Editing Roberto Baggio (section)

== International career ==
=== Youth career and senior debut ===
Baggio totalled 27 goals in 56 caps for his [[Italy national football team|national team]] at senior level, making him Italy's fourth-highest all-time goalscorer, tied with [[Alessandro Del Piero|Del Piero]], who managed the tally in 91 appearances.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.figc.it/nazionali/Marcatori?squadra=1&mode=|title=FIGC: Classifica Marcatori|publisher=FIGC|language=it|access-date=29 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731000359/http://www.figc.it/nazionali/Marcatori?squadra=1&mode=|archive-date=31 July 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> At youth level, he was capped for the [[Italy national under-16 football team|Italy U16]] on four occasions in 1984, scoring three goals.<ref name="R.Baggio49-59"/> Under [[Cesare Maldini]], he was called up for one [[Italy national under-21 football team|Italy under-21]] match against [[Switzerland national under-21 football team|Switzerland]] on 16 October 1987, although he was an unused substitute, and strangely failed to make an appearance for the ''azzurrini''.<ref name="Nazionale in cifre - FIGC: Baggio, Roberto"/>

His first senior International call-up was given to him by manager [[Azeglio Vicini]], and he made his first appearance for Italy on 16 November 1988 at age 21 in a 1–0 friendly victory over the [[Netherlands national football team|Netherlands]], assisting Gianluca Vialli's match-winning goal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.museofiorentina.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1780:16-novembre&catid=133:battito-viola&Itemid=217|title=16 Novembre 1988: Roby, dal viola all'azzurro|publisher=MuseoFiorentina.it|language=it|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=12 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312090041/http://www.museofiorentina.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1780:16-novembre&catid=133:battito-viola&Itemid=217|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-b/?action=read&idtmw=900654|title=16 novembre 1988, Roberto Baggio fa il suo esordio in Nazionale|publisher=Tutto Mercato Web.com|language=it|author1=Gaetano Mocciaro|date=16 November 2016|access-date=16 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117070659/http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/serie-b/?action=read&idtmw=900654|url-status=live}}</ref> He scored his first goal for Italy on 22 April 1989, from a free-kick in a 1–1 draw against [[Uruguay national football team|Uruguay]] in an international friendly in [[Verona]].<ref name="FIFA 94"/> Later that year, in his following international appearance in Italy's friendly against [[Bulgaria national football team|Bulgaria]], held in Cesena on 20 September, he scored his first brace for Italy in a 4–0 victory,{{#tag:ref|Baggio's first goal of the match, which came from the penalty spot, was Italy's 500th goal in home matches.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/accadde-oggi/20-settembre-1989-prima-doppietta-di-roberto-baggio-in-nazionale-1291654 |title=20 settembre 1989, prima doppietta di Roberto Baggio in Nazionale |publisher=www.tuttomercatoweb.com |language=it |last1=Mocciaro |first1=Gaetano |date=20 September 2019 |access-date=25 September 2019 |archive-date=25 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190925170045/https://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/accadde-oggi/20-settembre-1989-prima-doppietta-di-roberto-baggio-in-nazionale-1291654 |url-status=live }}</ref>|name="ItalyBrace1989"|group="nb"}} also later assisting [[Andrea Carnevale]]'s goal with a cross from a free kick, and contributing to [[Nikolay Iliev]]'s own goal by setting-up Vialli, whose shot was subsequently deflected by the Bulgarian defender.<ref name="Illuminati">{{cite news |url=http://ricerca.repubblica.it/repubblica/archivio/repubblica/1989/09/21/illuminati-da-baggio.html |title=Illuminati da Baggio |newspaper=La Repubblica |language=it |last1=Brera |first1=Gianni |date=21 September 1989 |access-date=5 September 2018 |archive-date=19 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619190247/http://ricerca.repubblica.it/repubblica/archivio/repubblica/1989/09/21/illuminati-da-baggio.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.archiviolastampa.it/component/option,com_lastampa/task,search/mod,libera/action,viewer/Itemid,3/page,19/articleid,0946_01_1989_0215_0021_12848618/ |title=Gli azzurri nel segno di Baggio |newspaper=La Stampa |pages=21 |language=it |author1=Bruno Perrucca |date=21 September 1989 |access-date=5 September 2018 |archive-date=19 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619213937/http://www.archiviolastampa.it/component/option,com_lastampa/task,search/mod,libera/action,viewer/Itemid,3/page,19/articleid,0946_01_1989_0215_0021_12848618/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://video.gazzetta.it/baggio-prima-doppietta-nazionale-20-settembre-1989/8bab0422-b2b5-11e8-98cd-900568a11a97 |title=Baggio e la prima doppietta in Nazionale: 20 settembre 1989 |newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport |language=it |date=7 September 2018 |access-date=21 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180922063632/https://video.gazzetta.it/baggio-prima-doppietta-nazionale-20-settembre-1989/8bab0422-b2b5-11e8-98cd-900568a11a97 |archive-date=22 September 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== 1990 FIFA World Cup ===
{{Quote box|width=33%|align=right|quote="Baggio. Oh yes, oh yes…oh yes! What a goal by Baggio! That's the goal they've all been waiting for!"|source=—ITV Commentator [[Alan Parry]]'s reaction to Baggio's goal in Italy's group stage match against Czechoslovakia, during the [[1990 FIFA World Cup|1990 World Cup]].<ref name="Fantasista Legends: Roberto Baggio"/>}}
Baggio was called up for his first World Cup tournament in 1990, on home soil. Baggio appeared in five matches, starting in four of them, as Italy manager Azeglio Vicini preferred the more experienced Gianluca Vialli to start against Argentina.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/20-03-2013/vicini-80-notte-magica-la-piu-seguita-piu-divertente-era-mia-italia-92574358605.shtml|title=Gli 80 anni di Azeglio Vicini È il c.t. delle Notti Magiche|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|date=20 March 2013|access-date=26 May 2014|archive-date=23 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130323001832/http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/20-03-2013/vicini-80-notte-magica-la-piu-seguita-piu-divertente-era-mia-italia-92574358605.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio was still able to display his ability throughout the tournament, and Vicini's decision not to use him more frequently was later criticised,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_usa.html|title=Italia-Stati Uniti: 1-0 - Giannini, poi il buio|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=26 June 2014|archive-date=14 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814011547/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_usa.html|url-status=live}}</ref> as Baggio's creative combinations with [[Salvatore Schillaci]] were praised.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Mondiali/21-05-2014/calcio-beffa-maradona-rovina-notti-magiche-80723709462.shtml|title=Calcio, La beffa di Maradona rovina le notti magiche|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|date=21 May 2014|access-date=26 May 2014|archive-date=22 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822094554/http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Mondiali/21-05-2014/calcio-beffa-maradona-rovina-notti-magiche-80723709462.