Ranking the Top 10 Matches from an Unforgettable World Cup

This summer's World Cup has delivered so many thrilling moments and last-minute twists that picking a single standout match feels nearly impossible. We've gathered the ten most remarkable games ahead of Sunday's eagerly awaited final between Spain and Argentina.

10. Paraguay 1, Germany 1 (4-3 on penalties) | Round of 32, June 29

Paraguay stunned the football world by holding a dominant Germany to a 1-1 draw after extra time and then outlasting them in a tense penalty shootout. The South American side's tight defensive block and selective counterattacks frustrated Germany, who controlled possession but couldn't break through. A late goal by Jonathan Tah for Germany was ruled out by VAR for a foul, sending the game to penalties where goalkeeper Orlando Gill made key saves.

9. Morocco 1, Netherlands 1 (3-2 on penalties) | Round of 32, June 29

Morocco and the Netherlands faced off early in knockout stages, producing a match worthy of a quarterfinal. Cody Gakpo gave the Dutch the lead late, visibly emotional due to personal tragedy. Morocco answered with a stoppage-time equalizer, forcing extra time. Despite many missed shots in the shootout, Morocco held their nerve to advance.

8. Spain 2, France 0 | Semifinals, July 14

Spain defied expectations by controlling the game against a talented France. Their possession-based approach stifled stars like Mbappe and Dembele, keeping France without a shot on goal until late. This win marks Spain’s continued dominance over France in major tournaments, delivering a tough defeat on the biggest stage.

7. Cape Verde 0, Spain 0 | Group Stage, June 15

Making their World Cup debut, Cape Verde shocked everyone by holding reigning European champions Spain to a goalless draw. Despite Spain firing 27 shots, none could get past the inspired veteran goalkeeper Vozinha. This result became the proudest moment in Cape Verde's sporting history.

6. Belgium 3, Senegal 2 | Round of 32, July 1

Belgium's comeback from two goals down late in regulation ranks among the most dramatic of the tournament. Romelu Lukaku began the rally, Youri Tielemans equalized, and finally, Tielemans scored the decisive penalty after a lengthy VAR review in extra time. Senegal’s collapse echoed struggles African teams faced in holding leads this World Cup.

5. Argentina 2, England 1 | Semifinals, July 15

England coach Thomas Tuchel's defensive shift late in the game blunted his team's attack and invited relentless pressure from Argentina. Lionel Messi set up both late goals—the equalizer and the stoppage-time winner—that showcased Argentina's calm under pressure and left England with a heartbreaking loss.

4. Portugal 2, Croatia 1 | Round of 32, July 2

What should have been a farewell to legends Luka Modric and Cristiano Ronaldo turned into a dramatic match. In stoppage time, Croatia thought they had equalized, only for VAR to rule it out due to a barely perceptible offside touched by a teammate. It ended Portugal’s victory but left a sour taste despite an unforgettable finish.

3. Argentina 3, Egypt 2 | Round of 16, July 7

Argentina's comeback from 2-0 down epitomized their resilience. Messi sparked the turnaround with a precise assist and a crucial goal, capped by Enzo Fernandez's stoppage-time header. Controversial refereeing decisions left Egypt feeling robbed, with disallowed goals and denied penalty appeals adding to their frustration.

2. England 3, Mexico 2 | Round of 16, July 5

England's victory at the intimidating Estadio Azteca came despite being a man down. Jude Bellingham scored twice quickly, Harry Kane added a penalty, and the team held firm amid heavy Mexican pressure. The crowd chanted "Football’s coming home," but England still have to wait for that dream to materialize.

1. Argentina 3, Cape Verde 2 | Round of 32, July 3

Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut and one of the smallest nations ever to compete, pushed reigning champions Argentina to the brink. Twice Argentina led, twice Cape Verde leveled, including a stunning curling strike by Sidny Lopes Cabral. Though Argentina eventually won in extra time, Cape Verde earned worldwide admiration for their fearless fight.