A Tournament That Defined an Era

The 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany stands as one of the most memorable tournaments in football history. Held from June 9 to July 9, 2006, this eighteenth edition of the World Cup brought together 32 nations competing for the ultimate prize in international football.

Germany proved to be an exceptional host nation, welcoming millions of fans from around the world with the spirit of "A Time to Make Friends" - the official slogan that defined the tournament's atmosphere. Twelve cities across Germany opened their magnificent stadiums to host 64 matches of breathtaking football.

The tournament delivered unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with football enthusiasts worldwide. From the group stage drama to the knockout rounds' intensity, the 2006 World Cup showcased the beautiful game at its finest.

Italy emerged as champions, claiming their fourth World Cup title after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over France in the final at Berlin's Olympiastadion. The final itself became one of the most talked-about matches in football history, featuring Zinedine Zidane's infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi in extra time - a controversial moment that marked the end of the legendary French midfielder's career.

This archive preserves the complete story of the 2006 World Cup - every goal, every memorable match, and every moment that made this tournament special. Whether you experienced the tournament live or want to discover its magic for the first time, this comprehensive resource brings the spirit of Germany 2006 back to life.

Learn more from FIFA's official 2006 World Cup archive.