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio scored twice during the tournament, including the "goal of the tournament" in a 2–0 win in his first competitive international fixture, in Italy's final group match against [[Czechoslovakia national football team|Czechoslovakia]]. The goal, which drew him comparisons with Giuseppe Meazza, involved an exchange with [[Giuseppe Giannini]] on the left wing, followed by a dribbling run from midfield, in which Baggio beat several players, wrong-footing the last defender with a [[Dummy (football)|feint]], before putting the ball past the goalkeeper.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_cecoslovacchia.html|title=Italia-Cecoslovacchia: 2-0 - E lo Stadio urlò: è nato il genio che ci farà felici|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=26 June 2014|archive-date=13 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140513064739/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_cecoslovacchia.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This goal was later recognised as the seventh-best goal in World Cup history in a [[FIFA]] poll.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/newscentre/news/newsid=82406/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523231346/http://www.fifa.com/newscentre/news/newsid=82406/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=23 May 2012|title=Diego Maradona goal voted the FIFA World Cup Goal of the Century|publisher=FIFA|date=30 May 2002|access-date=5 August 2012}}</ref>
[[File:Roberto Baggio - Italia '90.jpg|thumb|Baggio with [[Italy national football team|Italy]] in 1990]]
In the round of 16 match against Uruguay, which Italy won 2–0, Baggio started the play which led to Italy's first goal, scored by Schillaci. Baggio also scored a goal from a direct free-kick, but it was disallowed as the referee had awarded an indirect free-kick.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_uruguay.html|title=Italia - Uruguay: 2-0 - Un Serena per amico|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=26 June 2014|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304105415/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_uruguay.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio also had a goal incorrectly ruled offside in the quarter-final against the [[Republic of Ireland national football team|Republic of Ireland]], which Italy won 1–0; Baggio was once again involved in the build-up which led to Schillaci's match winning goal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_eire.html|title=Italia - Eire: 1-0 - Schillaci ci prende gusto|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=26 June 2014|archive-date=6 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606212322/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_eire.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Italy were eliminated on penalties against defending champions [[Argentina national football team|Argentina]] in the semi-finals after a 1–1 draw, although Baggio was able to score his penalty in the shootout.<ref name="Biografia: Roberto Baggio"/> Baggio had come off the bench in the second half for Giannini, and came close to winning the match with a free-kick, but it was saved by [[Sergio Goycochea]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.olimpiazzurra.com/2014/05/storie-mondiali-litalia-e-i-maledetti-rigori/|title=Storie Mondiali: l'Italia e i maledetti rigori|date=17 May 2014|publisher=olimpiazzurra.com|language=it|access-date=19 May 2014|archive-date=19 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519095055/http://www.olimpiazzurra.com/2014/05/storie-mondiali-litalia-e-i-maledetti-rigori/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In the bronze medal match against [[England national football team|England]], Baggio returned to the starting line-up, playing behind Schillaci. He scored Italy's first goal of the match after stealing the ball from [[Peter Shilton]]. [[David Platt (footballer)|David Platt]] momentarily equalised, but with five minutes left on the clock, Baggio set up Schillaci, who was fouled inside the area by [[Paul Parker (footballer)|Paul Parker]]. Although Baggio was the regularly designated penalty taker for his national team, he stepped aside to allow Schillaci to score and capture the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Boot|Golden Shoe]], a gesture which was praised by the Italian media.<ref name="storiedicalcio.altervista.org">{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_inghilterra.html|title=Italia-Inghilterra: 2-1 - L'Italia non s'è persa|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=26 June 2014|archive-date=24 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140624204608/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1990_inghilterra.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.fourfourtwo.com/it/features/schillaci-ricorda-fft-dopo-italia-90-ho-pianto-e-fumato|title=Schillaci ricorda a FFT: "Dopo Italia '90 ho pianto e fumato"|magazine=FourFourTwo|language=it|access-date=19 May 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140516205407/http://www.fourfourtwo.com/it/features/schillaci-ricorda-fft-dopo-italia-90-ho-pianto-e-fumato|archive-date=16 May 2014}}</ref> Baggio assisted a goal by [[Nicola Berti]] in the dying minutes of the match, but it was incorrectly ruled offside.<ref name="storiedicalcio.altervista.org"/> Italy won the match 2–1, capturing the third place medal.<ref name="FIFA 94" />

Following the World Cup, Baggio was not called up often by Vicini for the [[UEFA Euro 1992 qualifying Group 3|Euro 1992 Qualification]] matches, only making three appearances and scoring two goals as Italy failed to qualify for the [[UEFA Euro 1992|tournament]], finishing second in their qualifying group behind the [[Soviet Union national football team|Soviet Union]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/euro2012/history/season=1992/round=218/group=74.html|title=Euro 1992 Qualifying Group 3 - Italy|publisher=[[UEFA]]|access-date=29 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100926142411/http://en.archive.uefa.com/competitions/euro2012/history/season=1992/round=218/group=74.html|archive-date=26 September 2010}}</ref>

=== 1994 FIFA World Cup ===
Under Italy's new manager, Arrigo Sacchi, Baggio was his team's top scorer during their [[1994 FIFA World Cup qualification (UEFA – Group 1)|qualifying campaign for the 1994 World Cup]], scoring five goals of the team's 14 goals in the eight games in also providing seven assists. He helped Italy top their group and qualify for the 1994 World Cup, notably contributing to [[Dino Baggio]]'s winner in the decisive final group match against [[Portugal national football team|Portugal]], which secured Italy's place in the final competition.<ref name="A PASSION BEYOND THE GAME">{{cite news |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-1994-06-15-9406150155-story.html |title=A Passion Beyond the Game |work=The Chicago Tribune |last1=Hersh |first1=Phil |date=15 June 1994 |access-date=19 April 2020 |archive-date=28 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728113952/https://www.chicagotribune.