Pele at the Azteca? England in '66? Ranking the best World Cup finals
Pele and Brazil at the Azteca in 1970? Lionel Messi's first World Cup? England winning it on home soil in 1966? BBC Sport attempts to rank the best finals.
The discussion around the best World Cup finals is always a lively one, and the BBC Sport ranking provides a great opportunity to reflect on some of the most iconic moments in football history. The inclusion of Pele and Brazil at the Azteca in 1970 is a no-brainer, given the team's dominance and Pele's status as one of the greatest players of all time. Their 4-1 win over Italy is often cited as one of the greatest World Cup finals of all time.
England's 1966 World Cup win on home soil is another highlight, marking a pivotal moment in the country's football history. The tournament was also notable for being the first to feature a iconic brand of football, with the 1966 England team embodying the spirit of the era. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi's first World Cup in 2006 marked the beginning of a new era for Argentina, and his continued success in the tournament has cemented his status as one of the all-time greats.
As we look ahead to future World Cups, it's worth keeping an eye on how the tournament continues to evolve. With the next World Cup set to take place in 2026, fans will be eager to see if any new teams or players can make history. Will we see a repeat of past glories, or a new champion emerge? One thing is certain - the World Cup continues to captivate audiences around the world, and its impact on the sport and popular culture will only continue to grow.
Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.