The FIFA World Cup is more than just a tournament; it is a global event that unites millions of football fans worldwide. Since its inception, the competition has delivered legendary matches that have shaped the history of football. Here’s a look back at the most unforgettable World Cup encounters.
1. Brazil vs. Uruguay (1950) – “Maracanazo”
- ???? Date: July 16, 1950
- ???? Stadium: Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro
- ⚽ Score: Brazil 1-2 Uruguay
This match remains one of the biggest shocks in football history. Brazil, the heavy favorites, played in front of 200,000 spectators at the Maracanã, fully expecting to win their first World Cup. However, Uruguay stunned the world, coming from behind with a goal by Alcides Ghiggia in the 79th minute. The moment, known as “Maracanazo”, remains a national trauma for Brazilian football.
2. England vs. West Germany (1966) – The “Ghost Goal” Final
- ???? Date: July 30, 1966
- ???? Stadium: Wembley, London
- ⚽ Score: England 4-2 West Germany (after extra time)
This match sparked one of football’s greatest controversies. In extra time, with the score tied at 2-2, Geoff Hurst fired a shot that hit the crossbar and bounced down near the goal line. The referee awarded the goal, but to this day, debates continue: Did the ball fully cross the line? Regardless, England secured their first and only World Cup title with this victory.
3. Italy vs. West Germany (1970) – “The Game of the Century”
- ???? Date: June 17, 1970
- ???? Stadium: Azteca, Mexico
- ⚽ Score: Italy 4-3 West Germany (after extra time)
This semi-final is often called “The Game of the Century” due to its intensity and drama. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match exploded in extra time, producing five goals in a thrilling back-and-forth battle. Gianni Rivera scored the winning goal in the 111th minute, sending Italy to the final. A commemorative plaque at the Azteca Stadium still honors this legendary match.
4. Brazil vs. Italy (1982) – “The Tragedy of Sarrià”
- ???? Date: July 5, 1982
- ???? Stadium: Sarrià, Barcelona
- ⚽ Score: Brazil 2-3 Italy
The 1982 Brazil squad, led by Zico, Socrates, and Falcão, was considered one of the most beautiful and entertaining teams in history. However, Italy, driven by a Paolo Rossi hat-trick, pulled off an upset, knocking out Brazil and paving the way for their World Cup triumph. This defeat is still remembered as a tragedy for Brazilian football.
5. Argentina vs. England (1986) – “The Hand of God” & “The Goal of the Century”
- ???? Date: June 22, 1986
- ???? Stadium: Azteca, Mexico
- ⚽ Score: Argentina 2-1 England
This quarter-final is a masterpiece by Diego Maradona. First, he scored one of the most controversial goals in history, using his hand to punch the ball into the net—later calling it “The Hand of God.”
Minutes later, he delivered “The Goal of the Century,” dribbling past six English players before scoring. This match perfectly encapsulates Maradona’s genius and controversy, defining his legacy.
6. France vs. Brazil (1998) – Zidane’s Moment of Glory
- ???? Date: July 12, 1998
- ???? Stadium: Stade de France, Paris
- ⚽ Score: France 3-0 Brazil
This final marked France’s first-ever World Cup triumph and the rise of Zinédine Zidane as a national hero. With two first-half headers from Zidane, France dominated the defending champions, humiliating Brazil and Ronaldo in one of the most one-sided finals in history.
7. Germany vs. Brazil (2014) – “The Mineirazo”
- ???? Date: July 8, 2014
- ???? Stadium: Mineirão, Belo Horizonte
- ⚽ Score: Brazil 1-7 Germany
This semi-final is the biggest shock in modern football history. Missing Neymar (injured) and Thiago Silva (suspended), Brazil collapsed, conceding five goals in the first 30 minutes. The 7-1 defeat remains Brazil’s worst-ever World Cup loss, forever known as “The Mineirazo.”
A Legacy of Unforgettable Matches
The World Cup has given us iconic moments, filled with emotion, drama, and historic achievements. Each tournament adds new legends to this incredible list.