Quick Answer: Some of the most famous coin flips in sports history include: the 1954 FIFA World Cup where a coin flip sent Spain over Turkey; the 1882 coin flip that named Portland, Oregon (unrelated to sports but famous); and multiple NFL tiebreaker situations decided by coin flip.
FIFA World Cup: Coin Flip Tiebreakers
Before goal difference rules were introduced, FIFA World Cup ties were broken by coin flip. Two of the most famous examples: In 1954, Spain and Turkey both finished their group with identical records. A coin flip sent Spain through to the next round. In 1962, a similar situation between Italy and the Soviet Union was also decided by coin flip. These incidents contributed to FIFA's decision to abandon the coin flip in favor of goal difference and then penalty shootouts for subsequent tournaments.
Cricket: The Coin Toss as Strategy
Cricket captains who have won historically significant tosses have used them to great tactical effect. In pitches that deteriorate over 5 days, knowing whether to bat first or second can be as important as team selection. Famous captains have built reputations largely on their ability to read a pitch and use the toss win correctly.
More Famous Coin Flip Moments
- 1968 European Championship: Italy vs Soviet Union, played to a 0-0 draw over two games. A coin flip at UEFA headquarters in Rome advanced Italy to the final (which they won)
- 2002 FIFA World Cup qualifying: Several Asian qualifiers were decided by lot and coin flip procedures
- NFL playoff tiebreakers: Multiple division titles over NFL history have been determined by coin flip when teams finished equal on all tiebreaker criteria