Few footballers have ever struck a ball quite like former Liverpool duo Steven Gerrard and John Arne Riise – Gerrard with his thunderous right foot, Riise with his cannon of a left.
Both are remembered for iconic goals: Gerrard’s stoppage-time rocket in the 2006 FA Cup final, and Riise’s unstoppable free-kick against Manchester United in 2001.
But after years of debate over who really had the hardest shot, the two Reds legends finally put it to the test – and Riise came out on top.
The contest took place the day before the Nexon Icons legends match at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. The two sets of players went head-to-head in a series of challenges, including one that saw Gerrard and Riise blasting balls at a specially-built prop lined with stacked sheets designed to test raw power.
Riise’s strike proved the stronger, smashing through the entire obstacle and drawing gasps from the South Korean crowd. Gerrard’s effort, while still powerful, only made it partway through.
The moment sparked huge cheers – and laughter – from the players and fans alike. Riise later shared the footage on Instagram with the caption: “Memories made today. The welcome we have from the fans in Korea is insane!” Gerrard replied in good spirits, dropping a simple laughing emoji.
As for the exhibition game itself, Riise had the last laugh once again. His team of legendary defenders beat Gerrard’s team of attackers 2-1, thanks to late goals from Maicon and Jooho Park.
Riise 2, Gerrard nil.
