Relive the most unforgettable World Cup moments of the 21st century—from legendary goals to shocking upsets. A must-read for every football fan.
Best World Cup Moments of the 21st Century
Since the turn of the millennium, the FIFA World Cup has delivered countless unforgettable memories that have captivated millions around the world. From miraculous goals and last-minute winners to fairytale underdog stories and emotional farewells, the tournament remains the ultimate stage for footballing drama.
As we move further into the 21st century, it’s worth reflecting on the iconic moments that have defined modern football. These events have not only thrilled fans but also shaped the narratives of nations, players, and the beautiful game itself.
In this article, we revisit the best World Cup moments of the 21st century, celebrating the magic, the heartbreak, and the passion that makes Pragmatic Play malaysia the world’s game.
1. Zinedine Zidane’s Headbutt – 2006 Final
The 2006 FIFA World Cup final between France and Italy is remembered for many reasons, but none more so than Zinedine Zidane’s shocking headbutt on Marco Materazzi.
In what was to be his final professional match, Zidane had already scored a Panenka penalty and was dictating the game. Then, in extra time, he stunned the world by responding to a verbal taunt from Materazzi with a violent headbutt to the chest.
Zidane was shown a red card, and Italy went on to win in a penalty shootout. It was a tragic and unforgettable end to a legendary career—a moment that still defines the 2006 tournament.
2. Germany 7–1 Brazil – 2014 Semi-Final
Arguably the most jaw-dropping result in World Cup history, Germany’s 7–1 demolition of Brazil in the 2014 semi-final left the football world in disbelief.
Played in Belo Horizonte, Brazil’s hopes of lifting the trophy on home soil were dashed within minutes, as Germany scored five goals in the first 29 minutes.
It wasn’t just the scoreline—it was the manner of the dominance that shocked fans globally. Miroslav Klose also made history by becoming the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, overtaking Ronaldo Nazário.
The result devastated Brazilian fans and became a defining image of World Cup humiliation.
3. Iniesta’s Winner in 2010 Final
In the 2010 World Cup final in South Africa, Spain and the Netherlands were locked in a tense, goalless battle that extended into extra time.
Then came the breakthrough: Andrés Iniesta, the maestro of Spanish midfield, latched onto a pass from Cesc Fàbregas and fired the ball past Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg in the 116th minute.
Spain’s 1–0 victory secured their first-ever World Cup title, capping off an era of tiki-taka dominance. Iniesta’s celebration, in which he honored the late Dani Jarque, was a moment of emotional and sporting beauty.
4. Ghana’s Heartbreak Against Uruguay – 2010
Few World Cup moments have packed the emotional intensity of Ghana vs. Uruguay in the 2010 quarter-finals.
With the score tied 1–1 and seconds remaining in extra time, Ghana had a chance to become the first African nation to reach a semi-final. A goal-bound header was stopped on the line by Luis Suárez’s deliberate handball.
Suárez was sent off, but Asamoah Gyan missed the resulting penalty. Uruguay won in the shootout, and Suárez became a villain-hero hybrid, celebrated in Uruguay and condemned elsewhere.
It remains one of the most controversial moments in World Cup football.
5. Ronaldo’s Redemption – 2002
After a painful 1998 final, where he suffered a mysterious medical issue, Ronaldo Nazário returned in 2002 with a vengeance.
He scored eight goals in the tournament, including two in the final against Germany, leading Brazil to their fifth World Cup title.
Ronaldo’s redemption arc, complete with his iconic haircut and unstoppable form, cemented his place among the all-time greats.
His comeback is a powerful testament to resilience in the world of football.
6. South Korea’s Dream Run – 2002
As co-hosts of the 2002 tournament, South Korea stunned the world by reaching the semi-finals.
Under the leadership of Guus Hiddink, they beat giants like Italy (2–1) and Spain (on penalties) in matches filled with drama and controversy.
While refereeing decisions drew criticism, South Korea’s fighting spirit and the passionate support of their home fans made their run unforgettable.
This moment put Asian football firmly on the global map.
7. James Rodríguez’s Wonder Goal – 2014
In 2014, Colombian playmaker James Rodríguez announced himself to the world with a stunning volley against Uruguay in the Round of 16.
Receiving the ball outside the box, James chested it down and unleashed a left-footed rocket that crashed in off the crossbar.
The goal was voted Goal of the Tournament and earned James the Golden Boot with six goals.
It was a defining moment for Colombian football and sparked a blockbuster move to Real Madrid.
8. Saudi Arabia Stuns Argentina – 2022
In one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina 2–1 in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
After going 1–0 down to a Lionel Messi penalty, Saudi Arabia scored two quick second-half goals and held firm under immense pressure.
Their passionate defending, tactical discipline, and inspired performance shocked global audiences and proved that no match in football is a formality.
It also marked the beginning of a tournament full of surprises.
9. Mbappé’s Hat-Trick in 2022 Final
The 2022 final between Argentina and France was one of the greatest football matches ever played. While Argentina eventually triumphed on penalties, the match was also Kylian Mbappé’s coronation as the future face of world football.
Mbappé scored a hat-trick in the final, becoming the second man in history to do so, and even converted his penalty in the shootout.
His performance, electric pace, and big-game mentality captivated millions—cementing his status as a modern football legend.
10. Italy’s Return to Glory – 2006
The 2006 World Cup saw Italy reclaim global supremacy, defeating France in a dramatic final.
The tournament was filled with iconic Italian performances, including Andrea Pirlo’s vision, Fabio Cannavaro’s defending, and Gianluigi Buffon’s brilliance in goal.
Winning the title after a penalty shootout, Italy brought joy to a country still recovering from the Calciopoli scandal.
The victory showed the world the enduring power of Italian football tradition.
Honorable Mentions
- Germany’s last-minute win vs. Argentina (2014 final)
- Panama’s first-ever World Cup goal (2018)
- Croatia’s journey to the final (2018)
- Senegal’s stunning debut (2002)
Final Thoughts
The 21st century has been a golden era for World Cup moments. From moments of sheer brilliance to unforgettable heartbreaks, these events have captured the essence of football: unpredictable, emotional, and unifying.
Every four years, the World Cup reminds us why we love this sport. It’s about more than just goals or trophies—it’s about narratives, heroes, villains, and history in the making.
Which of these moments stirred your emotions the most? The magic of football lives in these memories, and countless more are still to come. Stay passionate, share your favorite moments, and keep supporting the beautiful game. Join millions of fans worldwide and celebrate football—on every pitch, every screen, and in every heart.