Substitutes in football are often brought on to change the flow of a game, provide fresh legs, or inject creativity into an attack. However, some substitutes have gone far beyond expectations by making an immediate impact—scoring within seconds of stepping onto the pitch. These moments of brilliance not only lift the team’s morale but also leave fans and opponents stunned. Over the years, we’ve witnessed remarkable goals scored almost instantly after a substitution, from high-profile stars in elite competitions to lesser-known players in smaller leagues. In this list, we count down the top 10 fastest substitute goals in football history, celebrating those rare instances where quick thinking, sharp positioning, and flawless execution combined to create unforgettable moments.
10. Vinicius Jr
- 14 seconds | Real Madrid vs Shakhtar Donetsk
Vinicius Jr, one of the brightest young stars in world football, delivered one of the fastest goals by a substitute in football history when he netted just 14 seconds after coming on for Real Madrid against Shakhtar Donetsk. In a high-intensity UEFA Champions League clash, Real Madrid needed an injection of pace and creativity. Carlo Ancelotti turned to Vinicius, and the Brazilian wasted no time making his mark. Immediately after replacing his teammate, he exploited a gap in the defense, sprinted into space, and calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.
This moment reflected the growing influence of substitutes in football, proving that a single run and a well-timed pass can completely change a game. Vinicius’s goal not only demonstrated his quick thinking but also underlined the tactical value of introducing pace late in a match. Scoring within 14 seconds is a testament to sharpness, awareness, and preparation, making this goal one of the most memorable substitute strikes in modern football. It remains a perfect example of how a player can be match-ready the moment they step on the pitch.
9. Ledley King
- 9.82 seconds | Tottenham Hotspur vs Bradford City
Ledley King, known more for his defensive qualities, stunned everyone with an incredible 9.82-second goal for Tottenham Hotspur against Bradford City. This lightning-fast strike came almost immediately after his introduction, showcasing how substitutes in football can completely alter the tempo of a game. As soon as King entered the pitch, a misplaced pass from the opposition fell kindly to him. Without hesitation, he surged forward and took a shot that flew past the goalkeeper into the net.
This goal was unique because it came from a player whose main role was to prevent goals rather than score them. King’s strike highlighted the unpredictable nature of football, where even a defender can grab the headlines with an extraordinary moment. His record stood for years as one of the quickest goals in Premier League history, further emphasizing the importance of substitutes being fully alert and ready to exploit any opportunity. For Tottenham fans, it was a rare yet unforgettable attacking highlight from one of their most respected defenders.
8. Philip Billing
- 9.11 seconds | Bournemouth vs Arsenal
Philip Billing’s goal for Bournemouth against Arsenal in just 9.11 seconds remains one of the fastest strikes in Premier League history. What makes this feat even more impressive is that it came against one of the league’s strongest sides. Bournemouth kicked off the match, and a quick passing move caught Arsenal completely off-guard. Billing timed his run perfectly, arriving in the box to finish off the move with composure.
This was not just a quick goal; it was a tactical masterclass in starting games aggressively. Billing’s early strike showed that substitutes in football—or in this case, a fresh starter with an immediate impact—can set the tone right from the whistle. Although Arsenal eventually fought back, Billing’s goal made headlines worldwide and sparked debates about defensive readiness at the start of games. It serves as a reminder that sharpness from the first second can be the difference between winning and losing at the highest level.
7. Kylian Mbappe
- 8 seconds | PSG vs Lille
Kylian Mbappe’s blistering speed is legendary, and he proved it once again by scoring just 8 seconds after coming on for Paris Saint-Germain against Lille. Known for his ability to exploit defensive gaps, Mbappe latched onto a perfectly weighted through ball, outpaced his marker, and finished with typical precision.
This goal underlined why substitutes in football can be so dangerous when they possess raw pace. Defenders who have been playing for most of the match often find it difficult to match the energy of a fresh attacker. Mbappe’s strike wasn’t just about speed—it was about timing, positioning, and ruthlessness in front of goal. For PSG fans, it was another reminder of why the Frenchman is among the most feared forwards in the world. The moment also reinforced the tactical advantage of introducing pace late in games, catching tired defenses off guard.
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6. Shane Long
- 7.69 seconds | Southampton vs Watford
Shane Long holds the record for the fastest goal in Premier League history, netting after just 7.69 seconds for Southampton against Watford. While this goal came from the start of the match rather than as a substitute, it remains one of the most iconic quick strikes in football. Southampton pressed high from kickoff, forcing a defensive error. Long pounced on the loose ball, took a touch, and lifted it over the goalkeeper with incredible composure.
