We’ve put together a collection of photos that show the most iconic moments in World Cup history. Whether they were for better or worse, these memorable moments will forever influence the game of soccer for players, coaches, and fans.
It seems like just yesterday that France won the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but we’ve already started qualifying matches for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. There have already been 21 World Cup tournaments, and it remains the world’s most-watched sporting event as over half the global population tuned in for the latest tournament.
During the 21 World Cups, there have been more than 800 matches, and all of that time on the pitch has produced some awe-inspiring moments. Unbelievable goals, shocking upsets and unthinkable acts on the pitch have made the World Cup a topic of conversation even during the four years in between each.
We will look back at those moments that were memorable in either a good or bad way. After all, fame and infamy go hand-in-hand when it comes to being remembered, and these are the top 25 moments in World Cup history.
The FIFA World Cup is the biggest event in football. First held in 1930, the tournament has produced iconic moments that have stood the test of time and remain etched in our minds. From Pele announcing himself on the world stage as a teenager to Maradona’s infamous ‘Hand of God’, here are the top 10 moments in the World Cup over the years.
5. Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ against England (1986 World Cup)
Diego Maradona, for Argentina, was the definition of ‘clutch’ in the 1986 World Cup. With five goals and the same number of assists, he guided the La Albiceleste almost single-handedly to the trophy. However, his infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal against England in the quarterfinal match remains one of the most iconic yet debatable moments.
Early in the second-half of the match, Maradona passed the ball to teammate Jorge Valdano. Valdano tried to take on the English defenders but lost possession.
4. Zidane headbutts Materazzi (2006 World Cup final)
Zinedine Zidane is undoubtedly one of the finest players to grace the game. However, the last match of his playing career was far from perfect as his headbutt to Italy’s Marco Materazzi led to him seeing a red card.
It was the 2006 World Cup final between France and Italy. It was 1-1 after Zidane and Materazzi had scored for their respective teams. Ninety minutes of football could not separate the two teams and the match went into extra-time.
3. The world sees the Cruyff turn (1974 World Cup)
Johan Cruyff is one of the most talented footballers to grace the game of football. A talented dribbler, he was known for his flair and the natural talent he displayed on the field. He was part of the Netherlands team that pioneered the concept of ‘Total Football’.
Cruyff could not win a World Cup throughout his career but it was in a World Cup that Cryuff produced one of football’s most iconic moments.
2. Cameroon shocks Argentina (1990 World Cup)
Led by Diego Maradona, Argentina started the 1990 World Cup in Italy as defending champion. Maradona had etched himself in the history books after a monumental campaign in 1986 that saw his team lift the title, so expectations were high.
It was a Group B match between Argentina and Cameroon with the former starting as heavy favourites. What was supposed to be an easy day at the office for Argentina, turned out to be one of the World Cup’s biggest upsets as Cameroon beat the defending champion 1-0.
1. Suarez sees red but has the last laugh (2010 World Cup)
The 2010 World Cup quarterfinal match between Uruguay and Ghana was the perfect example of late drama and controversy in football matches.
Ghana was the only remaining African team in the competition at the stage. With South Africa hosting the tournament, Ghana was receiving massive support throughout the continent and had massive home support.