11 Classic FIFA World Cup Matches
4. Italy Vs. Germany (1970, Semi Final)
Italy and West Germany are undoubtedly giants of the World Cup, and this was perhaps the most enthralling game played between them. A plaque at the Estadio Azteca, where the game was played, reads:
“The Azteca Stadium pays homage to the National Teams of Italy (4) and Germany (3), who starred in the 1970 FIFA World Cup, the Game of the Century. June 17th 1970.”
So not bad, then.
That said, it probably wasn't the most thrilling World Cup based on the opening 90 minutes. Italy were on course for a 1-0 victory before Schnellinger scored a last-minute equalizer. Gerd Mueller put the Germans ahead shortly after extra time kicked off, but the Italians grabbed an equalizer just four minutes later. They then then caught Germany on the counter to go 3-2 up just before the end of the first half of extra time.
Germany weren't to be beaten. Mueller equalized in the second half of extra time - but the drama didn't stop there. Just a minute later, an unmarked Gigi Rivera slotted the ball in to send the Azzurri into raptures.