Play Goal! Online

Goal! came out for the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1988, developed and published by Jaleco. It was one of the earlier soccer games on the console, arriving before the more simulation-heavy titles that would follow. It doesn't try to be a complex league manager; it's just a straightforward arcade take on the sport.

You control a team of players from an overhead view, moving the whole squad as a unit to chase the ball down the field. Your main objective is to outscore the opponent, either the computer or a second player. The game's signature mechanics include a dedicated button for sliding tackles, which can be risky but effective, and a simple passing system that automatically targets the nearest teammate. The pacing is quick, and the difficulty ramps up noticeably against stronger CPU teams, demanding sharper positioning and timing on your shots. It feels responsive and direct, like a fast-paced game of foosball brought to life.