For football fans around the world, Spain’s triumph in the 2026 FIFA World Cup was another reminder that every World Cup final has its own story. Some finals are comfortable victories, while others leave supporters biting their nails until the very last whistle. Looking back through history, a handful of World Cup finals stand out for their drama, quality, tension and unforgettable moments.
Here is a look back at some of the toughest FIFA World Cup finals ever played.
- Argentina 3 France 3 (Argentina won 4 to 2 on penalties) 2022
Many football lovers consider the 2022 final in Qatar to be the greatest World Cup final ever. Argentina looked to be cruising after first-half goals from Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria gave them a 2 nil lead.
Then came Kylian Mbappe. In just two minutes, he scored twice to drag France level and send the match into extra time. Messi restored Argentina’s advantage, only for Mbappe to complete his hat trick with another penalty.
After a thrilling 3 3 draw, Argentina finally lifted the trophy after winning the penalty shootout. It was a fitting ending to Messi’s remarkable international career.
- Spain 1 Argentina 0 (2026)
Spain’s latest triumph joins the list of memorable World Cup finals. Facing a determined Argentina side, Spain produced a disciplined display before securing a narrow 1 nil victory.
The match was not filled with goals, but it showcased tactical intelligence, defensive organisation and immense pressure. Every attack mattered, and every mistake could have changed history. Spain’s victory confirmed their return to the summit of world football after first lifting the trophy in 2010.
- Germany 1 Argentina 0 (After extra time) 2014
The final in Brazil was an intense tactical battle between two football giants. Argentina created several excellent chances, with Gonzalo Higuain missing one of the best opportunities of the match.
As penalties seemed inevitable, substitute Mario Gotze produced a moment of brilliance by controlling Andre Schurrle’s cross before volleying home in extra time. Germany became the first European nation to win a World Cup in South America.
- Italy 1 France 1 (Italy won 5 to 3 on penalties) 2006
This final is remembered as much for one shocking moment as for the football itself.
Zinedine Zidane gave France the lead with an audacious chipped penalty before Marco Materazzi equalised for Italy. Neither side could find a winner during extra time.
Then came the incident that stunned the world. Zidane headbutted Materazzi in the chest and was shown a red card in the final match of his legendary career. Italy went on to win the penalty shootout and claim their fourth World Cup title.
- Brazil 0 Italy 0 (Brazil won 3 to 2 on penalties) 1994
Played in the United States, this final was a tense defensive battle with few clear chances.
For the first time in World Cup history, the final was decided by penalties. Roberto Baggio, one of Italy’s greatest players, famously sent his spot kick over the crossbar, allowing Brazil to win their fourth World Cup.
Although it lacked goals, the pressure and drama made it unforgettable.
- England 4 West Germany 2 (After extra time) 1966
England’s only World Cup triumph remains one of the most famous finals ever played.
The match finished 2- 2 after 90 minutes before Geoff Hurst scored one of football’s most controversial goals when his shot struck the underside of the crossbar and bounced down near the goal line. The referee awarded the goal.
Hurst later completed his hat trick, making him the only player to score three goals in a men’s World Cup final.
- West Germany 3 Netherlands 2 (1974)
The Netherlands, inspired by Johan Cruyff and Total Football, took the lead from a penalty before a German player had even touched the ball.
However, West Germany responded through Paul Breitner and Gerd Muller to turn the game around. The final remains one of the greatest tactical contests in football history.
- Brazil 5 Sweden 2 (1958)
Although the scoreline appears comfortable, the occasion was enormous. A 17-year-old Pele announced himself to the world with two brilliant goals as Brazil claimed their first World Cup title.
The victory transformed Brazil into a football powerhouse and introduced one of the sport’s greatest players.