The turn of the Millenium saw a seismic shift for the home of English football.
Among many famous matches, the stadium had hosted:
- 1923 – The ‘White Horse’ Cup Final, the first final to be played at the then, new stadium.
- 1953 – Stanley Matthews in his pomp, in an FA Cup Final that became known as The Matthews Final.
- 1953 – Was also the year that saw England humbled 3-6 by the Mighty Magyars, led by Ferenc Puskas.
- 1966 – England’s greatest moment as they lifted the Jules Rimet trophy after defeating West Germany 4-2 in the World Cup Final.
- 1996 – The stadium hosted its last major tournament as Germany lifted the European Championship trophy, with England losing a dramatic penalty shootout in the semi-final to the eventual winners.
Wembley Stadium was known around the world as the home of football and held a special place in the hearts of many football fans from around the world.
The famous Twin Towers were demolished along with the rest of the stadium and made way for the new Wembley and its now equally famous illuminated arch that dominates the night sky when lit up.
The last game to be played at the famous old stadium saw an incongruous 0-1 defeat to England’s old rivals Germany, on the 7th October 2000. Manager, Kevin Keegan resigned immediately after the game.
Wembley Stadium was demolished in 2003 and future cup finals were played in Cardiff’s Millenium Stadium, while England international games were played around different club grounds in England.
The new Wembley Stadium was unveiled in 2007 on the same site as the old ground.