A cautious, dramatic tournament
1990 is remembered for low scoring and tactical caution—it set a then-record low for goals per game—yet produced unforgettable drama: Cameroon's run to the quarter-finals led by Roger Milla, and England's penalty heartbreak in the semi-finals.
The final and its fallout
Argentina, with Maradona, had two players sent off in a bad-tempered final settled by Brehme's spot-kick. The disappointing spectacle helped push FIFA toward rule changes, including three points for a win and the back-pass ban.
Top scorer and context
Italy's Salvatore Schillaci won the Golden Boot with six goals during his 'Notti Magiche' run. For every champion since 1930, see /world-cup-winners-list.
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Frequently asked questions
Who won the 1990 World Cup?+
West Germany, beating Argentina 1–0 in the final in Rome.
Who scored the winning goal?+
Andreas Brehme from the penalty spot.
Who was top scorer in 1990?+
Salvatore Schillaci of Italy with six goals.
Why is 1990 remembered as defensive?+
It set a record-low goals-per-game average and prompted later rule changes.