Join Jeff Powell on a journey through 12 World Cup finals, from England's triumph in 1966 to Germany's victory in 2014, with exclusive insights and memorable stories.
In just six weeks, the world will witness the conclusion of the 23rd World Cup final. For Jeff Powell MBEthis event marks another chapter in a remarkable journey that began on July 30, 1966with England’s historic victory at Wembley.
Over the years, Powell has attended 12 of these prestigious finals, spanning four continents and witnessing some of the most iconic moments in football history.
From the thrilling goals to the dramatic extra time periods and decisive penalty shootouts, Powell’s experiences offer a unique perspective on the greatest show on Earth.
Here, he shares his definitive ranking of these 12 finals, complete with riotous tales and unforgettable anecdotes.
The 1990 Final: A Cynical yet Historic Victory
The 1990 World Cup final in Rome’s Olympic Stadium was a cynical and distasteful affair, but it will forever be remembered for Franz Beckenbauer’s historic achievement.
Diego Maradonaplaying through severe injuries, led Argentina to the final but was ultimately outplayed by a resilient West German team. Andreas Brehme‘s 85th-minute penalty secured Germany’s victory, making Beckenbauer the first to win the World Cup as both a captain and a manager.
The 1994 Final: A Goalless Classic
The 1994 World Cup final in Pasadena’s Rose Bowl was the first and only final to end goalless after extra time. Brazil emerged victorious in a penalty shootout, with Romario playing a crucial role. This final was also notable for Powell’s exclusive reporting on Maradona’s failed drugs test, which led to his expulsion from the tournament.
The 2014 Final: A Historic European Victory
In the 2014 World Cup final at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana, Germany became the first European team to lift the World Cup in the Americas. Mario Gotze‘s extra-time goal secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina, marking a significant moment in football history. Powell reflects on the significance of this victory and the iconic photograph of Lionel Messi gazing at the trophy he was denied.
The 1998 Final: A Mysterious and Dramatic Showdown
The 1998 World Cup final in Paris was billed as a heavyweight title fight between Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane. However, Ronaldo’s mysterious seizure before the match added a dramatic twist. Zidane shone with two headed goals, leading France to a 3-0 victory. This final was also notable for its political significance, with the multi-racial French team being acclaimed for their victory over the far right.
The 2006 Final: Zidane’s Controversial Farewell
The 2006 World Cup final in Berlin was a dramatic affair, featuring Zidane at his best and worst. After scoring a penalty, Zidane was sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi in extra time. Italy went on to win the penalty shootout, marking the end of Zidane’s illustrious career in controversial fashion.
The 1982 Final: Bearzot’s Revenge
The 1982 World Cup final in Madrid saw Enzo Bearzot lead Italy to victory against all odds. After being vilified during the group stages, Bearzot’s attacking philosophy paid off, with Paolo Rossi scoring the opening goal. Italy’s 3-1 victory was a testament to Bearzot’s strategic brilliance and Rossi’s redemption.
The 1986 Final: Maradona’s Triumph
The 1986 World Cup final in Mexico City was a showcase of Maradona’s genius. Despite being stifled by Lothar MatthausMaradona set up the winning goal for Jorge Burruchagasecuring Argentina’s second World Cup in three tournaments. This final will forever be remembered for Maradona’s iconic performances throughout the tournament.
The 2002 Final: Ronaldo’s Redemption
The 2002 World Cup final in Yokohama saw Ronaldo confirm his status as El Fenomeno. Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Germany was a testament to Ronaldo’s two-goal flourish and Brazil’s continued dominance as the only five-time world champions.
The 1974 Final: Total Football’s Near Miss
The 1974 World Cup final in Munich was supposed to be the coronation of Total Footballled by Johan Cruyff and managed by Rinus Michels. However, West Germany’s resilience and Gerd Muller‘s winning goal secured a 3-1 victory. This final will forever be remembered for Cruyff’s brilliance and Muller’s iconic goal.
The 1978 Final: An Epic in Buenos Aires
The 1978 World Cup final in Buenos Aires was an epic affair, marked by Argentina’s desperate desire to join South America’s pantheon of world champions. Mario Kempes scored two goals in extra time, leading Argentina to a 3-1 victory over the Netherlands. This final was also notable for its unprecedented patriotic fervour and the joyful celebrations that followed.
The 1970 Final: The Greatest Team Ever
The 1970 World Cup final in Mexico City was the crowning of the greatest team ever to take the field. Brazil’s 4-1 victory over Italy was a masterclass in football, with Pele orchestrating a dazzling nine-man move that led to the most exquisite assist and goal in World Cup history.
The 1966 Final: England’s Historic Triumph
The 1966 World Cup final at Wembley Stadium was England’s historic triumph. A 4-2 victory over West Germany in extra time marked the pinnacle of English football. This final will forever be remembered as the moment when England became world champions.
