Major Historical Events in Football
2016 – Portugal wins Euro 2016 Portugal beat host nation France 1–0 in the Euro 2016 final at the Stade de France. Despite losing Cristiano Ronaldo to injury early in the match, Éder scored an extra-time winner to give Portugal its first-ever major tournament title.
2011 – Japan wins the FIFA Women’s World Cup Japan triumphed over the United States in a dramatic final, winning 3–1 on penalties after a 2–2 draw. It was Japan’s first Women’s World Cup title, and a defining moment for the country after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
1982 – Marco Tardelli scores in World Cup final Italy defeated West Germany 3–1 in the World Cup final in Madrid. Marco Tardelli’s goal and passionate celebration became one of the most iconic moments in World Cup history.
1998 – France wins its first FIFA World Cup Host nation France stunned Brazil with a 3–0 victory in the 1998 World Cup final at Stade de France. Zinedine Zidane scored two first-half headers and Emmanuel Petit added a third to secure the win.
Notable Football Birthdays – July 10
- Giorgio Chiellini (1984): Italian defender, Euro 2020 winner, and Juventus icon.
- Mario Gómez (1985): German striker and Champions League winner with Bayern Munich.
- Juan Fernando Quintero (1993): Colombian playmaker known for his creativity and goals at River Plate.
- Kenny Miller (1979): Scottish striker who played for Rangers, Celtic, and the national team.
- Julien Faubert (1983): French winger, famously loaned to Real Madrid.
- Rodrigo Palacio (1982): Argentine forward, part of the 2014 World Cup squad.
Memorable Moments
France’s first World Cup (1998): Led by Zidane’s brilliance, France claimed its maiden World Cup title on home soil and united a nation in celebration.
Portugal’s underdog triumph (2016): Portugal shocked the hosts and silenced critics, winning Euro 2016 despite Ronaldo’s early injury. Éder’s goal will live long in Portuguese football history.
Japan’s emotional victory (2011): Against the odds, Japan lifted the Women’s World Cup just months after a national tragedy. Their resilience and composure inspired fans worldwide.
Trivia of the Day
Which player scored two headers in the 1998 World Cup final? Answer: Zinedine Zidane
Quote of the Day
“We were playing for all of France, and for every kid who dreamed of moments like this.” — Zinedine Zidane (on France’s 1998 World Cup win)