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/febbraio/25/Juve_Sacchi_spazza_Portogallo_co_0_93022512671.shtml|title=la Juve di Sacchi spazza il Portogallo|trans-title=Sacchi's Juve sweeps Portugal away|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|author=Gianfranco Teotino|date=25 February 1993|access-date=12 February 2015|archive-date=9 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109165949/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/febbraio/25/Juve_Sacchi_spazza_Portogallo_co_0_93022512671.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/novembre/18/Baggio_timbra_visto_per_America_co_0_9311185994.shtml|title=Baggio 2 timbra il visto per l' America|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|author1=Giancarlo Padovan|author2=Gianfranco Teotino|date=18 November 1993|access-date=27 April 2015|archive-date=13 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313001144/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/novembre/18/Baggio_timbra_visto_per_America_co_0_9311185994.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> One of his best performances during the qualifying campaign occurred on 14 October 1992 against [[Switzerland national football team|Switzerland]]; Italy were trailing 2–0 at home and Baggio led his team to a 2–2 draw comeback, scoring a goal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1992/ottobre/15/cuore_grande_Italia_no_co_0_9210151028.shtml|title=il cuore e' grande, ma l'Italia no|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=15 October 1992|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=5 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151105140252/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1992/ottobre/15/cuore_grande_Italia_no_co_0_9210151028.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Under Sacchi, Baggio made his first and only starting appearance as [[List of Italy national football team captains|Italy's captain]] in the [[1994 FIFA World Cup qualification|1994 World Cup qualifying]] match in [[Glasgow]] against [[Scotland national football team|Scotland]] on 18 November 1992.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://eu-football.info/_player.php?id=1047|title=Roberto Baggio|publisher=eu-football.info|access-date=16 November 2016|archive-date=5 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405072301/http://eu-football.info/_player.php?id=1047|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.figc.it/nazionali/Capitani?squadra=1&mode=|title=Capitani|trans-title=Captains|website=figc.it|publisher=[[Italian Football Federation]]|language=it|access-date=2 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160503080300/http://www.figc.it/nazionali/Capitani?squadra=1&mode=|archive-date=3 May 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, he was substituted off in the final minutes of the 0–0 draw after injuring his rib.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1992/novembre/20/Baggio_rotto_fuori_mese_co_0_92112013949.shtml|title=Baggio rotto, fuori un mese|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=20 November 1992|access-date=2 May 2014|archive-date=22 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222144847/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1992/novembre/20/Baggio_rotto_fuori_mese_co_0_92112013949.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1995/luglio/04/Qui_Milan_Baggio_proprio_nostro_co_0_9507042399.shtml|title=Qui Milan: " Baggio e' proprio nostro "|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=4 July 1995|access-date=2 May 2014|archive-date=12 March 2014|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140312173751/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1995/luglio/04/Qui_Milan_Baggio_proprio_nostro_co_0_9507042399.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

Despite a series of injuries prior to the tournament,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/ottobre/11/sta_male_anche_Baggio_Roberto_co_0_9310113855.shtml|title=Sta male anche Baggio Roberto giocherà ma ha una tendinite. Allarme per Eranio|work=Il Corriere della Sera|author=Fabio Monti|language=it|date=11 October 1993|access-date=11 March 2014|archive-date=7 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407073431/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1993/ottobre/11/sta_male_anche_Baggio_Roberto_co_0_9310113855.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio was expected to be one of the stars of the 1994 World Cup, entering the competition as the reigning Ballon d'Or winner and FIFA World Player of the Year, and at the peak of his career; after a lacklustre start, he led his team to the final with three match winning performances in the knockout rounds, wearing the number 10 shirt, and scoring five goals in the process.<ref name="FIFA 94" /><ref name="Leggende Azzurre: Roberto Baggio">Leggende Azzurre: Roberto Baggio</ref><ref name="Il Fantasista, l'Incompreso">{{cite web|url=http://www.assoallenatori.it/aiacweb.nsf/WebviewAllenatorebyNumero/fd813c4c32c13907c1256f20004b5032|title=Il Fantasista, l'Incompreso|website=assoallenatori.it|language=it|author=Pietro Cesaro|access-date=16 May 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100621060717/http://www.assoallenatori.it/aiacweb.nsf/WebviewAllenatorebyNumero/fd813c4c32c13907c1256f20004b5032|archive-date=21 June 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/30/dilemma_Baggio_dito_Effenberg_co_0_94063014070.shtml|title=Il dilemma Baggio e il dito di Effenberg|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|author=Gianfranco Teotino|language=it|date=30 June 1994|access-date=2 March 2014|archive-date=7 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407073658/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/30/dilemma_Baggio_dito_Effenberg_co_0_94063014070.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In a disappointing first match against Republic of Ireland at [[Giants Stadium]], [[New Jersey]], Italy were defeated 1–0.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/18/Baggio_parte_con_piede_sinistro_co_0_94061815863.shtml|title=Baggio parte con il piede sinistro|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=18 June 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=18 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118163702/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/18/Baggio_parte_con_piede_sinistro_co_0_94061815863.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/22/Sacchi_ordina_Baggio_alzati_corri_co_0_94062213738.shtml|title=Sacchi ordina: Baggio, alzati e corri|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|author=Giancarlo Padovan|language=it|date=22 June 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=18 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118162724/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/22/Sacchi_ordina_Baggio_alzati_corri_co_0_94062213738.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In the second match against [[Norway national football team|Norway]], he appeared more inspired; however, Italy goalkeeper [[Gianluca Pagliuca]] was sent off for handling the ball outside the area. [[Luca Marchegiani]] was brought in to replace him, and Arrigo Sacchi decided to sacrifice Baggio in what produced an outcry amidst the fans. Baggio later stated that Sacchi was "crazy".<ref name="Biografia: Roberto Baggio"/> Italy won the match 1–0.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_norvegia.html|title=Italia-Norvegia, Coppa del Mondo USA 1994 - 1-0|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-date=21 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621051027/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_norvegia.