The Miracle of Bern

On 4 July 1954, West Germany produced one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history when they defeated Hungary 3–2 in the final in Bern, Switzerland. Hungary, known as the Mighty Magyars, had been unbeaten in 31 international matches and were overwhelming favourites. They had already beaten West Germany 8–3 earlier in the tournament. Hungary raced into a 2–0 lead after just eight minutes, but West Germany fought back to level the scores before Helmut Rahn struck the winning goal in the 84th minute. The remarkable victory became known as the "Miracle of Bern" and gave West Germany their first World Cup title.