#5 Roberto Baggio – 1994 FIFA World Cup Final
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After two fiercely contested finals between South American giants Argentina and European giants West Germany in 1986 and 1990, the 1994 finals in USA saw another South American giant take on a Europen giant.
The Samba kings Brazil took on Italy in what would be the first World Cup final to be decided on penalty shoot-outs.
After a goalless 120 minutes, Italy’s Franco Baresi stepped up to take the first penalty. The legendary defender missed his kick while Brazil also missed their first kick of the shootout.
However, after a series of conversions, Massaro missed Italy’s fourth penalty. Brazil’s captain Dunga converted their fourth penalty leaving Roberto Baggio to take the all important 5th penalty for Italy.
The then Ballon d’Or winner shocked the world by kicking the ball wide over the crossbar giving Brazil their 4th World Cup – the first nation to do so.
Bonus: Lionel Messi – 2016 Copa America
While it is absolutely unfair to single-handedly hold Lionel Messi’s penalty responsible for Argentina’s loss in the Copa America, the Barcelona forward has made his way onto the list for two reasons.
Firstly, as the captain of the team and the player to take the first penalty, Messi was meant to set the tone for the shootout. Arturo Vidal’s missed penalty couldn’t have made it easier for Messi. However, the little magician put the penalty over the crossbar.
The second reason for his inclusion in the list is thanks to the mess that followed. Just moments after the loss, Lionel Messi said he done with the national team sending the internet wild.
The missed penalty would go on to be the starting point of what was a messy summer break for Lionel Messi.
