The Most Memorable FIFA World Cup Finals Ever Played

The Top 10 FIFA World Cup Finals That Stood Out

Since the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930 hosted by Uruguay, the tournament has been home to some of football's most unforgettable moments. Across 22 editions, certain finals have etched themselves into history for their drama and skill.

The 23rd edition will conclude with a clash between Argentina and Spain in New Jersey, but let’s take a look back at ten of the most compelling World Cup finals, ranked from least to most thrilling.

10. 1930: Uruguay 4 – 2 Argentina

The very first World Cup final took place at Montevideo’s Estadio Centenario. It was the first meeting of two South American teams in a final and a fiercely fought battle. Uruguay struck early through Pablo Dorado, but Argentina came back before halftime with goals by Carlos Peucelle and Guillermo Stábile.

Argentina seemed in control until Uruguay staged a powerful second-half comeback. Pedro Cea, Santos Iriarte, and Héctor Castro scored, handing Uruguay the trophy on home ground and starting the tradition of football’s greatest international competition.

9. 1970: Brazil 4 – 1 Italy

Held at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, this final is remembered for its exciting attacking play. Pelé opened the scoring with a header, but Italy equalized just before the break thanks to Roberto Boninsegna.

Brazil then dominated the second half with goals from Gérson, Jairzinho, and the iconic Carlos Alberto, whose goal remains one of the finest in World Cup history. This match showcased Brazil’s legendary team performance.

8. 2010: Spain 1 – 0 Netherlands (after extra time)

The final in Johannesburg’s Soccer City was a tense and rough contest. Referees issued 14 yellow cards and one red, mostly against the Netherlands. Both sides struggled to find a goal during regular time.

Andrés Iniesta finally scored late in extra time, volleying home a pass from Cesc Fàbregas, delivering Spain their first-ever World Cup title.

7. 1986: Argentina 3 – 2 West Germany

This thrilling final at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca was packed with twists. José Luis Brown gave Argentina an early lead, doubled by Jorge Valdano after halftime. West Germany responded with two late goals from Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Völler.

Just as extra time seemed likely, Jorge Burruchaga netted the winner in the 84th minute, securing Argentina’s second World Cup triumph.

6. 1966: England 4 – 2 West Germany (after extra time)

The only World Cup final held in England, this match at Wembley Stadium is still debated today. West Germany scored first through Helmut Haller, but England equalized via Geoff Hurst.

Martin Peters put England ahead in extra time before Germany’s Wolfgang Weber leveled again. Hurst’s two late goals sealed victory for England, though one of those goals remains controversial.

5. 2002: Brazil 2 – 0 Germany

At the International Stadium in Yokohama, Brazil claimed their fifth World Cup title. Ronaldo, who missed the 1998 final due to injury, scored both goals after 67 minutes to lead his team to glory.

This win made Brazil the only nation with five World Cup trophies.

4. 2014: Germany 1 – 0 Argentina (after extra time)

The Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro hosted this closely fought final. Mario Götze, a substitute, scored the winning volley in extra time off André Schürrle’s cross.

Lionel Messi threatened several times but couldn’t break through. Germany celebrated their fourth World Cup championship.

3. 1950: Uruguay 2 – 1 Brazil

Brazil hosted the World Cup for the first time, with the decisive match played at the Maracanã. Brazil’s Friaca scored early in the second half, sending 200,000 fans into celebration, as a draw would have crowned them champions.

Uruguay rallied with Juan Alberto Schiaffino leveling the score. Alcides Ghiggia then stunned the crowd with a late winner, giving Uruguay their second title in a massive upset.

2. 2006: Italy 1 – 1 France (Italy won 5–3 on penalties)

Berlin’s Olympiastadion saw a final full of tension and controversy. Zinedine Zidane opened scoring with a penalty, but Marco Materazzi quickly equalized for Italy.

The match was tight, with few chances and no further goals. Zidane’s infamous headbutt on Materazzi during extra time led to his sending off in his final professional game. Italy triumphed in the shootout, claiming their fourth World Cup.

1. 2022: Argentina 3 – 3 France (Argentina won 4–2 on penalties)

The Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar hosted a final filled with drama. Lionel Messi sought his first World Cup title while Kylian Mbappé starred for France.

Argentina led 2–0, but Mbappé’s hat-trick brought France back. Messi scored again in extra time, only for Mbappé to equalize from the penalty spot, forcing a shootout. Argentina prevailed 4-3 on penalties in what many consider one of the greatest finals ever.