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Italy continued to disappoint, as their final group match ended in a 1–1 draw against [[Mexico national football team|Mexico]], and he again failed to influence the result.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/30/basta_processi_Baggio_Sacchi_compagni_co_8_940630454.shtml|title=" basta processi a Baggio". Sacchi e i compagni lo difendono|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=30 June 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=18 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118165433/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/giugno/30/basta_processi_Baggio_Sacchi_compagni_co_8_940630454.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The Italians finished third in their group, drawing much criticism from the press, and only advancing from the first round as the fourth-best third-placed team; Juventus president [[Gianni Agnelli]] famously called Baggio ''un coniglio bagnato'' ("a wet rabbit"), referring to his despondent demeanour, hoping the jab would spur him on to score.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://ricerca.repubblica.it/repubblica/archivio/repubblica/1994/07/01/baggio-coniglio-bagnato.html|title=Baggio Coniglio Bagnato|newspaper=La Repubblica|language=it|date=1 July 1994|access-date=14 September 2014|archive-date=28 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128115527/http://ricerca.repubblica.it/repubblica/archivio/repubblica/1994/07/01/baggio-coniglio-bagnato.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

After under-performing during the group stage, Baggio refound his form in the knockout stages, where he scored five memorable goals. He scored two in the [[1994 FIFA World Cup#Round of 16|round of 16]], helping a ten-man Italy defeat [[Nigeria national football team|Nigeria]] 2–1 at [[Foxboro Stadium]] in [[Boston]], after trailing for most of the match. He scored his first goal of the match with two minutes left on the clock, after receiving ball at the edge of the area from [[Roberto Mussi]]. He then went on to score the winning goal from a penalty in extra time after setting up [[Antonio Benarrivo]] with a lobbed pass, who was then fouled in the penalty area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_nigeria.html|title=Nigeria-Italia, Coppa del Mondo USA 1994 - 1-2|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120602073720/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_nigeria.html|archive-date=2 June 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/06/all_ultimo_respiro_Baggio_trovo_co_0_9407062653.shtml|title=all' ultimo respiro Baggio trovo' se stesso|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=6 July 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=7 July 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707003722/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/06/all_ultimo_respiro_Baggio_trovo_co_0_9407062653.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

Baggio scored another match-winning goal in the quarter-finals to defeat [[Spain men's national football team|Spain]] 2–1 with three minutes remaining. After receiving the ball from [[Giuseppe Signori]], he dribbled past the Spanish goalkeeper [[Andoni Zubizarreta]], scoring off-balance from a tight angle. He was also involved in the build-up which led to Italy's first goal by his unrelated namesake Dino Baggio.<ref name="The Score">{{cite web|url=http://www.the42.ie/roberto-baggio-1994-world-cup-tragedy-1478916-Jun2014/|title=The greatest World Cup tragedies: Roberto Baggio, USA 1994|work=The Score|date=6 June 2014|access-date=6 June 2014|archive-date=1 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150801041605/http://www.the42.ie/roberto-baggio-1994-world-cup-tragedy-1478916-Jun2014/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/10/resurrezione_dell_Arrigo_co_0_9407103435.shtml|title=la resurrezione dell' Arrigo|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=10 July 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=5 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105025231/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/10/resurrezione_dell_Arrigo_co_0_9407103435.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio gave a man of the match performance in the semi-finals; he scored two more goals to beat [[Bulgaria national football team|Bulgaria]] 2–1 at Giants Stadium, leading Italy to the World Cup final for the first time in 12 years. He scored his first goal after beating two players and curling the ball from outside the area into the bottom-right corner. His second was scored with a half volley from a tight angle, assisted by [[Demetrio Albertini]] with a lobbed ball.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_bulgaria.html|title=Italia-Bulgaria, Coppa del Mondo USA 1994 - 2-1|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-date=21 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621002946/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_bulgaria.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/14/Baggio_porta_paradiso_co_8_9407142134.shtml|title=Baggio ci porta in paradiso|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=14 July 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=8 November 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091108053124/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/14/Baggio_porta_paradiso_co_8_9407142134.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

{{Quote box|width=33%|align=left|quote="I knew what I had to do and my concentration was perfect. But I was so tired that I tried to hit the ball too hard."|source=—Baggio on his physical and mental state before taking the penalty in the final.<ref name="FIFA 94">{{cite web|url=https://origin.fifa.com/fifa-tournaments/players-coaches/people=174363/profile.html|title="Divine by moniker, divine by magic".|publisher=FIFA.com.|access-date=1 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200321173319/http://origin.fifa.com/fifa-tournaments/players-coaches/people=174363/profile.html|archive-date=21 March 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}
Baggio was not fully fit for the [[1994 FIFA World Cup Final|final]] against [[Brazil national football team|Brazil]] at the [[Rose Bowl (stadium)|Rose Bowl]] in [[Pasadena, California]], after pulling his hamstring during the semi-final and playing with the aid of a painkiller injection.<ref name="FIFA 94"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/15/resta_filo_Baggio_co_0_940715257.shtml|title=ci resta un filo di Baggio|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=15 July 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=18 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118171712/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/15/resta_filo_Baggio_co_0_940715257.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Has so much ever hung on a hamstring?">{{cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/profile-has-so-much-ever-hung-on-a-hamstring-roberto-baggio-italys-buddhist-footballing-hero-1414123.html|title=Has so much ever hung on a hamstring? - Roberto Baggio, Italy's Footballing Hero|location=London|work=The Independent|date=16 July 1994|access-date=29 June 2012|archive-date=29 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120729090340/http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/profile-has-so-much-ever-hung-on-a-hamstring-roberto-baggio-italys-buddhist-footballing-hero-1414123.