Ranking the Top 10 FIFA World Cup Finals Ever Played

Since the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930 held in Uruguay, 22 tournaments have been played, many of which have left a lasting mark on football history. The 23rd edition will conclude with a clash between Argentina and Spain in New Jersey, promising another memorable chapter.

Here is a list of the ten most remarkable FIFA World Cup finals, ranked from less to more intense moments.

10. 1930: Uruguay 4 – 2 Argentina

The very first World Cup final took place at Montevideo’s Estadio Centenario, featuring two South American giants. Uruguay scored first early on, but Argentina struck twice before halftime. The hosts then dominated the second half, scoring three more goals to secure the inaugural title at home.

9. 1970: Brazil 4 – 1 Italy

This final at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca showcased Brazil’s brilliance. Pelé opened the scoring, Italy equalized before halftime, yet Brazil surged ahead in the second half with three more goals, including Carlos Alberto’s famous strike, sealing one of the finest team performances ever.

8. 2010: Spain 1 – 0 Netherlands (aet)

Played at Johannesburg’s Soccer City, this intense final saw many fouls and cards, especially against the Netherlands. Despite no goals during regular time, Andrés Iniesta scored in extra time to bring Spain their first-ever World Cup trophy.

7. 1986: Argentina 3 – 2 West Germany

At the Estadio Azteca, Argentina led twice, but West Germany fought back to level the score. Jorge Burruchaga’s late goal in the 84th minute decided the match, giving Argentina their second World Cup win.

6. 1966: England 4 – 2 West Germany (a.e.t)

Hosted by England at Wembley, the match featured early goals, an equalizer in extra time, and a controversial hat-trick from Geoff Hurst. England lifted their first and only World Cup trophy on home soil after a dramatic battle.

5. 2002: Brazil 2 – 0 Germany

In Yokohama, Japan, Brazil claimed their fifth title. Ronaldo, who missed the 1998 final due to injury, scored both goals in the second half, redeeming himself and leading Brazil to victory.

4. 2014: Germany 1 – 0 Argentina (a.e.t)

Held at Rio’s Maracanã Stadium, this tight contest was settled in extra time when Mario Götze volleyed home a cross. Lionel Messi had chances but couldn’t score, as Germany secured their fourth World Cup.

3. 1950: Uruguay 2 – 1 Brazil

Brazil hosted for the first time at the Maracanã Stadium. After taking the lead, the home crowd celebrated wildly, needing just a draw. Yet Uruguay staged a stunning comeback with two late goals, handing Brazil a crushing defeat in one of football’s biggest shocks.

2. 2006: Italy 1 – 1 France (5-3 pens)

In Berlin’s Olympiastadion, Zinedine Zidane scored an early penalty, but Italy equalized soon after. The match stayed tense and quiet until Zidane’s infamous headbutt in extra time led to his dismissal. Italy won on penalties, claiming their fourth World Cup.

1. 2022: Argentina 3 – 3 France (4-2 pens)

At Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar, this final delivered unforgettable drama. Argentina led 2-0, only for Kylian Mbappé to score a hat-trick and force extra time. Both teams traded goals before Argentina triumphed in the shootout, with Messi finally securing his long-awaited World Cup win.