The FIFA World Cup final first went to a penalty shootout in 1994, when Brazil defeated Italy in Pasadena, California.
The final at the Rose Bowl finished 0–0 after 90 minutes and extra time, making it the first scoreless final in World Cup history. Brazil won the shootout 3–2. Roberto Baggio, Italy’s leading star, sent the decisive fifth Italian penalty over the crossbar, allowing Brazil to claim the trophy.
Brazil’s victory brought its total to four World Cup championships and made coach Carlos Alberto Parreira a champion. The match was also notable because Brazil captain Dunga converted his penalty and lifted the trophy after a tense contest between two of the tournament’s traditional powers.
Earlier World Cup finals had been decided in regulation time or extra time. The 1982, 1986, and 1990 finals all produced winners before a shootout was required. A penalty shootout had occurred in earlier knockout-stage matches, but 1994 was the first time it decided the championship match itself.