In discussions about substitutes in football, Long’s goal serves as inspiration for those coming on late in games—impact can be made in an instant. The strike demonstrated the value of alertness, anticipation, and decisiveness. Even though Long was a starter in this case, his mentality of acting fast and seizing the moment is exactly what coaches expect from substitutes entering the pitch.
5. Nicklas Bendtner
- 6 seconds | Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur
Nicklas Bendtner’s 6-second goal for Arsenal against fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur was a moment of pure impact. Coming on as a substitute, the Danish striker immediately got on the end of a corner kick to head home, leaving Spurs stunned. The timing could not have been better, with Arsenal looking to break the deadlock in a tense North London derby.
Bendtner’s strike is a textbook case of how substitutes in football can completely shift the atmosphere in a stadium. His readiness to attack the ball, combined with sharp positioning, made this goal possible. For Arsenal fans, it was one of the most satisfying moments against their rivals, and for Bendtner, it became a defining moment in his career. The goal remains a reminder that substitutes don’t need time to warm up—they just need the right opportunity.
4. Cheung Sai Ho
- 2.8 seconds | Kitchee vs South China
Cheung Sai Ho’s 2.8-second goal for Kitchee against South China is one of the fastest recorded in professional football. This incredible strike came from kickoff, as Cheung spotted the goalkeeper off his line and launched a perfectly placed shot from distance. The ball sailed over the keeper and into the net before the opposition could react.
For substitutes in football, such quick thinking and execution are vital qualities. While Cheung’s goal didn’t come as a late substitute, the principle remains the same: act before the opponent can organize. The strike became legendary in Hong Kong football and is still discussed whenever the topic of fastest goals arises. It perfectly encapsulates the blend of awareness and technical skill required to achieve such a feat.
3. Marc Burrows
- 2.56 seconds | Cowes Sports vs Eastleigh reserves
Marc Burrows scored an unbelievable 2.56-second goal for Cowes Sports against Eastleigh reserves, a record that was later recognized in the Guinness World Records. Burrows spotted the goalkeeper off his line right from the kickoff and launched a shot that flew straight into the net.
While not in the professional leagues, this goal remains a shining example of why substitutes in football—or any player—must always be alert. Burrows’ strike gained international attention for its sheer audacity and precision. It’s a perfect illustration that quick goals are not just about speed but also about vision, execution, and confidence.
2. Vuk Bakic
- 2.2 seconds | OFK Beograd vs Rakovica
Vuk Bakic scored in just 2.2 seconds for OFK Beograd against Rakovica, making it one of the fastest competitive goals ever recorded. The goal came directly from the kickoff, with Bakic firing a long-range shot that left the goalkeeper stranded.
In the context of substitutes in football, such moments highlight how a single action can define a game. Bakic’s decision to take an immediate shot paid off spectacularly. While rare, these instances prove that sometimes the element of surprise is the greatest weapon in football.
1. Gavin Stokes
- 2.1 seconds | Maryhill vs Clydebank A.F.C.
The fastest recorded goal in football history belongs to Gavin Stokes, who scored in just 2.1 seconds for Maryhill against Clydebank A.F.C. This astonishing strike came from the kickoff, as Stokes launched the ball straight into the net before anyone could react.
For the discussion of substitutes in football, this goal serves as the ultimate example of being ready to make an immediate impact. Even though it was not from a substitution, it perfectly reflects the mentality coaches want from players coming off the bench—quick thinking, confidence, and execution without hesitation. Stokes’ record is celebrated across football communities and stands as a benchmark for quick-fire goals.
FAQs
Q1: What is the fastest goal scored by substitutes in football history?
The fastest known goal scored by substitutes in football is Nicklas Bendtner’s 6-second strike for Arsenal against Tottenham Hotspur in 2007.
Q2: Do substitutes in football score faster than starting players?
Not always, but substitutes in football often have fresher legs and can exploit tired defenses, making quick goals more likely.
Q3: Can a goal be scored directly from kickoff?
Yes, as seen with Gavin Stokes, Vuk Bakic, and Marc Burrows, who all scored from kickoff within seconds.
Q4: Why are substitutes in football important?
Substitutes in football bring fresh energy, tactical variety, and game-changing moments that can alter match outcomes instantly.
Q5: Are quick goals more common in lower leagues?
They can occur at any level, but lower leagues sometimes see more due to defensive lapses and unexpected tactics.
