Like previous iterations of the biggest soccer tournament on the planet, the 2010 FIFA World Cup was an event anticipated by sporting and betting fans around the world. Host nation South Africa may have encountered several issues leading up to the event but everything turned out a success. With roughly three months to go before the World Cup in Qatar, let’s take a look at the most memorable moments from the 2010 edition of the World Cup.

Looking Back At 2010 FIFA World Cup

READ MORE: 2014 FIFA World Cup Flashback

Spain snaps World Cup drought

The highly-regarded European international soccer team never won a World Cup title before 2010. The nation always had a reputation for bringing forth top-flight players but had always been constant underachievers on the big stage. However, their dominant performance in the 2008 European Championship motivated the side leading up to the 19th World Cup.

Their rise to prestige in world soccer was cemented when Andres Iniesta scored a late 116th-minute goal against the Netherlands, breaking their dry spell. Furthermore, The Red Fury delivered as favorites to win the tournament. In 2022, Spain joins the World Cup as +350 favorites to reach the final.

Goal-line technology controversy

On June 27, 2010, England challenged a powerful German squad. The latter led the game by two goals in the first half before Mathew Upson hit one back to cut the deficit to a goal. Before the 45th minute, Frank Lampard hit a rocket of a shot towards goal that Neuer failed to handle. It hit the crossbar and crossed the line before bouncing back out. The goal wasn’t awarded, while England exited the Round of 16, losing the match 4-1.

Questions loomed after and left The Three Lions wondering how the game could have transpired if they leveled the scoreline. That incident fast-tracked the goal-line technology and was used in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Suarez follows Diego Maradona’s footsteps

The quarter-final clash between Uruguay and Ghana was nothing short of incredible. Of course, these games typically come with questionable moments. With tensions rising between both sides, Ghana won a game-changing corner kick. The corner resulted in a header on target courtesy of Dominic Aliyah. It was evident that he beat the goalkeeper, but star striker Luiz Suarez pulled off a two-handed save that kept the ball out. He got himself sent off shortly before Ghana was awarded a penalty. Asamoah failed to convert the spot kick and Uruguay eventually won the match, beating the African team 4-2 on penalties.

The song of South Africa

Before the 2009 Confederations Cup and the 2010 World Cup, no one knew about vuvuzelas. But shortly after, everyone, both soccer, and casual viewers had an opinion on them. Some saw them as a nod to the host’s culture and provide a traditional atmosphere, while others found it to be a crucial distraction. Players were particularly vocal about the long plastic horns, with Lionel Messi saying that it obstructed player communication. Nevertheless, the unique nature of the vuvuzela added to the charm of the world championship.

Slovakia sends defending world champs home

The Italians won their fourth World Cup title in 2006 and entered the tournament as defending champions. They had a match to remember against France, which saw one of the most shocking moments in tournament history. It was a relatively easy group for the European giants with New Zealand, Paraguay, and Slovakia–two of which were making their World Cup debut. Italy only managed draws against the first two. However, the Slovakians showed unparalleled determination and managed a 3-2 victory to send Italy home early.

Where to Bet on the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Bitcoin

Adding to the thrill of league soccer, Nitrobetting keeps the action going with the latest 2022 FIFA World Cup odds. We house early futures odds for the winner, with more game odds as the tournament draws closer.

This is just one of the many sports betting guides that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more 2022 FIFA World Cup previews and articles, and don’t forget to check out the latest soccer betting odds on the sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.