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Today in History: Italy beats West Germany, claims third World Cup

7/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 11 July 1982, Italy beat West Germany 3–1 in the World Cup final at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu, securing the Azzurri’s third championship. Goals from Paolo Rossi, Marco Tardelli and Alessandro Altobelli overturned an early German strike, cementing Italy’s place among football’s elite.

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Story summary

On 11 July 1982, Italy beat West Germany 3–1 in the World Cup final at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu, securing the Azzurri’s third championship. Goals from Paolo Rossi, Marco Tardelli and Alessandro Altobelli overturned an early German strike, cementing Italy’s place among football’s elite.