The 1966 FIFA World Cup was the eighth edition of the prestigious tournament, held in England from July 11 to July 30. This competition remains one of the most memorable in football history, not only for England’s triumph but also for the dramatic and controversial moments that defined it.
A total of 16 teams competed, with England, led by manager Alf Ramsey, emerging victorious on home soil. The final, played at Wembley Stadium in front of nearly 100,000 spectators, saw England face West Germany in a thrilling contest. The match ended 2-2 in regular time, forcing extra time. Geoff Hurst became the hero, scoring twice in extra time to complete a historic hat-trick—the only one ever scored in a World Cup final. England secured a 4-2 victory, lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy for the first and only time.
The tournament also featured iconic moments such as the controversial "Wembley Goal," where Hurst's shot hit the crossbar and bounced down—whether it fully crossed the line remains debated to this day. Portugal’s Eusébio emerged as the top scorer with nine goals, showcasing his brilliance throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, the competition saw an early exit for reigning champions Brazil, marking the end of an era.
This unforgettable World Cup cemented England’s place in football history and remains a cherished memory for fans worldwide.
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