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15 Most Unforgettable Controversies in European Championship History

1968 Italy vs. USSR Coin Toss Decider


Event Background and Details:
1968 European Championship semi-final, Italy versus USSR, ended in a 0-0 draw after regular and extra time. Since there was no penalty shootout system back then, the match was decided by a coin toss. Italy won the toss and eventually claimed the championship. This unusual method for deciding such an important match has remained a controversial and memorable moment in football history.

Reactions and Commentary:
Fans had mixed feelings: “Looks like Italy had both football skills and coin-toss luck that year!” Media quipped, “A match decided by a coin? That’s the most absurd way to conclude such a crucial game.” Veteran players remarked, “It’s unfair to decide such an important match by chance; football should be about skill, not luck.” The coin toss decision has since become a legendary anecdote.

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