It's been quite a journey. 32 teams started out in Russia, vying for the most prestigious title in football (or soccer, as it's known in some parts of the world). After 64 intense games, we've finally arrived at the FIFA World Cup Finals.
This year's tournament has been nothing short of spectacular, with surprise exits, last-minute goals, and some truly unforgettable moments. Ahead of the biggest match of the year, we're taking a look back at some of the most iconic FIFA World Cup Finals moments over the years.
Which moment will you remember most?
2006, Italy vs France: Zinedine Zidane's Last Match
The 2006 FIFA World Cup Final is without a doubt one of the most iconic in history. The two teams that took to the field were Italy and France, led by star players Zinedine Zidane and Marco Materazzi.
It was a tense match, and it all came to a head in the last minutes when Zidane was given a red card for headbutting Materazzi. What made the moment even more iconic was that it was Zidane's last match before retiring from professional football.
Zidane's meltdown is still talked about today, and it's one of the most memorable moments in World Cup history.
1990, Germany vs Argentina: Andrés Escobar's Tragic Loss
It was the 1990 FIFA World Cup Finals, and Argentina was set to take on Germany. This match would go down in history as one of the most heartbreaking games ever played.
Defender Andrés Escobar had been a key player for Argentina throughout the tournament, but it was his own goal that ultimately led to his team's loss. In the 86th minute of the game, Escobar attempted to clear the ball from his box, but instead sent it into his own net, giving Germany the win.
Escobar returned home to a hero's welcome, but two weeks later he was shot dead by a group of men who accused him of costing Argentina the World Cup. His tragic death made headlines around the world and served as a stark reminder of the dangers of football fanaticism.
2002, Brazil vs Germany: Ronaldo 'El Fenomeno'
The 2002 World Cup was a momentous occasion, with iconic moments that will be forever etched in our memories. One of the most unforgettable moments was when Brazil played Germany in the finals. Ronaldo, aka "El Fenomeno", scored two goals against Germany and led Brazil to victory.
Ronaldo's story is one of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity. In 1997, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a debilitating knee injury that many believed would end his career. But he battled back and made a miraculous comeback, scoring goals for both Real Madrid and Brazil. His performance in the 2002 World Cup Finals is a testament to his strength and resilience.
His story is one that all football fans can appreciate and admire. When faced with difficult challenges, Ronaldo rose above them and became one of the most iconic players in FIFA World Cup history.
2010, Spain vs Netherlands: The Orange Show
The Netherlands gave Spain one of their toughest matches ever in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals. The Dutch, adorned in striking orange kits, were determined to take home their first ever World Cup and put up a fight that both teams can be proud of.
This match was an example of total football—the Netherlands' fast-paced passing attack versus Spain's tiki-taka style. And while Spain eventually won the match 1-0, the Dutch left an early mark on this decade of international football.
What sticks with us even now is just how orange everything was—the kits, the bench, and even the skies above Johannesburg as fireworks lit up the stadium in celebration. This match will go down as one of the best FIFA World Cup Finals moments – an unforgettable night when orange reigned supreme.
2014, Germany vs Argentina: Mario Götze's Golden Goal Moment
Relive the 2014 FIFA World Cup Finals, where Germany and Argentina battled it out for the coveted title. The match went into extra time, with both teams having had chances to score—all but one having been spectacularly saved by Argentina's Sergio Romero.
With just seven minutes to go in extra time, Mario Götze capitalized on an error from Argentine defender Martin Demichelis, receiving a perfect ball from Miroslav Klose and slotting it home in a moment that will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic FIFA World Cup Finals moments of all time. To the relief of German fans everywhere, Germany sealed their fourth World Cup victory with a 1-0 win over Argentina.
2018, France vs Croatia: Kylian Mbappé's Triple Threat
It’s France against Croatia in the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals. In a match that had all eyes glued to the action, Kylian Mbappé made everyone hold their breath by scoring three of the four goals for France. At only 19 years of age, Mbappé became the second-youngest player to ever score in the finals and probably cemented his name as one of the best footballers of all time.
The first was obviously an outstanding shot from outside of the box, and his second goal was even more incredible—a perfectly placed header that had goalkeeper Danijel Subašić rooted to his spot. But it was his third goal—a breakaway where he outran two players and slotted it past Subašić with ease—that showed glimpses of what lies ahead for Mbappé’s future on the pitch.
Mbappé’s triple threat not only clinched France's second title victory, but also set a new milestone that will be remembered for generations to come. It's definitely a moment worthy of celebration!
Comments
Post a Comment