Pinnacle Classic: Argentina vs. France (2022)
Two all-time greats will battle against each other in the 2022 final in Qatar: Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé, a fixture in the pantheon of history’s finest matches and one destined to be another sensational roller coaster. Messi had a two-goal lead over the French number seven, who fired in a breathtaking brace just 97 seconds into the encounter to equalize and force extra time. The score was 3-2 with just three minutes remaining, but the 23-year-old gave his team back a lead, only for Mbappé to cap off a stupendous hat trick, as the Argentines won the penalty shootout 4-2 thanks to Emiliano Martinez’s heroics.
Maradona Master Class: Argentina vs. West Germany (1986)
Arguably the finest ever demonstration of how brilliant Diego Maradona was in this monumental fixture: Argentina were already cruising after Brown and Valdano had fired them two goals ahead, but Germany were made of stern stuff and scored twice from set-pieces by Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Völler to equalize at 2-2; it was then, in the 86th minute, that Maradona assisted Burruchaga with what can only be described as an ‘out of this world’ through ball.
The Samba Perfection: Brazil v Italy (1970)
Less chaotic but far more perfect, this 1970 epic in Mexico City saw an attacking masterpiece from arguably the greatest international side ever assembled. Pel opened the scoring with a wonderful header that sent a message to the world. Boninsegna equalised for Italy, but Brazil’s superiority really came through in the second half. Gérson, Jairzinho and Carlos Alberto-finishing a famous team goal – sealed a comfortable 4-1 victory and permanent possession of the Jules Rimet trophy.
Source: FIFA Historical Match Archives, GiveMeSport & Striver Football Historical Rankings.
Leave a Reply