Sadly, I was not around when England’s football team last won the World Cup. Since the inaugural tournament in 1930, the World Cup has been awarded every four years – except in 1942 and 1946 – and the England fans are used to the constant media attention for the squad and the disappointment when we don’t win…. ever (in my lifetime)!
But once, just once, we did! On this day in 1966, captained by Bobby Moore, England beat West Germany by four goals to two at London’s Wembley Stadium. At half-time, the score was 1-1, thanks to a goal from Geoff Hurst. Martin Peters scored a second goal but 15 seconds from full-time, West Germany drew level from a free kick. Geoff Hurst scored two goals in extra-time to secure the victory…. even though one of his goals was a little dubious but allowed when a Russian linesman confirmed that the ball had crossed the line. Geoff Hurst was the first player in history to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final.
The current champions are Germany who recently won their fourth title at the 2014 tournament in Brazil. Brazil are the most successful team, having won the World Cup five times. The 2018 World Cup will be the 21st event and is scheduled to take place in Russia. Maybe the Russian connection might be a good omen for the England team….? Hm…. doubtful.
