Hal Robson-Kanu's Turn, Goal For Wales Is Euro 2016's Defining Moment (So Far)

Every house party in Wales should start with a screening of Hal Robson-Kanu’s turn and goal against Belgium at the 2016 UEFA European Championship.

The Wales striker scored the game-winning goal Friday in the 55th minute of his team’s Euro 2016 quarterfinal win over Belgium, and he did so in stunning style. Robson-Kanu performed the skill move, commonly known as a “(Johan) Cruyff turn,” to outwit three Belgium defenders before he shot past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Great view of Hal Robson Kanu's Cruyff turn and goal:https://t.co/AccYCFwafQ

— christopher stack (@deepstructure) July 1, 2016

Click to see a longer version of Robson-Kanu’s turn and goal

Prior to Friday, Euro 2016, the largest-ever European Championship, had failed to supply as many thrills as the soccer world expected. Teams largely played with caution in the group stage and Round of 16, knowing that any result other than defeat can carry it deep into the tournament (exhibit A: Portugal).

Wales-Belgium was perhaps Euro 2016’s first truly open game played between evenly matched teams. The contest was tense and exciting before Robson-Kanu’s 55th-minute strike, which carried the game to an even higher level of excitement.

History must remember Robson-Kanu’s goal as one of Euro 2016’s defining moments. If the remaining five games don’t produce more moments of this caliber, Robson-Kanu’s turn will be the iconic moment of this year’s tournament.

Who better to deliver in this unpredictable tournament than a player who will be looking for work as soon as Wednesday? Chances are he’ll have an easier time finding his next employer than he would have just a few days ago.

Hal Robson-Kanu: free agent, #EURO2016 quarter-final goal scorer! 👏 #WALBEL #EURO2016 pic.twitter.com/ADh5rMls6F

— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 1, 2016