This Day in History: 2023-06-14

Nr. 475

GAME OF THE CENTURY (1970)

The heat of battle matched the 100-degree conditions in the most absorbing dash of the 1970 World Cup. The semi-final would ensure a European finalist in Mexico City, and free-flowing West Germany met a resurgent Italy who had shown signs of an attacking renaissance.
Boninsegna cashed in on two fortunate rebounds to put Italy ahead on nine minutes, then misery piled up for the Germans when a tackle on Franz Beckenbauer left their talismanic captain with a dislocated shoulder, although he stayed on with his shoulder strapped to inspire an equaliser from Schnellinger.
In extra-time Muller put the Germans ahead, but Italy replied through Burgnich and Riva. In a pulsating finish Muller scored again, but at 3-3 West Germany learnt that a minute can be a long time in football, for that was all Rivera needed to finish it for Italy.

Ultimately the West German resistance – inspired by Beckenbauer – took it’s toll on ltaly who were through to face Brazil in the Final.