Switzerland 1954

The 1954 FIFA World Cup in Switzerland is best known for "The Miracle of Bern," where the underdog West Germany team overturned Hungary's dominance to win their first World Cup. This final was a stunning upset, with the Germans overcoming a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2, despite the Hungarians' earlier 8-3 victory over them in the group stages and their unbeaten record over the previous four years, including the earlier tournament rounds. The match was played in heavy rain, dubbed "The Rain of Bern," which some argue leveled the playing field against the mighty Hungarian side led by Ferenc Puskás. The tournament was a goal fest, with an average of over five goals per game, and was the first to be broadcast on television, bringing the excitement of the game into homes across the continent. The 1954 World Cup is often remembered for its David versus Goliath storyline and the spirit of post-war resurgence it symbolized for West Germany.