Defining Moments

Maradona “Hand of God”  & “Goal of the Century” (1986)

In the quarterfinal of the 1986 World Cup, Argentina faced off England. Diego Maradona, widely considered to be the best player at the time, scored a goal using his hand, but the referee did not catch it and allowed the goal. Minutes later, Maradona went on a mesmerizing solo run and scored another goal, helping defeat the English. This game lived in history as one of the most famous and controversial matches ever played.

Zidane Headbutt (2006)

In the final of the 2006 World Cup, French midfielder Zinedine Zidane, one of the best players of all time, had an altercation with one of the opposing Italian players. The Italian player apparently said something which offended Zidane, who turned around and headbutted (yes, headbutted) the Italian to the ground. Zidane received a red card for his actions and was sent out of the game, which the French eventually lost in penalties.

Brazil’s Humiliation (2014)

In the semi-final of the 2014 World Cup, the favorites Brazil faced Germany. Germany was a strong side, and Brazil, with its rich soccer history, was considered to be the best, so viewers anticipated an intense and competitive match. It soon became apparent that this would not be the case. Germany slotted goal after goal, and ended up defeating the Brazilians 7-1. This route of Brazil was nothing short of a humiliation ritual for a nation which is almost synonymous with soccer.

Ronaldo and Messi Rivalry (2003-2022)

While not a specific game, this section would be amiss with no mention of the greatest rivalry in soccer history, potentially even in sports history. Cristiano Ronaldo, a flashy Portuguese player, burst onto the scene in 2003 f0r English team Manchester United. At a similar time, a small Argentine named Lionel Messi began playing for the Barcelona first team. These two players soon became acknowledged as amazing talents. It was not until 2009, when Ronaldo made his move to Barcelona’s arch rivals Real Madrid that the rivalry began in full force. For years these two players shared the stage as being the undebated best in the world.

References:

https://www.iphotography.com/blog/7-iconic-moments-in-world-soccer/