Ranking the Most Memorable FIFA World Cup Finals
Top 10 FIFA World Cup Finals That Left a Mark
The FIFA World Cup has been held 22 times since its start in 1930 in Uruguay, with many finals becoming unforgettable moments in football history. The upcoming 23rd tournament will see Argentina and Spain clash in New Jersey for the title.
10. 1930: Uruguay 4 – 2 Argentina
The inaugural final at Montevideo's Estadio Centenario was a historic battle between two South American teams. Uruguay scored early, but Argentina took control before halftime. Yet Uruguay's second-half surge, capped by three goals, sealed their first World Cup win at home, starting the legacy of this global event.
9. 1970: Brazil 4 – 1 Italy
At Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, Brazil showcased one of the finest team displays in World Cup history. Pelé scored first, Italy equalized, but Brazil dominated the second half with goals from Gérson, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto, whose goal is often hailed as one of the best ever in a final.
8. 2010: Spain 1 – 0 Netherlands (aet)
This Johannesburg final was marked by intense physical play, with numerous yellow cards and a red for the Dutch. Both teams struggled offensively until Andrés Iniesta volleyed the winning goal in extra time, giving Spain their first World Cup trophy.
7. 1986: Argentina 3 – 2 West Germany
Held again at Estadio Azteca, Argentina took an early lead with goals from José Luis Brown and Jorge Valdano. Germany fought back with two late goals, but Jorge Burruchaga’s decisive strike in the 84th minute handed Argentina their second title.
6. 1966: England 4 – 2 West Germany (aet)
The first World Cup hosted in Britain ended at Wembley with England lifting the trophy. Despite Germany scoring first, England equalized and eventually won in extra time thanks to Geoff Hurst's two controversial goals, a match still debated today.
5. 2002: Brazil 2 – 0 Germany
In Yokohama, Brazil secured their fifth World Cup. Ronaldo ended his injury woes by scoring twice in the second half, confirming Brazil’s dominance and claiming his first World Cup title.
4. 2014: Germany 1 – 0 Argentina (aet)
At Rio's Maracanã Stadium, Mario Götze came off the bench to score a stunning volley in extra time, securing Germany’s fourth title. Lionel Messi had chances but couldn’t find the net.
3. 1950: Uruguay 2 – 1 Brazil
Brazil’s first time hosting brought a packed Maracanã expecting victory after Friaca’s goal. Uruguay responded with two late strikes, including Alcides Ghiggia’s famous winner, shocking the home crowd and capturing their second World Cup.
2. 2006: Italy 1 – 1 France (5–3 pens)
Berlin’s Olympiastadion hosted a tense final featuring an early Zidane penalty and Materazzi’s equalizer. Extra time drama included Zidane’s infamous headbutt leading to his sending off. Italy triumphed in the shootout, claiming their fourth title.
1. 2022: Argentina 3 – 3 France (4–2 pens)
The Lusail Iconic Stadium saw one of the wildest finals ever. Argentina led 2-0 before Mbappé’s hat-trick leveled the game. Messi scored again in extra time, but Mbappé completed his treble with a penalty. Argentina won on penalties, delivering a thrilling climax for football fans worldwide.
