Super subs! - Popular substitutions that changed football history

GhanaWeb Feature by Benjamin Sackey

The fairy tale of football continues to make it one of the most unpredictable sporting disciplines, capable of driving fans into a frenzy.

During matches, substitutions are made to change the dynamics of the game in hopes of achieving a positive impact, and many have rewritten the narratives of major competitions.

While some substitutes scored goals that won trophies, others secured qualification to the next stage of tournaments.

This article highlights some of the most famous substitutions that changed football history.

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Mario Götze vs Argentina (2014 World Cup)

Mario Götze changed the fortunes of Germany with his last-gasp goal that secured the country's 4th FIFA World Cup trophy in 2014.

Often regarded as a “super sub,” Götze came on from the bench shortly before the end of normal time.

He controlled André Schürrle’s cross from the left on his chest before volleying a left-footed shot into the net, sealing a 1–0 victory over Argentina.

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In 2014

Mario Gotze, a Messi fanboy

Scored the winning goal for Germany to end Messi’s dream of winning the World Cup 2014… 💔😞

This is how he reacted after. A thread 🧵 pic.twitter.com/FFx9hjDtjN

— Kuame Oliver (@KuameOli) June 13, 2024

Rodrygo vs Manchester City (2022 Champions League)

Rodrygo Goes’ late double inspired Real Madrid to an astonishing comeback against Manchester City, setting up a Champions League final against Liverpool.

Real Madrid were trailing 5-3 on aggregate heading into the 90th minute at the Bernabéu after Riyad Mahrez had given City the lead in the 73rd minute.

But two goals in two minutes from substitute Rodrygo made it 2-1 on the night (5-5 on aggregate), sending the tie into extra time.

Karim Benzema’s extra-time penalty clinched an incredible 6-5 aggregate victory for Real Madrid. Madrid went ahead to win their 14th Champions League trophy after beating Liverpool in the final in Paris.

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Watch the highlight below

1. Rodrygo Vs Manchester City, 2022.pic.twitter.com/UXtPAdhXzu

— Unscripted Press (@UnscriptedPress) August 12, 2025

İlkay Gündoğan vs Aston Villa (2022 Premier League)

Gündoğan, introduced in the 68th minute, sparked Manchester City’s title-winning comeback with a towering header.

Raheem Sterling, another substitute, delivered the cross after surging to the byline, while Oleksandr Zinchenko, Pep Guardiola’s first change in the game set up the equaliser by pulling the ball back for Rodri, who finished from the edge of the box.

Three goals in five minutes sealed the comeback, capped by Kevin De Bruyne’s burst past three Villa players and low cross for Gündoğan to slot home at the far post.

It was City’s eighth league title, their sixth since the Abu Dhabi takeover, and their fourth under Guardiola.

Watch the highlight below

1. Rodrygo Vs Manchester City, 2022.pic.twitter.com/UXtPAdhXzu

— Unscripted Press (@UnscriptedPress) August 12, 2025

Tim Krul vs Costa Rica (2014 World Cup)

Tim Krul was introduced in the final minute of extra time and went on to save two penalties in a 4-3 shootout win over Costa Rica, sending the Netherlands into the World Cup semi-finals in Brazil.

The Newcastle goalkeeper denied Costa Rica captain Bryan Ruiz and Michael Umaña after a tense match had ended 0-0.

Watch the highlight below

3. Tim Krul replaced Jasper Cillessen in WC Quarterfinals and saved 2 penalties to qualify Netherlands to the semifinals.pic.twitter.com/PpqKdZZK0J

— Unscripted Press (@UnscriptedPress) August 12, 2025

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