Most important goals in World Cup history

This goal stands as a testament to Diego Maradona's individual brilliance, showcasing unparalleled skill and determination on football's biggest stage. Its execution, dribbling past half the opposing team from his own half, makes it a masterpiece of technique and footballing vision.

This goal represents a pivotal moment in football history, catalyzing global discussions about fairness and the necessity of technology in officiating. Its controversial nature and impact on the match outcome make it a defining moment that transcended the sport.

This goal is a supreme example of collective footballing excellence, featuring a build-up involving almost the entire Brazilian team before the finish. It represents the culmination of 'jogo bonito' and a legendary team's victory in a World Cup final, cementing its legacy in sports history.

This goal is a landmark due to its decisive impact on the 1966 World Cup final, giving England a crucial lead in extra time. Its controversial nature has sparked a lasting debate about technology in football and refereeing decisions in high-pressure moments.

This goal was crucial in securing Italy's victory in the 1982 World Cup final, giving them a decisive 2-0 lead. Marco Tardelli's iconic celebration, filled with raw emotion, has been etched into collective memory, symbolizing the joy and passion of world football.

This goal was crucial for Brazil's trajectory in the 2002 World Cup, eliminating a strong contender like England in the quarter-finals. Furthermore, it marked the moment Ronaldinho became globally renowned, showcasing his unique skill and vision on a world stage.

This goal exemplifies individual brilliance on a high-pressure stage, opening the scoring in a World Cup semi-final. Its spectacular nature and the crucial timing of its occurrence make it a decisive milestone for the Netherlands' journey in the tournament.

This goal was a decisive moment that symbolized the beginning of the defending champions Spain's downfall in the 2014 World Cup. Its spectacular execution and impact on the opening match's outcome cemented it as an unforgettable milestone in tournament history.

This goal was the opening strike of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, a moment of great symbolism for the host nation, Germany. Its spectacular nature and immediate impact on the tournament's atmosphere make it a memorable milestone in World Cup history.

This goal stands as a testament to Pelé's genius at the tender age of 17, showcasing extraordinary skill and composure in a World Cup final. It was crucial in securing Brazil's first ever World Cup victory, a moment that changed football history and launched the career of a legend.

This goal was decisive in the 2006 FIFA World Cup semi-final, scoring the 2-0 in the final minute of extra time and securing Italy's passage to the final. Its dramatic timing and the importance of the context make it an unforgettable moment that changed the course of the tournament.

This goal is celebrated for its spectacular nature and the technique employed, a shot with astonishing swerve from an almost impossible angle that beat Dino Zoff. Its beauty and audacious execution have made it an unforgettable moment that continues to be admired by fans worldwide.