Editor’s Note: Originally published on December 19, 2022.
Was the 2022 FIFA World Cup final the most remarkable match in the tournament’s history?
With numerous equalizing goals, a superstar’s hat trick, and the ongoing debate about the greatest players, it certainly made a case.
However, history has seen many classic finals. Here’s a look back at the top five matches from the men’s World Cup finals:
5. 1970: Brazil 4, Italy 1 in Mexico
Though this match had the lowest score of the top five, its significance in World Cup history makes it unforgettable.
- It marked the first meeting of two previous champions in a World Cup final.
- It was Pele’s final World Cup match, making him the only player to secure three World Cup wins to date.
- Mario Zagallo became the first person to win the World Cup both as a player and coach.
This match solidified Brazil’s status as the most successful national team with three World Cup titles.
Pele’s last World Cup match ended with his third trophy. (Photo: Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
4. 1954: West Germany 3, Hungary 2 in Switzerland
Known as the “Miracle of Bern,” this match is one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, with Hungary heavily favored to win.
This final remains Germany’s first World Cup title, where the team made an incredible comeback from a two-goal deficit.
Hungary took an early lead, scoring twice in the first eight minutes, but West Germany turned the tables in the 84th minute for a legendary victory.
West Germany’s unforgettable comeback led them to their first World Cup victory. (Photo by SG/PA image via Getty Images)
3. 1966: England 4, West Germany 2 (AET) in the UK
Legendary for its “Phantom Goal,” this match awarded England its first and only World Cup title.
The final, held at the historic Wembley Stadium, kicked off with a fast-paced match, with goals coming within the first 20 minutes.
Following West Germany’s equalizer, England secured victory with two additional goals in extra time, with Jeff Hurst becoming the first player to score a hat trick in a World Cup final.
It was a thrilling performance that echoed throughout the nation.
Wembley’s goal: No. 7 | Most memorable moments in World Cup history
2. 1950: Uruguay 2, Brazil 1 in Brazil
Taking place in Rio de Janeiro’s iconic stadium, this match is famously known as the “Maracanazo,” representing a stunning upset.
Technically, this was not a traditional final but rather the deciding match in the final group stage. Uruguay needed to beat Brazil to secure the championship.
After trailing 1-0 in the second half, Uruguay scored twice in quick succession to claim a 2-1 victory and their second title.
1. 2022: Argentina 3, France 3 (AET, Argentina wins 4-2 on penalties)
This match is undeniably the most iconic World Cup final ever, packed with thrilling narratives and drama.
- Would Messi secure his first title in what might be his last World Cup?
- Could France become the first back-to-back champions in 60 years?
- And the ongoing battle for the Golden Boot between Kylian Mbappé and Messi added more excitement.
Argentina started strong, going up 2-0, but Mbappé quickly leveled the score with a penalty and a subsequent goal.
Extra time saw Mbappé score another penalty, achieving a hat trick, making him the second player in World Cup final history to do so, while Messi added a goal, making it feel like a cinematic moment. The match ultimately culminated in a penalty shootout, where both stars scored, and Argentina claimed victory.
This victory likely allowed Messi to realize his dream of winning a World Cup title.
Argentina vs. France: Highlights from the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final
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Fan Take: The excitement and drama witnessed in the World Cup finals not only capture the hearts of fans but also shape the narrative of soccer history, enhancing the sport’s legacy. As the stakes continue to rise, these moments remind us of why we love the beautiful game, fueling anticipation for future tournaments.
