The five most memorable World Cup finals in history

19.07.26 AET World Cup

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Before the Spain vs. Argentina final scheduled for this Sunday, let's take a look back, in video, at the five finals that have left an indelible mark on the history of the World Cup.

1950 World Cup: Brazil vs. Uruguay (1-2)

This was the last match of the group-based system, a decisive showdown where Uruguay made history by triumphing at the Maracanã in front of 200,000 fans rooting for Brazil. Juan Schiaffino and Alcides Ghiggia found the net, handing La Celeste their second World Cup title after 1930.

1970 World Cup: Brazil vs. Italy (4-1)

This was a final between two-time World Cup champions at the time. It was Brazil who pulled off the historic treble, becoming the first nation to achieve the feat in tournament history.

The Seleção triumphed thanks to a goal from Pelé, two from Jairzinho and Gerson, and a masterpiece from Carlos Alberto after a sublime assist from Pelé.

1986 World Cup: Argentina vs. West Germany (3-2)

The 115,000 fans at the Azteca Stadium were treated to a thrilling final, with Argentina surging ahead by two goals before being pegged back within seven minutes by strikes from Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Rüdi Völler. Six minutes from time, a moment of brilliance from Diego Maradona sent Jorge Burruchaga through on goal, sealing a second World Cup crown for La Albiceleste.

1998 World Cup: Brazil vs. France (0-3)

Up against four-time champions Brazil, who were heavy favorites with stars like Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Cafu, Bebeto, and Roberto Carlos, France never flinched and delighted their home crowd with a commanding 3-0 victory, courtesy of a Zinedine Zidane brace and a late goal from Emmanuel Petit.

2022 World Cup: Argentina vs. France (3-3, 4-2 pens)

This final is widely regarded as the most spectacular of all time. Lionel Messi and his teammates led 2-0 with ten minutes to play, only for Kylian Mbappé to drag France level with a rapid-fire brace. Messi restored Argentina's advantage before Mbappé completed his hat-trick, forcing a penalty shootout that La Albiceleste would go on to win.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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