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The Azzurri won the FIFA World Cup for the fourth time after holding their nerves in a dramatic penalty shoot-out. For their performances in the group stages, Round of 16, quarter-finals and semis, football fans all over the world would agree that Marcello Lippi’s side were worthy winners of the competition.

The 2006 FIFA World Cup Germanyâ„¢ kept billions entranced around the globe. The first FIFA World Cup in a reunited Germany, it proved a resounding success, revealing the host nation as a vibrant, colourful and cosmopolitan place.

Final: Italy - France 5-3 P.S.O.

Auf Wiedersehen Germany - Wamkelekele eMzansi Africa!

The first round of the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japanâ„¢ reflected a changing football world as upsets and surprises thrilled right from the start. In the end however, it was two familiar faces, Germany and Brazil, who played for the world championship, and it was the South Americans who won their unprecedented fifth FIFA World Cup.

Ronaldo, who suffered a famously poor final four years earlier, was the hero for the Seleçao, scoring both in the 2-0 victory. He ended up with eight goals in the tournament – the most in a FIFA World Cup since Gerd Müller scored ten times at Mexico ‘70.

Final: Brazil - Germany 2-0

The 16th FIFA World Cupâ„¢ was the largest ever, contested by 32 teams with 64 matches played. The eight groups of four teams were spread out throughout France in the ten new or refurbished stadia, with the opening game and the final held in the splendid new Stade de France just north of Paris.

32 countries meant 30 qualifying spots, providing more opportunities for teams from Africa and Asia. The four-team groups also reflected the geographical spread, with all but one of the pools comprising two Europeans, one from the Americas and one from Africa or Asia.

Final: France - Brazil 3-0

A superb FIFA World Cupâ„¢ marred only by a disappointing final which Brazil won on penalties after a goalless draw with Italy. There were plenty of goals, excitement, drama and surprises. Bulgaria, who had never won a FIFA World Cup match in 16 previous attempts, were the biggest upsets beating Germany en route to the semi-finals.

There was drama when Diego Maradona, Argentina’s hero of 1986, tested positive for drugs and was expelled from the tournament, and there was tragedy too when Colombian Andres Escobar was murdered days after returning home from scoring an own goal against the United States.

Final: Brazil - Italy 3-2 P.S.O.