On This Day at the World Cup – June 17: Match of the Century

This year marks the 56th anniversary of Italy beating West Germany 4-3 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City in the greatest World Cup semi-final ever played.

A plaque inside the ground commemorates the game as the ‘Match of the Century’ but for 90 minutes there was little to suggest it may be deserving of such a reputation.

Italy took the lead through Roberto Boninsegna’s eighth-minute goal and looked to have booked a spot in the final against Brazil until AC Milan centre-back Karl-Heinz Schnellinger equalised with 92 minutes on the clock.

Then FIVE goals were scored in extra-time.

Gerd Muller put Germany in front before Tarcisio Burgnich levelled it again. The Azzurri regained the lead through a beautiful finish from Gigi Riva only for Muller claim his second when he flicked Uwe Seeler’s header past Gianni Rivera, who was covering the post.

Rivera immediately made amends, finishing off a glorious team move 60 seconds later to seal Italy’s win.

Riva was Italy’s top scorer at the tournament with three goals and had just steered Cagliari to the Scudetto. They haven’t won it since but there is never a bad time to start planning a trip to the Sardinian capital to watch Cagliari in front of their passionate fans at the Unipol Domus.

As for the city, it offers great food, beautiful views and sunshine. Check out our playbook for tips on where to stay and the best places to eat and drink, plus things to do.