The Ultimate Showdowns: What Makes a World Cup Final Great?

When it comes to World Cup finals, some matches stand out far above the rest. Think of Pele leading Brazil to victory in 1970, Lionel Messi lifting the trophy for the first time, or England celebrating on home soil in 1966. These games gave us unforgettable moments, and we’re here to compare them.

Pele and Brazil’s 1970 Masterpiece

The 1970 final in Mexico City is often seen as the gold standard. Pele scored the opening goal, and Brazil played beautiful, attacking soccer against Italy. The team’s fourth goal, a team effort capped by Carlos Alberto, is still studied today.

• Pele’s header set the tone early.
• Brazil won 4-1, proving they were the best team in the world.
• The style of play was pure joy, making it a fan favorite for decades.

Messi’s First World Cup and England’s Home Victory

Fast forward to 2022, when Lionel Messi finally won the World Cup with Argentina. The match against France was a wild ride, with goals from Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and a dramatic penalty shootout. It was Messi’s crowning moment.

Meanwhile, England’s 1966 final against West Germany had everything: a controversial goal, a hat-trick from Geoff Hurst, and the famous “They think it’s all over” moment. It ended 4-2 after extra time, giving England their only title so far.

• Messi’s final was high-scoring and tense, ending 3-3 before penalties.
• England’s 1966 win is a national treasure, but the game had its controversies.

Which Final Takes the Top Spot?

Ranking the best finals is tough because each one has a unique story. For pure quality, the 1970 Brazil team stands alone. For drama, the 2022 final is hard to beat. And for history and emotion, England’s 1966 victory is legendary. In the end, the best final might just be the one that made you cheer the loudest.