June 30 features FIFA World Cup drama, led by Brazil’s 2002 Final triumph and one of the greatest knockout-round matches ever played, plus a landmark no-hitter from one of baseball’s greatest pitchers.
Featured Events
Ronaldo Completes His Redemption as Brazil Wins the World Cup (2002)
Ronaldo scored twice in the second half as Brazil defeated Germany 2-0 in the World Cup Final at Yokohama, Japan. After the mystery surrounding his seizure before the 1998 Final in Paris, Ronaldo’s two-goal performance completed one of sport’s great redemption stories. He opened the scoring in the 67th minute after Oliver Kahn fumbled a Rivaldo shot, then sealed it in the 79th. Brazil claimed a record fifth World Cup title.
Mbappe Announces Himself as France Eliminates Argentina (2018)
Kylian Mbappe became the first teenager since Pele in 1958 to score twice in a World Cup match as France beat Argentina 4-3 in a breathtaking Round of 16 clash in Kazan, Russia. The 19-year-old’s explosive pace shredded Argentina’s defense as the match swung wildly. Benjamin Pavard’s curling half-volley from distance leveled the score at 2-2 before Mbappe took over. Antoine Griezmann and Mbappe (twice) completed France’s tally in a match widely considered one of the greatest in World Cup history.
Sandy Koufax Throws His First Career No-Hitter (1962)
Sandy Koufax no-hit the New York Mets 5-0 at Dodger Stadium, striking out 13 batters in the first of what would become four career no-hitters. The 26-year-old left-hander was masterful, walking five but overpowering Mets hitters throughout. The performance signaled the beginning of Koufax’s transformation from a talented but inconsistent pitcher into the most dominant arm in baseball. He would throw no-hitters in four consecutive seasons, culminating in his perfect game against the Cubs in 1965.
Germany Outlasts Argentina on Penalties in World Cup Quarterfinal (2006)
Germany defeated Argentina 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in a tense World Cup quarterfinal at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Miroslav Klose equalized in the 80th minute after Roberto Ayala had headed Argentina in front. German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann saved penalties from Ayala and Esteban Cambiasso, aided by a now-famous notecard listing each Argentine player’s tendencies. Germany advanced to the semifinals of a tournament they were hosting.
Additional Notable Events
- 1908: Cy Young throws his third career no-hitter at age 41, blanking the New York Highlanders 8-0 for the Boston Americans
- 2014: Germany survives a tense World Cup Round of 16 match against Algeria, winning 2-1 in extra time after Andre Schurrle and Mesut Ozil score late
- 2004: Portugal defeats the Netherlands 2-1 in the Euro 2004 semifinal, with Cristiano Ronaldo heading home the opening goal
- 1990: Salvatore Schillaci scores the only goal as host nation Italy beats the Republic of Ireland 1-0 in the World Cup quarterfinal in Rome