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Despite being far less dominant than in previous matches, he still tested Brazilian goalkeeper [[Cláudio Taffarel]] and was able to set up a few chances for his teammates. The match ended 0–0 after extra time; he took Italy's last penalty in the resulting shootout, but he put the decisive spot-kick over the crossbar, which meant the Brazilians won the title, resulting in one of the most upsetting moments in World Cup history,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/18/Baggio_sbaglia_tiro_della_sua_co_0_9407181835.shtml|title=e Baggio sbaglia il tiro della sua vita|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=18 July 1994|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=25 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125150552/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/luglio/18/Baggio_sbaglia_tiro_della_sua_co_0_9407181835.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/2006/ottobre/31/Baggio_McEnroe_Schumi_Come_sbaglia_co_9_061031079.shtml|title=Da Baggio a McEnroe e Schumi Come si sbaglia un punto decisivo|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=31 October 2006|access-date=7 January 2015|archive-date=31 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151031000328/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/2006/ottobre/31/Baggio_McEnroe_Schumi_Come_sbaglia_co_9_061031079.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> and a miss with which his career would frequently become associated.<ref name="World Cup memories: Roberto Baggio, 1994">{{cite news |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/world-cup-memories-roberto-baggio-1994-1.945615 |title=World Cup memories: Roberto Baggio, 1994 |work=CBC Sports |last1=Molinaro |first1=John F. |date=20 May 2010 |access-date=17 April 2020 |archive-date=23 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221123120442/https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/world-cup-memories-roberto-baggio-1994-1.945615 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Immediately after the match, Baggio stated that he was "very disappointed," also noting that "a shock of pain" went through his leg as he kicked. Reportedly, Baggio stood near the goal alone for 8 minutes with his head down after missing the penalty, which has given him the moniker "The Man who Died Standing" <ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/soccer/longterm/aj/1994.htm |title=1994 Final Kick Means World to Brazil |newspaper=The Washington Post |last1=Howard |first1=Johnette |date=18 July 1994 |access-date=17 January 2024 |archive-date=10 February 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020210061918/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/soccer/longterm/aj/1994.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Baggio has since described the infamous miss as the worst moment of his career, stating that it affected him for years, and that he still "dreams" about it to this day.<ref name="The redemption of Roberto Baggio1">{{cite web|url=http://www.worldsoccer.com/blogs/the-redemption-of-roberto-baggio|title=The redemption of Roberto Baggio|publisher=World Soccer|author1=Steven Green|author2=Jamie Rainbow|date=16 November 2013|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=20 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131120211805/http://www.worldsoccer.com/blogs/the-redemption-of-roberto-baggio|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.90min.com/posts/footballers-who-became-defined-by-a-penalty-miss-01e893ts1z3b |title=Footballers Who Became Defined by a Penalty Miss |publisher=90min.com |date=14 May 2020 |access-date=17 January 2024 |archive-date=17 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240117202241/https://www.90min.com/posts/footballers-who-became-defined-by-a-penalty-miss-01e893ts1z3b |url-status=live }}</ref> In his autobiography, when recounting the miss, he later reflected: "Penalties are only missed by those who have the courage to take them."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tuttojuve.com/storia-bianconera/auguri-campione-la-juve-non-ti-ha-dimenticato-16487|title=Auguri Campione: La Juve Non T Ha Dimenticato|publisher=Tutto Juve|language=it|access-date=1 May 2014|archive-date=2 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602201055/http://www.tuttojuve.com/storia-bianconera/auguri-campione-la-juve-non-ti-ha-dimenticato-16487|url-status=live}}</ref> Before him, two other Italians, [[Franco Baresi]] and [[Daniele Massaro]], had already missed penalties.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_brasile.html|title=Italia-Brasile, Coppa del Mondo USA 1994 - 0-1|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-date=21 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120621012626/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1994_brasile.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Having led Italy to the final with his memorable performances, Baggio received the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Ball|Silver Ball]] as the second-best player of the tournament, behind [[Romário]], and also finished tied for second in goals scored throughout the tournament, although he missed out on the [[FIFA World Cup awards#Golden Boot|Bronze Boot]], which went to [[Kennet Andersson]] and Romário.<ref name="Happy birthday"/><ref name="FIFA Awards – World Cup Golden Ball"/> He was also named in the [[FIFA World Cup awards#All-Star Team|World Cup All-Star Team]].<ref name="94WCAll-Star1"/> Baggio finished runner-up for the [[Ballon d'Or]], with 136 points from a possible 245,<ref name="Ballon d'Or 1994">{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/europa-poy94.html|title=European Footballer of the Year ("Ballon d'Or") 1994|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=7 February 2014|archive-date=1 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001010216/https://www.rsssf.org/miscellaneous/europa-poy94.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and third place for the [[FIFA World Player of the Year]] in 1994.<ref name="Leggende Azzurre: Roberto Baggio"/>

Despite Baggio's association with missing the decisive penalty in the 1994 World Cup final shoot-out, former ''[[Telelatino]]'' broadcaster Alf De Blasis stated in 2010 that he believed that Baggio's performance throughout the entire tournament cemented his legacy as a footballer.<ref name="World Cup memories: Roberto Baggio, 1994"/> Reflecting on Baggio's performance at the 1994 World Cup in 2001, Stefano Bozzi of [[BBC Sport]] stated: "At the USA 94 World Cup, [Baggio] single-handedly hauled Italy to the final."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/1644696.stm |title=Baggio's final World Cup fling |publisher=BBC Sport |last1=Bozzi |first1=Stefano |date=8 November 2001 |access-date=17 April 2020 |archive-date=28 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728113955/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/1644696.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2006, the BBC described him as "Italy's best player throughout the [1994] tournament."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/4851230.stm |title=World Cup history - USA 1994 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=4 May 2006 |access-date=17 April 2020 |archive-date=13 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413134707/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2006/4851230.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2017, Emmet Gates instead described Baggio's run-up to the 1994 World Cup final with Italy as "the greatest show of individual excellence since another equally majestic number ten [Maradona] dominated the [[1986 FIFA World Cup|1986 tournament]]."