United States 1994
Pain on the Field
The murder of Colombian defender Andrés Escobar cast a shadow over the 15th FIFA World Cup, in which Brazil returned to glory after 24 years.
Participating Teams: 24
- Germany
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- France
- Greece
- Netherlands
- Italy
- Ireland
- Norway
- Romania
- Russia
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Argentina
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Spain
- United States
- Mexico
- Cameroon
- Morocco
- Nigeria
- Saudi Arabia
- South Korea
The United States hosted the 15th FIFA World Cup, featuring 24 teams. It was also the last World Cup for Diego Maradona, who tested positive for doping after Argentina's 2-1 win against Nigeria.
Nigeria brought exciting football to the tournament, and Bulgaria shone thanks to the talent of Hristo Stoichkov. Meanwhile, Russia’s Oleg Salenko made history by scoring five goals in a single match against Cameroon.
Germany, a strong contender, was eliminated in the quarterfinals by Bulgaria. Since 1966 (excluding 1978), Germany had consistently reached the semifinals.
The Baby Celebration
Brazil impressed with its football, and Bebeto’s famous goal celebration—rocking his arms like a cradle alongside Romário and Mazinho—honored his newborn child.
The Tragedy
An own goal by Andrés Escobar against the United States knocked Colombia out of the World Cup during the group stage. Days later, Escobar was tragically murdered in Medellín, Colombia. The incident deeply mourned the football world, but the tournament continued.
The Final
Two champions, Brazil and Italy, met in the grand final. It was a defensive, lackluster match with a few key plays from Romário and Roberto Baggio. The match ended goalless, leading to a penalty shootout. Franco Baresi and Roberto Baggio missed their penalties in one of the most memorable moments in football history. Brazil triumphed 3-2.
Key Players:
- Hristo Stoichkov (Bulgaria): Top scorer alongside Salenko (Russia) with six goals each. He led Bulgaria to an impressive campaign.
- Roberto Baggio (Italy): One of Italy’s most skilled and prolific forwards of all time.
- Romário (Brazil): The star of the tournament, capable of scoring brilliant goals.
- Oleg Salenko (Russia): Made history by scoring five goals in a single match.
Final Four:
- Brazil
- Italy
- Sweden
- Bulgaria
