In 1966, England won its first World Cup after a controversial goal changed history
England captured its only World Cup title in 1966 following a dramatic final against West Germany, featuring a controversial 'ghost goal' that remains one of football's greatest mysteries.
England reached the pinnacle of football on July 30, 1966, defeating West Germany 4-2 at Wembley Stadium. The match is legendary for Geoff Hurst's hat-trick, but it is defined by his second goal during extra time. After hitting the crossbar, the ball bounced down toward the goal line, and the linesman ruled it had crossed, granting England a 3-2 lead.
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