<ref name="The redemption of Roberto Baggio2"/> When summarising Baggio's 1994 World Cup in 2018, Ed Dove of ''[[ESPN FC]]'' stated that "'[t]he Divine Ponytail' had arguably been the outstanding player of the tournament, bailing Italy out on numerous occasions, but his inspirational touch deserted him when it mattered most."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/23439690/world-cup-moments-baggio-heartbreak-1994 |title=World Cup moments - Baggio's heartbreak - 1994 |publisher=ESPN FC |last1=Dove |first1=Ed |date=8 May 2018 |access-date=17 April 2020 |archive-date=28 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200728113952/https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/23439690/world-cup-moments-baggio-heartbreak-1994 |url-status=live }}</ref> His colleague Nick Miller instead stated that "Roberto Baggio was the best player at the 1994 World Cup, dragging Italy to the final virtually on his own."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.espn.in/football/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/1845194/roberto-baggio-skied-penalty-graham-poll-three-card-trick-in-top-world-cup-bloopers |title=Roberto Baggio's skied penalty, Graham Poll's three-card trick in top World Cup bloopers |publisher=ESPN FC |last1=Miller |first1=Nick |newspaper=Espn |date=16 April 2018 |access-date=17 April 2020 |archive-date=6 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806194017/https://www.espn.in/football/fifa-world-cup/4/blog/post/1845194/roberto-baggio-skied-penalty-graham-poll-three-card-trick-in-top-world-cup-bloopers |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Post-World Cup ===
After the 1994 World Cup, Italy head coach Arrigo Sacchi and Baggio infamously fell out. Their relationship deteriorated in September 1994 following a 1–1 draw against [[Slovenia national football team|Slovenia]] in a [[UEFA Euro 1996 qualification|Euro 1996 qualifying match]], where Baggio was benched.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1995/settembre/07/Sacchi_sfoga_Baggio_gela_co_8_9509073327.shtml|title=Sacchi si sfoga, Baggio lo gela|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=7 September 1995|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=29 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151029175614/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1995/settembre/07/Sacchi_sfoga_Baggio_gela_co_8_9509073327.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After a 2–1 defeat to [[Croatia national football team|Croatia]] in a Euro 1996 qualifying match in November, their relationship hit the breaking point, and Baggio, supported by his teammates,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/novembre/17/piccola_Italia_bambola_solo_Croazia_co_0_9411176532.shtml|title=piccola Italia in bambola, e' solo Croazia|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=17 November 1994|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=26 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126034557/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/novembre/17/piccola_Italia_bambola_solo_Croazia_co_0_9411176532.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> asked for the manager's dismissal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/novembre/19/caos_Italia_Baggio_scarica_Sacchi_co_0_9411196136.shtml|title=caos Italia: Baggio scarica Sacchi|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=19 November 1994|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=29 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151029192931/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1994/novembre/19/caos_Italia_Baggio_scarica_Sacchi_co_0_9411196136.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Due to his disagreements with Sacchi, Baggio was called up to the national team less frequently, only making one more substitute appearance in a 1–0 home win against Slovenia in a Euro 1996 qualifier in September 1995. He eventually lost his spot in the squad, missing out on Italy's [[UEFA Euro 1996|Euro 1996]] squad, despite winning the ''scudetto'' that year with Milan. Sacchi justified his decision by stating Baggio was not fully fit,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/596/exclusive/2011/12/02/2782009/i-left-roberto-baggio-out-of-euro-96-because-of-fitness-concerns-|title=I left Roberto Baggio out of Euro '96 because of fitness concerns, not arguments - former Italy coach Arrigo Sacchi|publisher=Goal.com|date=2 December 2011|access-date=31 December 2014|archive-date=2 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302044648/http://www.goal.com/en/news/596/exclusive/2011/12/02/2782009/i-left-roberto-baggio-out-of-euro-96-because-of-fitness-concerns-|url-status=live}}</ref> and that [[Enrico Chiesa]] helped the team more when possession was lost.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1996/maggio/19/Sacchi_appuntamento_Baggio_co_0_9605194880.shtml|title=Sacchi da' un appuntamento a Baggio|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=19 May 1996|access-date=2 May 2014|archive-date=16 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016172924/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1996/maggio/19/Sacchi_appuntamento_Baggio_co_0_9605194880.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Italy were eliminated in the group stage of the competition. Baggio was also excluded from Cesare Maldini's [[Football at the 1996 Summer Olympics|Italian Olympic squad in 1996]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1996/marzo/29/Italia_sogno_olimpico_Baggio_co_0_96032912698.shtml|title=L' Italia ha un sogno olimpico: Baggio|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=29 March 1996|access-date=12 August 2014|archive-date=8 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151108032334/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/1996/marzo/29/Italia_sogno_olimpico_Baggio_co_0_96032912698.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== 1998 FIFA World Cup ===
After a lengthy absence from the national team, Baggio was called up by Cesare Maldini for a [[1998 FIFA World Cup qualification (UEFA)|World Cup qualifying]] match against [[Poland national football team|Poland]] on 30 April 1997, in Naples; Baggio came off the bench and scored a goal in a 3–0 win.<ref name="altervista"/> He was subsequently selected as one of Italy's 22 players for the 1998 World Cup following his performances with Bologna.<ref name="scelte">{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/02_mondiali_calcio_1998.html|title=1998 Francia, Capitolo II: Le scelte di Cesare|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=25 April 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305200328/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/02_mondiali_calcio_1998.html|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref>

{{Quote box|width=33%|align=right|quote="I had the image of my miss from [[1994 FIFA World Cup Final|four years ago]] stuck in my mind. I was stepping up to the penalty spot and I thought to myself: 'Just hit it hard, hit it hard...'|source=—Baggio on his penalty against Chile in the [[1998 FIFA World Cup|1998 World Cup]].<ref name="The redemption of Roberto Baggio1"/>}}
