Geoff Hurst's ghost goal English striker Geoff Hurst scored a controversial extra-time goal against West Germany in the final match of the 1966 FIFA World Cup. (more) Famous FIFA World Cup Goals: Geoff Hurst’s Ghost Goal Written by Gitanjali Roy Gitanjali Roy is deputy managing editor, Encyclopaedia Britannica. She has over two decades of editorial experience across digital and broadcast media. Gitanjali Roy Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated June 3, 2026 •History Also known as a phantom goal, a ghost goal refers to officiating errors during a football (soccer) match, resulting in either a goal being awarded despite the ball not having crossed the goal line or a legitimate goal being denied. A controversial ghost goal incident occurred at the 1966 FIFA World Cup final between England and West Germany. During extra time English striker Geoff Hurst unleashed a shot that hit the underside of the crossbar,...

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