When the greatest moments in FIFA World Cup history come to mind, names like Diego Maradona, Pelé, and Lionel Messi often dominate the conversation. Maradona’s “Goal of the Century” against England, Messi lifting the trophy high, or even Cristiano Ronaldo’s controversial wink after Wayne Rooney’s red card are all etched in memory. But before Messi or Maradona became icons, there was Mario Kempes—the man who led Argentina to its first World Cup title in 1978. As we count down the most defining moments in tournament history, here’s a look at some unforgettable entries.
No. 100: Pure Control, Pure Class, Pure Messi
In 2018, Lionel Messi faced immense pressure. Argentina’s captain had gone scoreless through two games, including a 3-0 loss to Croatia, and needed a spark against Nigeria. That’s when Messi produced an unbelievable first touch to score and save Argentina’s campaign. La Albiceleste won the match and advanced, though they were eliminated by eventual champions France in the round of 16. Messi’s sublime goal remains one of the tournament’s best.
No. 99: Red Card for Celebrating?
Vincent Aboubakar made history for Cameroon in 2022, scoring a game-winning goal against Brazil—the first time an African side had beaten the five-time champions in a World Cup. But his shirtless celebration earned him a second yellow card and a red. Despite the punishment, the moment of joy was worth it, and even the referee seemed to regret the decision.
No. 98: Cuauhtémoc Blanco Leaps Into History
Mexican star Cuauhtémoc Blanco created a move so iconic it became known as the “Cuauhtemiña.” At the 1998 World Cup, he clamped the ball between his feet and hopped like a kangaroo between two South Korean defenders. Though it didn’t lead to a goal, the audacious move immediately won the hearts of soccer fans worldwide.
No. 97: Klinsmann’s Roundhouse Flick
Long before coaching the U.S. men’s national team, Jürgen Klinsmann scored a stunning goal for Germany against South Korea at the 1994 World Cup. With his back to goal, he turned a routine pass reception into a memorable volley with one swivel of his hips, four years after helping Germany win the World Cup.
No. 96: This Free Kick Changed USA Soccer History
The U.S. men’s national team hadn’t made a World Cup splash in decades until the 1994 tournament hosted on home soil. Against Switzerland, Eric Wynalda curled an unstoppable free kick just before halftime, nearly blowing the roof off the Silverdome. The match ended 1-1, and that point, combined with an upset win over Colombia, sent the U.S. into the knockout stage.
