Football’s greatest stories often come from the most unexpected heroes. These 15 players began as benchwarmers, backups, or unknowns—but when the moment came, they stepped up to deliver World Cup glory for their countries. Here are the most unlikely World Cup stars who stole the spotlight on the game’s biggest stage.

1. Mario Götze – Germany 2014

Struggling with injuries and often benched, Götze came on as a substitute in the final and scored the winner in extra time against Argentina.

2. Salvatore Schillaci – Italy 1990

Little-known before the tournament, Schillaci started as a backup but won the Golden Boot with 6 goals, carrying Italy to the semifinals.

3. Benjamin Pavard – France 2018

Not even first choice at the start, Pavard scored a stunning volley vs. Argentina that became the tournament’s goal of the tournament.

4. Roger Milla – Cameroon 1990

At 38, he was expected to retire quietly. Instead, he scored four goals, danced at the corner flag, and helped Cameroon reach the quarterfinals.

5. Landon Donovan – USA 2010

Though established, Donovan was criticized before the tournament. His stoppage-time goal against Algeria became a defining moment in U.S. soccer history.

6. James Rodríguez – Colombia 2014

Considered promising but not a superstar, he scored six goals and won the Golden Boot with jaw-dropping strikes, including his volley vs. Uruguay.

7. Paolo Rossi – Italy 1982

After a ban and injury, Rossi barely made the squad but exploded in the knockout stage, scoring 6 goals and winning the Golden Boot.

8. Hwang Sun-hong – South Korea 2002

At 33, the veteran striker wasn’t expected to feature heavily, but his crucial goals helped South Korea reach the semifinals at home.

9. Oleg Salenko – Russia 1994

Scored 5 goals in one match against Cameroon, setting a World Cup record, despite Russia exiting in the group stage.

10. Gheorghe Hagi – Romania 1994

Already respected but not world-famous, Hagi’s spectacular goals and leadership led Romania to a historic quarterfinal.

11. Maxi Rodríguez – Argentina 2006

Not a superstar, Maxi scored the goal of the tournament with an extra-time volley vs. Mexico in the Round of 16.

12. Siphiwe Tshabalala – South Africa 2010

His thunderous opening goal of the tournament electrified the hosts and gave the world an unforgettable celebration.

13. Jorge Burruchaga – Argentina 1986

With Maradona as the star, Burruchaga was a supporting player who scored the winning goal in the final vs. West Germany.

14. Keylor Navas – Costa Rica 2014

Before the tournament, few knew him outside CONCACAF. His heroics in goal took Costa Rica to the quarterfinals, earning him global recognition.

15. Bafetimbi Gomis – France 2008 Euros (Bonus)

Though not a World Cup, Gomis scored a debut brace off the bench at Euros, earning him cult-hero status in France.

Unlikely World Cup Stars

These stories remind us that the World Cup is as much about unexpected heroes as it is about superstars. When the pressure’s highest, anyone can seize their chance and etch their name into football folklore.