The Top 10 Most Memorable FIFA World Cup Finals
Since the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930 hosted by Uruguay, 22 tournaments have been played, many of which etched their place in football lore. The 23rd tournament will conclude soon with Argentina facing Spain in New Jersey for the trophy.
Here is a ranking of the ten most remarkable FIFA World Cup finals, arranged from the least to the most intense encounters.
10. 1930: Uruguay 4 – 2 Argentina
The first-ever final took place at Montevideo’s Estadio Centenario, marking the birth of football's premier international contest. It was also the first final featuring two South American sides.
Uruguay started strong with Pablo Dorado scoring early. Argentina then turned the tide before halftime with goals from Carlos Peucelle and Guillermo Stábile. But Uruguay dominated the second half, rallying back with goals by Pedro Cea, Santos Iriarte, and Héctor Castro to claim the first World Cup on home soil.
9. 1970: Brazil 4 – 1 Italy
Held at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, this final showcased a high-scoring battle. Brazil controlled the match with Pelé opening the scoring. Roberto Boninsegna equalized for Italy just before halftime, but Brazil’s second-half surge produced goals from Gérson, Jairzinho, and a legendary strike by Carlos Alberto, sealing one of the greatest team performances ever.
8. 2010: Spain 1 – 0 Netherlands (aet)
At Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium, this final was marked by fierce competition and intense fouling, leading to 14 yellow cards and one red, mostly against the Dutch. Both teams failed to score during regular time until Andrés Iniesta netted a late volley in extra time, delivering Spain their first World Cup title.
7. 1986: Argentina 3 – 2 West Germany
Also at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, this final was packed with drama. José Luis Brown put Argentina ahead early, and Jorge Valdano extended the lead after halftime. West Germany fought back with goals from Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Völler, but Jorge Burruchaga’s goal in the 84th minute clinched Argentina’s second title.
6. 1966: England 4 – 2 West Germany (aet)
This final, hosted at London’s Wembley Stadium, was England’s first and only World Cup win on home turf. West Germany scored first, but Geoff Hurst equalized before halftime. In extra time, Martin Peters gave England the lead, Germany equalized, but Hurst’s two more goals secured victory amid ongoing debate about the legitimacy of one of his goals.
5. 2002: Brazil 2 – 0 Germany
Played in Yokohama, Japan, this final saw Brazil earn their fifth World Cup. Ronaldo scored twice, redeeming himself after missing the 1998 final due to injury, leading his nation to glory with two decisive strikes late in the match.
4. 2014: Germany 1 – 0 Argentina (aet)
At Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium, this tightly contested final was decided in extra time when substitute Mario Götze volleyed in a cross from André Schürrle. Lionel Messi had chances for Argentina, but Germany secured their fourth World Cup with this solitary goal.
3. 1950: Uruguay 2 – 1 Brazil
Brazil hosted the World Cup for the first time at the Maracanã Stadium. After Friaca scored for Brazil early in the second half, the massive home crowd believed victory was near. But Uruguay struck back with Juan Alberto Schiaffino’s equalizer and Alcides Ghiggia’s late winner, pulling off one of football’s greatest upsets.
2. 2006: Italy 1 – 1 France (5-3 pens)
In Berlin’s Olympiastadion, this final became infamous for its tension and controversy. Zinedine Zidane opened scoring from a penalty for France, with Marco Materazzi equalizing for Italy. The match stayed tight, but Zidane’s headbutt on Materazzi in extra time led to his red card in his final professional game. Italy triumphed 5–3 in the penalty shootout, earning their fourth World Cup.
1. 2022: Argentina 3 – 3 France (4-2 pens)
At Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar, this final unfolded with breathtaking drama. Lionel Messi aimed for his first World Cup as Argentina built a 2–0 lead. Kylian Mbappé then sparked an incredible French comeback with a hat-trick. Messi scored again in extra time, but Mbappé’s penalty leveled the score, pushing the match to penalties. Argentina won 4-3, delivering a final that many call the best ever.
