What are the first moments that come to mind when you reflect on the greatest men’s FIFA World Cup highlights?
Perhaps it’s Diego Maradona weaving through England’s defense for the Goal of the Century. Or a legend like Pelé or Lionel Messi hoisting the trophy toward the sky. Maybe it’s something more controversial, like Cristiano Ronaldo’s wink after getting Wayne Rooney sent off.
As we build up to this summer’s tournament, we’re counting down the most iconic, controversial, and defining moments in World Cup history. Check out today’s entry, and keep reading as we work our way to the number one World Cup moment ever.
**No. 100: Pure Control, Pure Class, Pure Messi**
In 2018, the pressure on Lionel Messi was mounting. Argentina’s captain had failed to score in two matches, including a 3-0 loss to Croatia. He needed to deliver against Nigeria. Then, the Messi magic surfaced.
This touch from Messi saved Argentina 🤯 No. 100 in Best FIFA World Cup™ Moments
Argentina won the game and advanced. An unbelievable first touch from Lionel Messi rescued his team. Though Argentina was eliminated by eventual champions France in the round of 16, Messi’s sublime goal was arguably the best of the tournament.
**No. 99: Red Card for … Celebrating?!**
A Red Card to Remember 🟥 No. 99 in Best FIFA World Cup Moments
Vincent Aboubakar made history for Cameroon when he scored a game-winning goal against Brazil in 2022—the first time an African nation had beaten the five-time world champions in a World Cup. The catch? He was sent off for excessive celebration.
Despite the win, the Indomitable Lions were still knocked out, while Brazil advanced to the knockout rounds. Still, it was a punishment worth the moment of shirtless joy. Even the referee seemed to feel a tad sorry for handing out that red card.
**No. 98: Cuauhtémoc Blanco Leaps Into History**
This move was so WILD, they named it after him 🤯 No. 98 in Best FIFA World Cup™ Moments
Looking to shake off a couple of defenders? Consider trying this trademark move created by one of Mexico’s greatest-ever players. It was so impressive that it became known worldwide as the “Cuauhtemiña.”
At the 1998 World Cup, Cuauhtémoc Blanco clamped the ball between his feet and hopped like a kangaroo between two South Korean defenders. It didn’t lead to a goal, but the player from el barrio bravo de Tepito produced a move that instantly jumped into the hearts and minds of soccer fans everywhere.
**No. 97: Klinsmann’s Roundhouse Flick**
This volley was BEAUTIFUL 🇩🇪 No. 97 in Best FIFA World Cup™ Moments
Long before he coached the U.S. men’s national team at the 2014 World Cup, Jürgen Klinsmann scored plenty of goals for Germany, including this stunner against South Korea.
Klinsmann, who four years earlier had helped his country win the World Cup for the third time, turned what looked like a routine pass reception with his back to the goal into one of the most memorable goals of USA ’94 with a single swivel of his hips.
**No. 96: This Free Kick Changed USA Soccer History**
This Free Kick CHANGED History 🇺🇸 No. 96 in Best FIFA World Cup™ Moments
The U.S. men’s national team hadn’t made a mark at the World Cup in decades—until the USA hosted the 1994 edition. It changed thanks to a wonder-goal against Switzerland by American star Eric Wynalda.
Wynalda’s unstoppable, curling free kick just before halftime nearly blew the roof off the Silverdome in suburban Detroit. The match ended 1-1. That point, plus an upset victory over Colombia a few days later, was enough to send the USA to the second round, where they took eventual champion Brazil to extra time before losing 1-0.
**No. 95: One of the Best Opening Goals Ever**
You Couldn’t Script a Better Opening Goal 🇩🇪 No. 95 in Best FIFA World Cup™ Moments
In 2006, Germany legend Philipp Lahm scored a sensational opener against Costa Rica, setting the tone for a thrilling tournament.
