Top 6 Greatest FIFA World Cup Final Matches in History
The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France is regarded as one of the greatest finals in football history, fulfilling Lionel Messi’s dream of winning the World Cup. In 1970, Brazil defeated Italy to become the first nation to win the World Cup three times, securing the Jules Rimet Trophy permanently under Pelé’s leadership. In 1986, Argentina, captained by Diego Maradona, defeated West Germany to claim their second World Cup title, cementing Maradona’s status as one of football’s all-time greats.
2nd of Shrawan, Kathmandu. The World Cup finals are not just about winning the trophy but represent pivotal moments in football history. Some finals have shifted the course of the sport itself. Legendary players have immortalized their legacies in certain finals, while others witnessed improbable comebacks that made history. Controversial goals sparked debates for decades, and penalty shootouts moved millions of fans emotionally. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, let us review the most memorable finals in history.
2022: Argentina 3-3 France (4-2 on penalties)
Football analysts and FIFA consider this the greatest final ever. Lionel Messi finally realized his dream of winning the World Cup, while Kylian Mbappé became only the second player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. France came back from a 2-0 deficit at 80 minutes to equalize within two minutes. In extra time, both Messi and Mbappé scored, sending the match to penalties. Gonzalo Montiel scored the decisive penalty, securing Argentina’s first World Cup title in 36 years. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez saved a penalty. This was the first World Cup final in history where both teams scored in extra time.
1970: Brazil 4-1 Italy
Many regard this Brazilian team as the greatest football team ever. Both Brazil and Italy had already won twice each. By winning the final in Mexico City, Brazil became the first nation to win three World Cups, permanently securing the Jules Rimet Trophy. Goals came from Pelé, Jairzinho, Gérson, and Carlos Alberto. Carlos Alberto’s goal is particularly celebrated as one of the best team goals in football history.
1986: Argentina 3-2 West Germany
Under Diego Maradona’s captaincy, Argentina won their second World Cup. Though they were leading 2-0, West Germany equalized with two quick goals. In extra time, Jorge Burruchaga scored the winning goal, assisted by Maradona’s brilliant pass. Maradona didn’t score in the final but showcased his control over the game throughout the tournament, earning his place among world football’s greatest players.
1966: England 4-2 West Germany (after extra time)
England’s only World Cup final victory to date. After a 2-2 draw in 90 minutes at Wembley, Jeff Hurst scored twice in extra time, becoming the first and only player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. His second goal, which crossed the goal line controversially, remains one of world football’s most debated moments.
1954: West Germany 3-2 Hungary
Known as the “Miracle of Bern.” Hungary had been unbeaten for 31 matches and had defeated West Germany 8-3 in the group stage. In the final, Hungary quickly took a 2-0 lead within eight minutes, but West Germany mounted an incredible comeback to win 3-2. This victory marked the beginning of a new era for German football and stands as one of the greatest comebacks in world football history.
2014: Germany 1-0 Argentina (after extra time)
The 2014 World Cup final in Brazil was highly strategic and fiercely competitive. After a goalless 90 minutes, extra time decided the match. In the 113th minute, substitute Mario Götze expertly controlled André Schürrle’s cross and scored the winning goal, giving Germany its fourth World Cup title. It was the first time a European team won the World Cup on South American soil.
What’s next? The final between Argentina and Spain underway this Monday morning is poised to become historic. Argentina aims to win consecutive World Cups for the second time, while Spain seeks to reclaim the title after 16 years. The potential final appearance of 39-year-old Lionel Messi in his likely last World Cup, emerging talents like Laimn Yamal, and a clash of contrasting football philosophies all contribute to the strong possibility that this final will also be remembered among the greatest in World Cup history.