Porto defender Martim Fernandes stunned the football world Thursday. The 20-year-old blasted a misplaced backpass from 45 yards past goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Nottingham Forest equalized instantly in their Europa League quarter-final first leg, ending 1-1.
Fernandes limped off injured minutes later, compounding his nightmare. Fans immediately debate: does this rank among history’s worst own goals?
Lee Dixon chipped Arsenal teammate David Seaman from 25 yards against Coventry in 1991. Jamie Pollock headed a QPR cross over his own keeper in 1998, dooming Manchester City to relegation. Franck Queudrue volleyed a perfect 30-yard clearance into Lens’ net against Bastia in 2001.
Chris Brass suffered double agony in 2006. His clearance hit his own face, broke his nose, and rolled past Kasper Schmeichel into Bury’s goal. Each blunder cements Fernandes’ gaffe in infamy.
