Major Historical Events in Football
1982 – Italy stuns Poland to reach World Cup final Italy defeated Poland 2–0 in the semi-final of the 1982 World Cup, with Paolo Rossi scoring both goals. It continued Rossi’s golden run and sent the Azzurri into their first final since 1970.
1998 – Brazil qualifies for World Cup final on penalties After a goalless semi-final against the Netherlands, Brazil won 4–2 in the shootout. Taffarel’s save from Ronald de Boer and Dunga’s winning kick sent Brazil to their second straight World Cup final.
2006 – Italy defeats Germany in extra time thriller Italy beat host nation Germany 2–0 in the 2006 World Cup semi-final with dramatic extra-time goals from Fabio Grosso and Alessandro Del Piero. The match is widely regarded as one of the best semi-finals ever played.
2019 – United States wins FIFA Women’s World Cup The U.S. Women’s National Team beat the Netherlands 2–0 in the 2019 Women’s World Cup final in Lyon. Goals from Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle secured back-to-back titles for the Americans.
2021 – Italy defeats Spain in Euro 2020 semi-final Italy won 4–2 on penalties after a 1–1 draw with Spain in the Euro 2020 semi-final at Wembley. Jorginho sealed the shootout with a trademark hop-step finish.
Notable Football Birthdays – July 7
- Marcello Lippi (1948): World Cup-winning coach with Italy in 2006, also a Champions League winner with Juventus.
- Jermain Defoe (1982): Former England striker with 20 international goals and a prolific Premier League record.
- Miroslav Stoch (1989): Slovakian winger who played for Chelsea and Fenerbahçe.
- Toby Alderweireld (1989): Belgian defender, known for spells at Ajax, Atlético Madrid, and Tottenham.
- Ali Daei (1969): Iranian legend and former all-time international top scorer.
- Luca Toni (1977): Italian striker, World Cup winner in 2006 and Bundesliga Golden Boot winner.
- Youssef En-Nesyri (1997): Moroccan international striker and World Cup 2022 semi-finalist.
Memorable Moments
Italy’s late heroics (2006): Grosso’s curling strike in the 119th minute followed by Del Piero’s counter-attack finish gave Italy a dramatic win over Germany in Dortmund.
USWNT’s fourth title (2019): Megan Rapinoe’s penalty and Lavelle’s solo goal clinched the title and capped a dominant campaign that made headlines around the world.
Paolo Rossi’s rise continues (1982): Rossi scored a brace against Poland, continuing his incredible return from suspension and sealing Italy’s spot in the final.
Trivia of the Day
Which player scored the winning goal for Italy in the 2006 World Cup semi-final against Germany? Answer: Fabio Grosso
Quote of the Day
“I hit the ball with everything I had. And I ran like I was flying.” — Fabio Grosso (on his 119th-minute goal vs. Germany, 2006)