6 Historic Games You’ll Wish You Had a Ticket Stub From

Sports have a way of creating moments that live on long after the final whistle. Some games become iconic, not just for the plays on the field, but for the memories they spark. Fans who were lucky enough to witness these events firsthand hold onto their tickets as cherished mementos. These are the kinds of games that make you wish you had been there. Let’s take a look at a few games that defined the course of sports history.

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The Miracle on Ice – 1980 Winter Olympics, USA vs. Soviet Union

The 1980 Winter Olympics saw one of the most shocking upsets in sports history when the United States hockey team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union. The game, which took place in Lake Placid, New York, became known as the “Miracle on Ice” after Team USA, made up mostly of amateur players, managed to pull off the unthinkable. With the Soviet team dominating world hockey for years, this victory was seen as a symbol of the Cold War’s tensions. It remains one of the most iconic games in Olympic history.

The game’s significance goes beyond just the win. It was a moment that united a nation, as the underdog American team defied expectations and captured the hearts of millions. The final score of 4-3 secured USA’s place in history. To have a ticket stub from this event is to hold a piece of sports and global history.

Game 7 – 2016 NBA Finals, Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors

In 2016, the Cleveland Cavaliers made an incredible comeback in the NBA Finals to defeat the Golden State Warriors in a historic Game 7. The Warriors, who had set a regular-season record with 73 wins, were favorites to win the series. But the Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, turned the tide in the final moments, with LeBron’s famous block and Kyrie Irving’s clutch 3-pointer. The Cavaliers won 93-89, securing the franchise’s first-ever NBA Championship.

This game was a turning point in NBA history, marking LeBron James’ ascent to the status of an all-time great. His performance in Game 7, alongside his leadership throughout the series, helped change the course of the NBA. A ticket stub from this game would be a symbol of one of the most thrilling Finals in basketball history.

The “Hand of God” – 1986 FIFA World Cup, Argentina vs. England

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and England is one of the most controversial moments in soccer history. In the 51st minute, Maradona used his left hand to punch the ball into the net, and the referees allowed the goal to stand despite protests. Just minutes later, Maradona scored what would be called the “Goal of the Century,” dribbling past five English players to score. Argentina won 2-1 and advanced to the semifinals, eventually winning the tournament.

Maradona’s controversial actions on the field and his unmatched skills made this game legendary. The incident, filled with drama and excitement, became a key moment in World Cup lore. A ticket stub from this game represents a piece of one of the most talked-about games in football history.

The 1966 World Cup Final – England vs. West Germany

The 1966 FIFA World Cup Final between England and West Germany is widely regarded as one of the best matches in World Cup history. Held at Wembley Stadium in London, England triumphed 4-2 after extra time to win their first and only World Cup title. Geoff Hurst famously scored a hat-trick, with one of the goals being one of the most controversial in history, as the ball hit the crossbar and was deemed to have crossed the line. England’s victory in this game cemented their place in football history.

The 1966 final is remembered for its drama, with the game going into extra time, and the thrilling final moments. Hurst’s performance remains a benchmark for English football, and the victory continues to resonate with fans around the world. A ticket stub from this historic final represents a moment when football history was made, marking England’s only World Cup win.

The “Immaculate Reception” – 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff, Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Oakland Raiders

The “Immaculate Reception” is one of the most famous plays in NFL history, occurring during the 1972 AFC Divisional Playoff between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders. With the Steelers trailing 7-6 and only 22 seconds remaining, quarterback Terry Bradshaw’s pass was deflected by a Raider defender and bounced into the hands of Franco Harris, who ran it into the end zone for a 60-yard touchdown. The play is shrouded in controversy, as there was debate about whether Harris caught the ball legally.

This miraculous play is often cited as the beginning of Pittsburgh’s dynasty in the NFL. The “Immaculate Reception” remains a symbol of determination and good fortune, with the play still talked about by fans and analysts alike. A ticket stub from this game would be a reminder of one of the most electrifying moments in sports history.

Game 6 – 1986 World Series, New York Mets vs. Boston Red Sox

Game 6 of the 1986 World Series is one of the most dramatic and unforgettable games in baseball history. The New York Mets faced the Boston Red Sox in a game that was filled with incredible tension and high stakes. With the Mets trailing by two runs in the bottom of the 10th inning, they managed to tie the game, and then, with two outs, a ground ball rolled through Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner’s legs, allowing the Mets to win. This unexpected error helped the Mets clinch their first World Series title since 1969.

The moment became a symbol of heartbreak for Red Sox fans, but for Mets supporters, it marked a historic and improbable victory. The series itself was full of thrilling moments, but this game, and particularly Buckner’s error, became its defining point.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.