Shabba's 2010 WC Strike: A Look Back At The Goal That Captivated A Nation

On This Day, Kaizer Chiefs legend Siphiwe Tshabalala scored a goal for Bafana Bafana at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, that would change the course of his life.

Here's a look at how at Shabba's memorable strike against Mexico propelled him to stardom.

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The story

It's been 14 years since Siphiwe Tshabalala scored that magnificent goal against Mexico in the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup at FNB Stadium, a moment that will forever live the memories of South African football fans.

Tshabalala unleashed the venomous strike with his left foot from inside the area, after a net line-breaking pass from Kagisho Dikgacoi, leaving Óscar Pérez zero chance to make a save, as Shabba struck the ball with such vim that it flew past the Mexico goalkeeper and hit the top right corner of the posts, just moments before the hour mark.

The goal sent not only a sold-out FNB Stadium, but the whole country into wild, vuvuzela-filled celebrations, a simply unforgettable moment that's remembered as one the most iconic goals ever scored at a World Cup.

From Peter Drury's rhapsodic commentary to the "Shabba dance" celebration, the goal gave us so many moment to savour. Shabba is certainly in no rush to forget the special moment and annually, he and the rest of the football world pay tribute to 2010 Puskas Award-winning goal.

The goal saw Shabba reach a new level of fame both locally and internationally. Despite his other notable career achievements, especially during his time at Amakhosi, this goal has helped Shabba build a world class personal brand that will feed him years after he's retired.

He works with brands such as Betway, Nedbank, Future Life, Coca-Cola, and even CAF, with Japanese car makers, Hyundai, taking him to Qatar for the previous World Cup. It's safe to say the Shabba brand will only get bigger from here, despite his best playing days being far behind him.

Shabba shared an excerpt of an interview he did back in 2007, where he expressed his desire to play in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. He captioned the post: "I did this interview back in 2007. My ultimate dream was to play the World Cup in 2010. It was a big dream that required commitment, hard work, consistency and discipline.

"My Dream became a reality on the 11.06.2010 and on 55th minute, God showed up and he showed off. Dear Dreamers: dream big and [don't] limit yourself. It's free to dream. Don't underestimate the power of words. Happy #ShabbaDay.