Hulk at 38: Thunderbolt from 35 Meters! A Scoring Machine with a Warrior’s Spirit

Age is just a number for Givanildo Vieira de Souza, better known as Hulk. The 38-year-old powerhouse forward is still terrorizing goalkeepers with his signature thunderous strikes, proving that his legendary "cannonball" shot remains as devastating as ever.

On February 16, in the first leg of the Campeonato Mineiro semifinals, Atlético Mineiro cruised to a 2-0 victory over Tombense, with Hulk delivering a breathtaking brace. The highlight? A 35-meter free-kick missile, the kind of strike that only a few in football history could dream of executing.

Atlético Mineiro’s Title Ambitions: Hulk Leads the Charge

The Campeonato Mineiro kicked off on January 18, with Atlético Mineiro placed in Group A. After eight group-stage matches, Atlético finished second with 16 points, setting up a semifinal clash against group leaders Tombense.

Heading into the first leg, all eyes were on Hulk. The team captain, the symbol of Atlético Mineiro’s attacking force, and, most importantly, the undisputed leader in the dressing room.

For 45 minutes, Tombense held their ground, absorbing pressure and frustrating Atlético’s frontline. But in the second half, Hulk took control.

Hulk’s Dominance: A Penalty and a Thunderous Free-Kick

The breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Atlético was awarded a penalty. With his usual composure, Hulk stepped up, sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, and slotted the ball home. 1-0 Atlético.

But Hulk wasn’t done.

Seven minutes later, the moment of pure footballing magic arrived.

In the 65th minute, Atlético won a free kick from an astonishing 35 meters out. The distance was daunting, the angle tricky, but Hulk—known for his explosive left foot—never hesitates when it comes to long-range strikes.

Taking just two powerful steps, he unleashed a left-footed rocket with an incredible swerve and dip. The ball soared over the defensive wall, dipped violently in its final moments, and smashed against the underside of the crossbar before nestling into the net.

The goalkeeper? Completely helpless.

The reaction? Pure chaos.

Fans inside the stadium erupted in wild celebration, as even the commentators struggled to describe the sheer brutality of the strike. The speed of the shot exceeded 100 km/h, a perfect combination of precision, power, and technique.

It was a goal that embodied Hulk’s career—relentless, powerful, and awe-inspiring.

A Warrior’s Celebration: The Hulk Mode Activated

After watching his 35-meter missile crash into the back of the net, Hulk delivered a celebration that has become his trademark—the iconic “Green Monster” pose, flexing his massive arms, showcasing the physique that has made him one of football’s most physically dominant players.

Despite being 38 years old, he still commands respect and fear on the pitch, steamrolling through defenses like a wrecking ball.

Hulk's Incredible Form: 6 Matches, 7 Goals, and a Scoring Streak

This season, Hulk has been on fire, showing no signs of slowing down.

• 6 appearances in the Campeonato Mineiro
• 7 goals, leading the league’s top scorers chart
• Scored in his last 5 consecutive matches

Since returning to Brazil in 2021 after leaving Shanghai Port, Hulk has played 231 matches for Atlético Mineiro, scoring 119 goals and providing 45 assists. In four years, he has maintained elite-level performances, proving his longevity and resilience.

A Living Legend: Hulk Among the World’s Best Active Scorers

His unstoppable goal-scoring has earned him a place among the world's most prolific active players.

According to Globo Esporte, Hulk has now scored 439 career goals, overtaking Harry Kane (437 goals) and drawing level with Neymar.

Among all active footballers, Hulk currently ranks 8th in goals scored:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 925 goals
2. Lionel Messi – 850 goals
3. Robert Lewandowski – 698 goals
4. Luis Suárez – 583 goals
5. Karim Benzema – 488 goals
6. Edinson Cavani – 461 goals
7. Edin Džeko – 444 goals
8. Hulk / Neymar – 439 goals

To still be in this elite company at 38 years old is a testament to Hulk’s dedication, physical conditioning, and undying hunger for goals.

A Timeless Force: The Green Giant Marches On

Football has seen many great strikers fade with age, but Hulk is defying time. His raw power, clinical finishing, and warrior mentality keep him at the top of his game.

His 35-meter thunderbolt was more than just a spectacular goal—it was a statement. A message that, at 38, Hulk is far from done.

Whether it’s in Brazil, Europe, or even the World Cup, Hulk remains a fearsome attacking force, delivering moments of footballing brilliance that few can replicate.

And if there’s one certainty in football, it’s this:

As long as Hulk steps onto the pitch, defenders and goalkeepers will always have something to fear.