In Italy's opening match of the 1998 World Cup in France, against [[Chile national football team|Chile]], Baggio started alongside Christian Vieri, playing all 90 minutes, as Alessandro Del Piero was still recovering from an injury. Vieri opened the scoring from a Baggio assist, but Chile managed to equalise and take the lead through [[Marcelo Salas]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_chi.htm|title=Cile-Italia, 1998 2-2 - Rai-Sport|website=rai.it|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090704030831/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_chi.htm|archive-date=4 July 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Baggio created several chances, but Italy were unable to equalise. Towards the end of the match, Baggio played a low cross into the box which unintentionally touched Chilean defender [[Ronald Fuentes]]'s hand at the edge of the penalty area, resulting in a fortunate penalty for Italy.<ref name="The redemption of Roberto Baggio2">{{cite news|url=http://inbedwithmaradona.com/journal/2017/2/17/pasadena-to-bordeaux-the-redemption-of-roberto-baggio|title=The redemption of Roberto Baggio|publisher=In Bed With Maradona|author1=Emmet Gates|newspaper=Ibwm|access-date=23 May 2017|archive-date=18 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170718140017/http://inbedwithmaradona.com/journal/2017/2/17/pasadena-to-bordeaux-the-redemption-of-roberto-baggio|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.repubblica.it/online/sport/polem/polem/polem.html?ref=search |title=Quante polemiche per quel rigore |date=12 June 1998 |website=[[la Repubblica]] |language=It |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170601102742/http://www.repubblica.it/online/sport/polem/polem/polem.html?ref=search |archive-date=1 June 2017 |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2017}}</ref> Despite missing the decisive penalty in the 1994 World Cup final shootout, Baggio stepped up to take the penalty, and he scored Italy's equalising goal, becoming the first Italian player to score in three World Cups.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_cile.html|title=Il Cile fa tremare l'Italia: Italia-Cile, 1998 (2-2)|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-date=14 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140814010310/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_cile.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This was the first penalty he had taken for Italy since the 1994 World Cup final miss; Baggio described the goal as "liberating".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blitzquotidiano.it/sport/roberto-baggio-torna-in-nazionale-464763/|title=Roberto Baggio torna in Nazionale|website=blitzquotidiano.it|date=10 July 2010|language=it|access-date=3 September 2014|archive-date=9 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150109090208/http://www.blitzquotidiano.it/sport/roberto-baggio-torna-in-nazionale-464763/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In Italy's 3–0 second group match win over [[Cameroon national football team|Cameroon]], Baggio assisted [[Luigi Di Biagio]]'s opening goal with a cross following a corner; however, he was replaced by Del Piero during the second half after sustaining a minor injury.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_camerun.html|title=Italia-Camerun, 1998 - 3-0|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-date=3 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161103175553/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_camerun.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Baggio scored his second goal of the tournament in Italy's final group match against [[Austria national football team|Austria]], which ended in a 2–1 win to Italy. Baggio came on during the second half, replacing Del Piero, after the crowd had begun to chant his name. He scored the winning goal of the match, after combining with [[Francesco Moriero]] and [[Filippo Inzaghi]], as Italy topped their group. With this goal, he tied Paolo Rossi's record for most goals by an Italian player in the World Cup finals, with nine; this was also his 27th and final goal for Italy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_aut.htm|title=Italia-Austria, 1998 - 2-1|website=rai.it|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090704112212/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_aut.htm|archive-date=4 July 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> He was left on the bench for the round of 16 win over Norway as Italy advanced to the quarter-finals.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_norvegia.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111026110719/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_norvegia.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 October 2011|title=Italia-Norvegia, 1998 (1-0)|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=13 June 2012}}</ref>

In the quarter-final match against eventual champions [[France national football team|France]], Baggio came on as a substitute for Del Piero in the second half, and managed to create some scoring opportunities. The score remained 0–0, and the match went to extra time, although Baggio came the closest to scoring the golden goal, with a volley from a lobbed pass by Albertini, but his shot was put just wide of [[Fabien Barthez]]'s far post.<ref name="top 20"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blitzquotidiano.it/sport/italia-1998-la-traversa-di-di-biagio-del-piero-o-baggio-voto-5-in-simpatia-1879751/|title=Italia 1998: la traversa di Di Biagio. Del Piero o Baggio? Voto 5 in simpatia|website=blitzquotidiano.it|date=3 June 2014|language=it|access-date=19 January 2015|archive-date=28 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128131852/http://www.blitzquotidiano.it/sport/italia-1998-la-traversa-di-di-biagio-del-piero-o-baggio-voto-5-in-simpatia-1879751/|url-status=live}}</ref> The match eventually went to a penalty shootout. Although Baggio converted his penalty Italy's first, the shootout was won by the host nation and Italy was eliminated from a World Cup on penalties for the third consecutive time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_fra.htm|title=Italia-Francia, 1998 0-0 (3-4)|website=rai.it|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|last=Di Gennaro|first=Dario|access-date=13 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616003113/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/eventi/francia98/incontri/ita_fra.htm|archive-date=16 June 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Italy's coach was criticised for starting the recovering Del Piero ahead of Baggio, and for not allowing the two players to play alongside each other.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_francia.html|title=Francia-Italia, world Cup France 98 - 0-0 (4-3)|date=24 February 2016|publisher=Storie di Calcio|language=it|access-date=19 March 2016|archive-date=11 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161111230320/http://www.storiedicalcio.altervista.org/mondiali_1998_italia_francia.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite rumours that the substitutions had created a rivalry between the players, Baggio and Del Piero remain friends. In 2008, Baggio stated that he has great respect for Del Piero, and that there had never been disagreements between them.<ref name="Messi mi entusiasma">{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Primo_Piano/2008/03_Marzo/28/baggiogazza.shtml|title=Baggio: "Messi mi entusiasma"|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|date=28 March 2008|access-date=20 May 2012|archive-date=3 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080403062840/http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Primo_Piano/2008/03_Marzo/28/baggiogazza.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://italy.theoffside.com/serie-a/baggio-speaks-about-calcio.html|title=Baggio Speaks About Calcio|access-date=20 May 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120710143203/http://italy.theoffside.com/serie-a/baggio-speaks-about-calcio.html|archive-date=10 July 2012}}</ref> In turn, Del Piero expressed his admiration for Baggio in 2011.<ref name="delizia">{{cite web|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Squadre/Juventus/14-11-2011/del-piero-gioco-fino-40-anni-803717129549.shtml|title=Del Piero: "Gioco fino a 40 anni" E Agnelli: "Per lui porte aperte"|publisher=La Gazzetta dell Sport|language=it|date=14 November 2011|access-date=20 May 2012|archive-date=22 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222103047/http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Squadre/Juventus/14-11-2011/del-piero-gioco-fino-40-anni-803717129549.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Later career ===
