance came in a round-about way. Walcott's cross was cleared; Rooney then picked the pocket of the Brazilian player to present Lampard with the opportunity to strike from the edge of the box. The thing about being at the right place at the right time is that people don't notice it unless you score after being at the right place at the right time. The brilliance of the finish was made even better by the composure with which it was executed; a guided, curving shot with the inside of the foot, greeting the post before landing inside the net. A typical Lampard goal indeed.

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