Top 10 Most Memorable World Cup Moments

What is considered the greatest World Cup moment of all time? Most football historians point to Diego Maradona's Goal of the Century in the 1986 quarter-final against England — a 60-metre solo dribble past five outfield players — as the single greatest World Cup moment ever captured on film.

Which World Cup final is the most memorable? The 2022 final between Argentina and France is widely regarded as the greatest in tournament history: Kylian Mbappé scored a second-half hat-trick to level at 3-3, yet Lionel Messi lifted the trophy after a penalty shootout in a match that had 88,000 fans in Lusail barely breathing.

What was the biggest upset in World Cup history? Senegal's 1-0 victory over defending champions France in the 2002 group stage and Germany's 7-1 demolition of host nation Brazil in the 2014 semi-final are the two moments most often cited as the tournament's most shocking results.

What counts as a 'memorable' World Cup moment?

Any single play, match, celebration, or result that fans still talk about decades later — goals, upsets, controversies, and trophy lifts all qualify.

Why is Maradona's 1986 goal called the 'Goal of the Century'?

FIFA officially named it the best goal of the 20th century after a global vote, because he dribbled past five England players before scoring.

Was the 7-1 Germany vs Brazil match really that shocking?

Yes — Brazil were strong favorites at home in the 2014 semifinal, and the scoreline is the largest ever in a World Cup semifinal.

How was this ranking decided?

The starting order reflects cultural impact and how often each moment is referenced in World Cup history. Visitors then vote to set the final community ranking.

Be the 1st to vote! Scroll up and tap the vote button next to your favorite moment.