2022: Messi's crowning moment
Argentina edged France 4–2 on penalties after a 3–3 thriller in Lusail. Lionel Messi scored twice, including in extra time, before Gonzalo Montiel converted the decisive spot-kick. Kylian Mbappé’s hat-trick wasn’t enough for France, who fell short of back-to-back titles. The victory ended Argentina’s 36-year drought since Diego Maradona lifted the trophy in 1986.
Brazil's five-star legacy
No nation has won more World Cups than Brazil’s five. Pelé inspired their first three (1958, 1962, 1970), while Romário (1994) and Ronaldo (2002) delivered the others. Their 1970 team, featuring Jairzinho and Carlos Alberto, is often considered the greatest ever. Yet they’ve struggled recently – their last final was 2002, with four quarterfinal exits since.
Europe’s heavyweights
Germany and Italy trail Brazil with four titles each. Germany’s 2014 win in Rio – including that 7–1 semifinal thrashing of Brazil – was their most recent. Italy last triumphed in 2006, with Fabio Grosso’s penalty sealing victory over France. Spain (2010) and France (1998, 2018) complete Europe’s modern dominance, winning five of the last seven tournaments.
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Frequently asked questions
Has any team won back-to-back World Cups?+
Only Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962) have won consecutive World Cups. France came closest recently, reaching the 2022 final after their 2018 triumph.
Which country has the most World Cup finals losses?+
Germany have lost four finals (1966, 1982, 1986, 2002). Argentina and the Netherlands have three runner-up finishes each.
When was the last World Cup final decided in normal time?+
Germany’s 1–0 win over Argentina in 2014 (Mario Götze’s extra-time volley) was the last final requiring extra time. The previous three went to penalties (2006, 2010, 2022).
Has a host nation ever won the World Cup?+
Six hosts have won: Uruguay (1930), Italy (1934), England (1966), West Germany (1974), Argentina (1978), and France (1998). Brazil (1950) and Sweden (1958) finished runners-up at home.