1966 World Cup Final

The final between England and West Germany is one of the most exciting and controversial matches in the history of the World Cup. England play in front of a passionate home crowd but the teams are evenly matched. West Germany score first but Hurst equalises to leave the score 1-1 at half time.

In the second-half England pressure results in a Martin Peters goal. England lead 2-1 as time runs down. In the last ten minutes West Germany continually attack but England hold on. The World Cup is within reach.

Then the 89th minute when West Germany equalise.

In extra time Geoff Hurst scored one of the most controversial goals in the history of the World Cup. Hurst shot against the underside of the bar, and the ball bounced back down into play.

Did the ball cross the line?

The referee could not see if it had crossed the line. The referee ran over and talked to his Russian linesman. A few seconds later he turned and signalled a goal.


Did the third goal cross the line? It is impossible to know for certain. Geoff Hurst, however, is sure that his goal was a real one. 'Roger Hunt turned away. He knew it was a goal.'


In the last minute of extra-time the ball was cleared out of the English defence. Hurst ran at the German goal with the ball at his feet and shot. The ball flew into the top corner of the net