Italy’s national team has offered football fans moments of magic, heartache, mastery and drama.
This article dives into the Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy — games that defined eras, changed narratives, and made “Azzurri” a name to fear and celebrate.
What Makes the Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy
To qualify among the Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy, a game needs to tick multiple boxes: stakes (World Cup, Euros), drama (extra-time, penalties), quality of opposition, iconic moments (goals, controversies, comebacks), and lasting impact on Italian football identity.
The Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy
Here are ten unforgettable matches that every fan of Italy must know:
1. Italy 3-2 Brazil (1982, World Cup Second Round)
In what many call one of the greatest international games ever, Italy defeated Brazil in a spectacular game where Paolo Rossi scored a hat-trick, Brazil’s attack dazzled, but Italian resolve won the day.
The result knocked out Brazil, who were favorites, and propelled Italy on the path to lifting the World Cup.
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2. Italy 4-3 West Germany (1970, World Cup Semi-Final “Game of the Centuryâ€)
Seven goals, lead changes, extra time fireworks — this classic at the Estadio Azteca had it all.
Roberto Boninsegna opened the scoring, Germany clawed back, then in extra time Gianni Rivera struck the winner.
A match that lives on not only for its scoreboard but for its spirit.
3. Italy 1-1 France (2006, World Cup Final)
A tense, tactical final in Berlin.
France scored early with Zidane’s penalty; Italy equalized through Materazzi.
After extra time, penalties decided the match.
Fabio Grosso’s spot kick gave Italy their fourth World Cup crown.
Drama at its finest.
4. Italy 1-1 England (2021, EURO Final, Italy win on Pens)
An emotional return to the top for Italy.
England stunned early with Luke Shaw’s goal. Bonucci replied.
After extra time, it came down to penalties — where Italy held their nerve, with Donnarumma delivering when it mattered most.
5. Italy vs Spain (2008, European Championship Quarterfinals)
A game of tactical tension.
Italy held Spain in a scoreless draw, but fell short in the penalty shoot‐out.
Though a loss, this match is remembered for Italy’s fighting spirit and resilience against the Spanish possession mastery.
6-10. Other Classics Worth Mentioning
While there are more than just five games in the pantheon of Italian football history, here are a few more that nearly made the core of the Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy:
- Italy vs Poland (1982 Semi-Final) – where Paolo Rossi continued his golden run.
- Italy vs Argentina (1986 World Cup) – intensity, skill, and dramatic swings.
- Italy vs Germany (2006 Semi-Final) – a clash of titans, tactical battles, memorable moments.
- Italy vs England (various tournaments) – always high stakes, always emotional.
- Italy vs Hungary (1954 or 1938 matches) – early international classics that shaped Italy’s style and reputation.
Why These Matches Matter
These fixtures are not just results in the history books.
They shaped the Italian football identity:
- Resilience: coming back from adversity (goals conceded, being under pressure, tournament elimination at stake).
- Tactical intelligence: Italy’s defensive structure, ability to absorb pressure, counter-attack.
- Iconic individuals: players who rose to the moment — Rossi, Rivera, Grosso, Bonucci, Donnarumma.
- Emotional connection: with the fans, the nation — these matches are part of Italy’s cultural memory.
The Best 10 Matches Ever for Italy show that great football isn’t just about goals or trophies, but about storytelling.
They remind us why we watch: feats of bravery, moments of beauty, heartbreaks, and triumphs.
Whether it’s winning on penalties, coming back from behind, or unseating the favorites, these matches define Italy — never predictable, always compelling.
