1990 FIFA World Cup — Italy.
Updated June 20, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial · ● Live Last updated: 2026-06-21T02:18:50Z
Direct answer
The 1990 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Italy (8 June – 8 July 1990) with 24 teams. Champion: West Germany. The final was West Germany 1–0 Argentina at Stadio Olimpico, Rome. Top scorer: Salvatore Schillaci (6).
The story of 1990
A defensive, low-scoring tournament settled by an Andreas Brehme penalty — the last World Cup won by West Germany before reunification. Two Argentina players were sent off in the final. Cameroon's run to the quarterfinals, led by 38-year-old Roger Milla, captured the world. England's semifinal shootout heartbreak and "Nessun Dorma" defined the era.
Edition facts
| Host | Italy |
| Dates | 8 June – 8 July 1990 |
| Teams | 24 |
| Format | Groups → knockout |
| Champion | West Germany |
| Runner-up | Argentina |
| Final | West Germany 1–0 Argentina |
| Final venue | Stadio Olimpico, Rome |
| Third place | Italy |
| Top scorer | Salvatore Schillaci (6) |
| Best player (Golden Ball) | Schillaci |
| Official mascot | Ciao |
| Official ball | Etrusco Unico |
| Total attendance | 2,517,348 |
| Total goals | 115 |
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