Germany

Why this one matters.

“Four years after Maradona had torn their hearts out in Mexico, West Germany returned to the World Cup final in Rome and this time there would be no late twist. It was 8 July 1990 at the Stadio Olimpico, a repeat of the 1986 title decider against Argentina, and Franz Beckenbauer's machine-like side ground the holders down. Rudi Völler, thrusting into the box with five minutes left, was fouled by Roberto Sensini; Andreas Brehme — the Inter Milan full-back with the cultured left foot — drove the resulting penalty past Sergio Goycochea in the 85th minute, and West Germany held on for a 1-0 victory. Captain Lothar Matthäus, the driving midfielder who would be crowned Ballon d'Or winner later that year, lifted the trophy as Die Nationalmacht claimed their third world crown, joining Brazil and Italy at the summit; Beckenbauer became only the second man, after Mário Zagallo, to win the World Cup both as captain (1974) and as coach. It would also prove the last trophy of a divided Germany — reunification came just months later. Panini's Champions insert captures Matthäus raising the trophy on the ultra-short Gold Power Prizm, limited to five copies worldwide; this 02/5 example is a flawless PSA GEM MT 10, a perfect-grade relic of German football's disciplined, relentless finest hour.”