Ranking the Top 10 FIFA World Cup Finals in History

Since the inaugural FIFA World Cup in 1930, held in Uruguay, 22 tournaments have taken place, many etching their mark into football lore. The upcoming 23rd edition will conclude with Argentina facing Spain in New Jersey.

Here is a ranked list of the most memorable FIFA World Cup finals, moving from less dramatic to truly unforgettable clashes.

10. 1930: Uruguay 4 - 2 Argentina

The first final, at Montevideo’s Estadio Centenario, saw two South American teams battling for the title. Uruguay scored early through Pablo Dorado, but Argentina came back before halftime with goals by Carlos Peucelle and Guillermo Stábile. Despite Argentina's control, Uruguay stormed back in the second half with goals from Pedro Cea, Santos Iriarte, and Héctor Castro, winning the inaugural trophy on home soil.

9. 1970: Brazil 4 - 1 Italy

At Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, Brazil showcased one of the finest team efforts in World Cup history. Pelé opened the scoring early, followed by a late Italian equalizer from Roberto Boninsegna. Brazil dominated the second half, with Gérson, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto (whose goal is considered among the greatest in finals) sealing the victory.

8. 2010: Spain 1 - 0 Netherlands (after extra time)

The Johannesburg final was intense and rough, with 14 yellow cards and one red. The Netherlands received nine bookings including two for John Heitinga, who was sent off. Both sides failed to score during regular time, but Andrés Iniesta netted a decisive volley in extra time, securing Spain’s first World Cup.

7. 1986: Argentina 3 - 2 West Germany

Also at Estadio Azteca, this match was packed with tension. José Luis Brown and Jorge Valdano put Argentina ahead, but Germany fought back with goals from Karl-Heinz Rummenigge and Rudi Völler. Just as extra time seemed likely, Jorge Burruchaga scored the winner, granting Argentina their second title.

6. 1966: England 4 - 2 West Germany (after extra time)

Hosted at Wembley Stadium, England won their only World Cup on home ground. West Germany scored first, but Geoff Hurst equalized before halftime. After Martin Peters gave England the lead in extra time, Germany equalized late, only for Hurst to score twice more, amid some controversy about the goals.

5. 2002: Brazil 2 - 0 Germany

In Yokohama, Japan, Brazil claimed a record fifth title. Ronaldo scored both goals, one from a rebound after Rivaldo’s shot. He missed the 1998 final due to injury but made up for it by leading Brazil to victory this time.

4. 2014: Germany 1 - 0 Argentina (after extra time)

At the Maracanã Stadium in Rio, Mario Götze struck a stunning volley in extra time to break the deadlock. Lionel Messi had chances but could not find the net, allowing Germany to earn their fourth World Cup trophy.

3. 1950: Uruguay 2 - 1 Brazil

Brazil hosted for the first time, with the final staged at the Maracanã before 200,000 fans. Brazil led early in the second half thanks to Friaca, needing only a draw to win. Uruguay responded with goals from Juan Alberto Schiaffino and late hero Alcides Ghiggia, snatching their second World Cup in a major upset.

2. 2006: Italy 1 - 1 France (5-3 on penalties)

This Berlin final became infamous for its drama. Zidane opened scoring with a penalty, while Materazzi equalized for Italy. The match stayed tight with few chances, until Zidane’s headbutt on Materazzi led to his sending off in extra time. Italy triumphed on penalties, claiming their fourth World Cup.

1. 2022: Argentina 3 - 3 France (4-2 on penalties)

At Lusail Iconic Stadium in Qatar, this final was a rollercoaster. Argentina led 2-0 before Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick to force extra time. Messi put Argentina ahead again, but Mbappé leveled from the spot, pushing the contest to penalties. Argentina prevailed 4-3, with this thrilling encounter cementing itself as one of the greatest finals ever played.