Brazil Marks 30 Years Since Clinching Its Fourth FIFA World Cup Title

Brazil clinched its fourth FIFA World Cup title in the United States by defeating Italy on penalties on 17th July 1994. Romário, the standout player of the tournament, scored alongside Branco and Dunga, while Italy missed three crucial shots.


The New York Times reported that the match at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, drew around 94,000 spectators and two billion television viewers globally. Both teams were vying for their fourth World Cup title.


Romário, now a Senator representing Rio de Janeiro and president of América-RJ soccer team, shared his thoughts on the final. He mentioned not fearing a loss during the match. "Italy had two great moments to score... but Taffarel [Brazil's goalkeeper] was there holding them back," he said.


In an interview with SBT, Romário discussed Brazil's journey to victory under coach Carlos Alberto Parreira and technical coordinator Zagallo. He was added to the team at the last minute. The former player recalled that facing the United States on 4th July was particularly challenging due to it being Independence Day.


Romário also reminisced about Brazil's first game against Russia, describing it as filled with expectations and anxiety. He called it "very important" for the team. When asked when he felt Brazil would be champions, he said he thought so when they travelled to the U.S. for the event.


Key Moments and Challenges


The Brazilian Football Confederation noted that before this victory, Brazil had won World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970. Italy had previously been champions in 1934, 1938, and 1982.

Romário highlighted that some players knew it might be their last chance to become world champions. "Some of them were holdovers from the previous World Cup... we made mistakes in 1990," he added.

"In particular, I was in great shape. I wanted to play football and play in the World Cup. I was happy," Romário further added.


Final Match Details


The final match saw Italy missing key opportunities with Massaro and Donadoni or Baggio failing to score due to Taffarel's saves. Brazil practised penalties extensively; however, Romário claimed he did not train for penalties but decided to take one during the final moment.


"I never trained penalties... When it was time for the penalty... I raised my finger and said: 'Coach, I'm going to do it'," Romário stated.

Romário successfully scored his penalty, contributing significantly to Brazil's victory after Roberto Baggio missed his shot by kicking over Taffarel's crossbar.


A Landmark Victory


This triumph on 17th July 1994 led to massive celebrations across Brazil. According to the Brazilian Football Confederation, this day is remembered as a landmark date for both Brazilian and global football history.