On This Day – June 21: Football’s Greatest Moments and Player Birthdays

Historic Football Events on June 21

1. 1970 – Brazil Crowned World Champions for the Third Time Brazil defeated Italy 4-1 in the 1970 World Cup final in Mexico City, securing their third title and earning the right to keep the Jules Rimet Trophy. Pelé scored the opener and assisted the iconic fourth goal finished by Carlos Alberto in one of the most legendary team moves in football history.
2. 1986 – Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ and ‘Goal of the Century’ In a quarter-final clash between Argentina and England at the 1986 World Cup, Diego Maradona delivered two of the most famous goals in football history within four minutes: first the infamous “Hand of God” goal, and then a breathtaking solo run that is widely regarded as the greatest goal ever scored.
3. 1998 – Argentina and Croatia Advance at France ’98 Argentina beat Jamaica 5-0, with Gabriel Batistuta scoring a hat-trick, while Croatia defeated Romania 1-0. Both teams advanced to the Round of 16, showing their firepower and defensive resilience respectively.
4. 2006 – Netherlands vs Argentina Ends in Stalemate In one of the most anticipated group stage matches at the 2006 World Cup, Argentina and the Netherlands played to a 0-0 draw. Both sides had already qualified but showcased tactical discipline and world-class talent.
5. 2010 – Germany Survives Ghana to Progress Germany defeated Ghana 1-0 in the final group match of the 2010 World Cup, with Mesut Özil scoring the decisive goal. Both teams ultimately advanced, with Ghana becoming the only African team to reach the knockout stage that year.
6. 2014 – Lionel Messi’s Late Winner Against Iran In a tense group stage match, Lionel Messi scored a stunning stoppage-time goal to give Argentina a 1-0 win over Iran at the 2014 World Cup. The goal was a lifeline for Argentina and a moment of brilliance from their captain.

Notable Football Birthdays on June 21

• Michel Platini (1955) – French legend and former UEFA president, remembered for his brilliance as a playmaker and top scorer at Euro 1984.
• Victor Moses (1990) – Nigerian international and Premier League winner with Chelsea, known for his pace and versatility.
• Benazir Bhutto (1953–2007) – While not a footballer, she was the first woman to lead a Muslim-majority nation and supported women’s sports in Pakistan, including football.
• Raymond Kopa (1931–2017) – One of France’s earliest football greats, European Cup winner with Real Madrid and Ballon d’Or winner in 1958.
• Alejandro Garnacho (2004) – Young Argentine winger making waves at Manchester United, known for his speed and flair.
• Rashidi Yekini (1963–2012) – Nigeria’s all-time top scorer, remembered for his passionate celebration after scoring the country’s first World Cup goal in 1994.
• Antonio Cassano (1982) – Italian forward blessed with vision and creativity, though often marred by off-field controversies.

Memorable Moments

• Maradona’s Magic (1986): Few matches have been as iconic as Argentina vs England in 1986. Maradona’s audacity, skill, and drama defined not only the game but the entire tournament.
• Brazil’s 1970 Masterclass: Pelé’s final World Cup match was a footballing spectacle. Brazil’s fourth goal, with multiple passes and Carlos Alberto’s thunderous finish, remains one of the finest team goals ever recorded.
• Messi’s Clutch Moment (2014): With Argentina struggling to break Iran’s defense, Messi’s curling effort from outside the box in stoppage time reminded the world of his genius under pressure.

Trivia of the Day

Who scored a hat-trick for Brazil in the 1970 World Cup final?

Answer: No player scored a hat-trick. Brazil’s goals were scored by Pelé, Gérson, Jairzinho, and Carlos Alberto.

Quote of the Day

“To see the ball, to run after it, makes me the happiest man in the world.” — Diego Maradona