World Cup Intel: The Craziest Moments In The History Of The Tournament

West Germany Meets East Germany During The Cold War

Photo Credit: Herbert Kronfeld/ullstein bild via Getty Images

West Germany had the distinct honor of hosting the World Cup in 1974 during the Cold War. One of the favorites to win the tournament, it was only fitting they would play East Germany in the first round. Tensions at the match were at an all-time high as East German socialists clashed with the capitalist West Germans.

East Germany scored a late goal to take a 1-0 lead and that stood as the end result. West Germany managed to qualify for the next round and won the tournament. East Germany used the shocking victory as propaganda to show how their “superiority” over their western rivals.