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The rivalry, in football culture
Italy famously hold a long-running World Cup edge over Germany, with a series of knockout-round wins in Italian football folklore. Germany's only World Cup defeat by Italy across the modern era was the 2006 semi-final in Dortmund — a result that ended Germany's home tournament dreams and gave Italy the path to their fourth title.
Notable meetings
- 1970 World Cup semi-final — Italy 4-3 West Germany after extra time. Considered by many football historians the greatest World Cup match ever played.
- 1982 World Cup final — Italy 3-1 West Germany in Madrid. Paolo Rossi's golden tournament. Italy's third title.
- 2006 World Cup semi-final — Italy 2-0 Germany in Dortmund (a.e.t.). Grosso. Del Piero. Heartbreak for the host nation.
Kit comparison
Which kit is better — Germany or ?
The football rivalry is one thing. The kit rivalry is another. See the full kit comparison with verdicts, design notes, and direct buy links for both teams.
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