11 Classic FIFA World Cup Matches
8. Hungary Vs. Germany (1954, World Cup Final)
Germany might be perennial world champions these days, but few expected West Germany to life the cup in 1954. Hungary were the red-hot favorites to lift the Jules Rimet trophy when they took on the Germans in the 1954 final, unbeaten for four years and having already defeated Germany 8-3 in an earlier group game. The Mighty Magyars had also scored a record number of goals at the World Cup.
At first, everything seemed to be going to script. Hungary went a goal up after just six minutes when Ferenc Puskas scored, followed by Zoltan Czibor capitalising on a German defensive mix up to double the lead just a few minutes later.
The Miracle of Bern began when the Germans pulled a goal back shortly after going two down. Helmut Rahn equalized within the first half, and the score remained 2-2 for much of the game. Hungary dominated much of the second half, but West Germany's Walter shocked the world with a low-strike to make things 3-2 with just six minutes to play. Hungary's blushes were seemingly spared thanks to a Puskas equaliser, only to see it ruled out for offside. West Germany clung on for a remarkable victory.