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West Germany vs. France (1982 World Cup Semi-Final)

Sports event

About

The 1982 World Cup semi-final between West Germany and France, known as the "Night of Seville," was a historic match that took place on July 8, 1982, at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium in Seville, Spain. The match is renowned for its dramatic and intense nature, featuring six goals and a first-ever World Cup penalty shootout. West Germany scored through Pierre Littbarski, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, and Klaus Fischer, while France responded with goals from Michel Platini, Marius Trésor, and Alain Giresse. The match was marked by controversy, particularly the infamous collision between West German goalkeeper Harald Schumacher and French player Patrick Battiston, which left Battiston unconscious and injured. Despite France's initial lead in extra time, West Germany equalized, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. West Germany ultimately won 5-4 on penalties, advancing to the final against Italy. This match is remembered as one of the greatest in World Cup history due to its dramatic comeback, skillful play, and the historic penalty shootout.