Javier Hernández, also known as "Chicharito," has made an indelible mark on world football with his unparalleled knack for scoring. From classic poacher's finishes to audacious rainbow flicks, his goals have come in every shape and form. Whether at iconic stadiums like the Santiago Bernabéu, Old Trafford, or under the intense spotlight of the World Cup, Hernández's ability to deliver in crucial moments has cemented his legacy as one of Mexico's greatest ever strikers. As he embarks on a new journey with FOX Sports as an analyst for the 2026 World Cup, it’s the perfect time to look back at 10 goals that define his illustrious career. Here are some of his most iconic strikes, along with a couple of honorable mentions.
Honorable Mentions: Early Impressions and Important Moments
CHICHARITO GETS HIS GOAL! pic.twitter.com/i6ougYi1Sc
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2018
Chivas vs. Tecos (Liga MX Clausura 2010)
One of the earliest glimpses of Hernández's potential came during the Torneo Bicentenario. With Chivas trailing 2-1, Hernández took charge in the second half, scoring twice to seal the comeback. This performance highlighted his readiness to play at a higher level, setting the stage for his move to international football.
LA Galaxy vs. Colorado Rapids (2022 MLS Regular Season)
Hernández's return to the United States marked an unforgettable moment in his career when he scored a stunning goal for LA Galaxy against the Colorado Rapids. His world-class strike added to his already impressive resume and reminded fans of his enduring talent even late in his career.
Top 10 Goals: A Career of Legendary Strikes
TECATITO ➡️ CHICHARITO! 👀
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) September 7, 2019
Corona takes Dest to school on the right wing and feeds Mexico's all-time leading scorer for the opening goal. #USAvMEX pic.twitter.com/WM2YXqNLEi
10. Mexico vs. France (2010 World Cup Group Stage)
This iconic World Cup moment introduced Hernández to the global stage. Breaking through the French defense, he latched onto a perfect pass from Rafael Márquez, sidestepped goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, and scored to give Mexico the lead. It was a historic goal not only because it marked his first World Cup strike but also because it held special sentimental value—his grandfather had scored for Mexico against France in the 1954 tournament.
9. Manchester United vs. Chelsea (2010 FA Community Shield)
In his debut for Manchester United, Hernández scored in the 2010 FA Community Shield against Chelsea. It was a chaotic yet brilliant moment—Hernández used every part of his body to score, including his face, after a cross from Antonio Valencia. The goal immediately made an impact and solidified his place in United’s attacking ranks.
8. Bayer Leverkusen vs. Borussia Mönchengladbach (2015-16 Bundesliga)
Hernández's hat trick for Bayer Leverkusen against Borussia Mönchengladbach remains one of his finest club performances. His third goal of the match was a masterpiece—he controlled a perfectly timed diagonal ball with one touch before firing it into the roof of the net. This performance in Germany proved his ability to shine on the European stage.
Game-Changing Goals: Hernández's Heroics on the Biggest Stages
Debut con gol para Javier “Chicharito” Hernández en Manchester United 🇲🇽
— Manchester United (@ManUtd_Es) August 8, 2021
🆚 Chelsea en Wembley, Londres.#MUFC #GoalOfTheDaypic.twitter.com/iU8YmIQBoE
7. Mexico vs. Argentina (2010 World Cup Round of 16)
In the highly anticipated Round of 16 match against Argentina, Hernández opened the scoring with a trademark diving header from Jesús "Tecatito" Corona’s cross. This was another example of his ability to rise to the occasion in the biggest tournaments, helping Mexico to push one of the World Cup favorites to the limit.
6. Mexico vs. Croatia (2014 World Cup Group Stage)
Hernández’s header against Croatia in the 2014 World Cup sealed Mexico’s passage to the knockout round. After a corner kick, Hernández powered in a header that sent Mexico to the Round of 16. His celebration, pointing to the sky, was a powerful moment of emotion, knowing his country was still alive in the tournament.
5. Manchester United vs. Stoke City (2010-11 Premier League)
Hernández’s header against Stoke City in the Premier League remains one of the most iconic goals of his Manchester United career. Facing away from goal, he flicked a backward header past the goalkeeper in a moment that defied the laws of physics. The goal was as unorthodox as it was brilliant.
The Iconic Finishes: Defining Hernández’s Legacy
4. Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid (2014 Champions League Quarterfinal)
In one of the most memorable moments of his Real Madrid career, Hernández scored the winner in a dramatic Champions League quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid. His perfectly timed run and finish off Cristiano Ronaldo’s cross at the Bernabéu earned him hero status among Madrid fans.
3. Mexico vs. Argentina (2010 World Cup Round of 16)
Hernández’s ability to score at the World Cup was showcased once again with his memorable diving header against Argentina. His precise timing and composure to score with his head made it one of his most iconic goals, leaving an indelible mark on Mexico's World Cup history.
2. Manchester United vs. Stoke City (2010-11 Premier League)
Physics forgot to apply at Britannia Stadium when Hernández flicked an incredible backward header into the far corner. This unorthodox yet brilliant goal proved his ability to make something special out of seemingly impossible situations.
1. Mexico vs. France (2010 World Cup Group Stage)
Arguably his most iconic goal, Hernández’s breakthrough moment came during Mexico’s match against France in the 2010 World Cup. His clinical finish past Hugo Lloris was a statement of intent on the global stage, and it marked the beginning of what would be a glittering career for the Mexican striker.
2026 FIFA World Cup: How to Watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place across three countries—United States, Mexico, and Canada—from June 11–July 19. Every match will be broadcast live on FOX (70) and FS1 (34), with all games available for streaming on FOX One and the FOX Sports app. The tournament promises to be one of the most exciting in history, culminating in the final on July 19 at the New York-New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