Baggio was initially a regular squad member under [[Dino Zoff]], appearing as a substitute in two [[UEFA Euro 2000 qualifying]] matches, and in a 2–0 win against [[Wales national football team|Wales]] in 1998, setting up a goal for Vieri;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199809/05/35f17a03036fa/|title=Galles-Italia 0-2|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904183042/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199809/05/35f17a03036fa/|archive-date=4 September 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://it.uefa.com/uefaeuro/match/55041--wales-vs-italy/|title=Galles-Italia (0-2)|publisher=[[UEFA]]|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-date=3 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903090425/http://it.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2000/matches/round=1165/match=55041/|url-status=live}}</ref> and in a 1–1 draw against [[Belarus national football team|Belarus]] in 1999.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://it.uefa.com/uefaeuro/match/55050--italy-vs-belarus/|title=Italia-Bielorussia (1-1)|publisher=[[UEFA]]|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-date=3 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903090428/http://it.uefa.com/uefaeuro/season=2000/matches/round=1165/match=55050/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199903/31/37027b6305ff3/|title=Passo falso degli azzurri|website=rai.it|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140904183036/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199903/31/37027b6305ff3/|archive-date=4 September 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Baggio made a starting appearance in a 0–0 friendly draw against Norway in 1999, creating several chances, helping to set-up a goal which was ruled offside, and hitting the post from a free-kick.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199902/10/36c1dcd506ce9/|title=Italia-Norvegia 0-0|website=rai.it|publisher=Rai Sport|language=it|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722072916/http://www2.raisport.rai.it/news/sport/calcio/199902/10/36c1dcd506ce9/|archive-date=22 July 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.italia1910.com/partita.asp?d=10/02/1999|title=Italia-Norvegia: 0-0|publisher=Italia 1910|access-date=29 August 2014|archive-date=3 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140903111557/http://www.italia1910.com/partita.asp?d=10/02/1999|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he was later dropped from the squad after Inter's poor 1998–99 season, and he was not called up for [[UEFA Euro 2000]] due to his limited playing time during the 1999–2000 season, and accusations made against his fitness. Zoff centred his squad around younger offensive players, such as Francesco Totti, Alessandro Del Piero, [[Stefano Fiore]], [[Marco Delvecchio]], Filippo Inzaghi and [[Vincenzo Montella]]. Baggio was voted Italy's ''Player of the Century'' in 2000.<ref name="Baggio, una hola privata">{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Primo_Piano/2007/02_Febbraio/17/fetabaggio.shtml|title=Baggio, una hola privata|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|date=17 February 2007|access-date=6 February 2015|archive-date=6 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150206211349/http://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Primo_Piano/2007/02_Febbraio/17/fetabaggio.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref>

Baggio was controversially excluded from Italy's [[2002 FIFA World Cup|2002 World Cup]] squad by coach Giovanni Trapattoni, who believed him to not have fully recovered from the serious injury he had sustained during the season. Although he was initially keen to include Baggio in the final 23-man list, he ultimately excluded him from the squad; Baggio had made a direct appeal to him prior to the tournament by writing him a letter.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.repubblica.it/online/calcio/baggioscrive/baggioscrive/baggioscrive.html|title=Baggio scrive al Trap "Portami ai Mondiali"|newspaper=La Repubblica|language=it|date=6 May 2002|access-date=6 May 2002|archive-date=13 August 2002|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020813194208/http://www.repubblica.it/online/calcio/baggioscrive/baggioscrive/baggioscrive.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Fans and pundits criticised the omission, as Italy were eliminated by co-hosts [[South Korea national football team|South Korea]] in the round of 16.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://brescia.corriere.it/notizie/sport/16_maggio_19/trapattoni-baggio-moreno-mondiale-corea-53c05998-1dcc-11e6-8d1a-6eb7d9c593f0.shtml |title=Trapattoni: "Nessun rimpianto per Baggio, senza Moreno avremmo vinto il mondiale" |publisher=Il Corriere della Sera |language=it |author1=Luca Bertelli |date=19 May 2016 |access-date=5 September 2018 |archive-date=13 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013174637/http://brescia.corriere.it/notizie/sport/16_maggio_19/trapattoni-baggio-moreno-mondiale-corea-53c05998-1dcc-11e6-8d1a-6eb7d9c593f0.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref>

Many fans hoped to see him play for Italy at [[UEFA Euro 2004|Euro 2004]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/primi_piani/calcio/2004/pp_1.0.362006415.shtml|title=Baggio: "All'Europeo da riserva"|trans-title=Baggio: "At the Euros even as a reserve"|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|author1=Diego Antonelli|date=27 April 2004|access-date=26 April 2015|archive-date=2 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150802121126/http://www.gazzetta.it/primi_piani/calcio/2004/pp_1.0.362006415.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> or with the [[Football at the 2004 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|2004 Olympic]] squad that eventually managed a bronze medal,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.repubblica.it/2004/a/sezioni/sport/calcio/fuoriquota/fuoriquota/fuoriquota.html|title=Olimpiadi, Carraro possibilista Baggio fuori quota con l'Under?|trans-title=Olympics, Carraro possible Baggio over-age player with the Under-21 side?|newspaper=La Repubblica|language=it|date=9 January 2004|access-date=21 April 2015|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924112856/http://www.repubblica.it/2004/a/sezioni/sport/calcio/fuoriquota/fuoriquota/fuoriquota.html|url-status=live}}</ref> but this was not to be the case.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/2003/febbraio/05/Baggio_scherza_sui_dubbi_del_co_0_0302051319.shtml|title=Baggio: Euro 2004?|publisher=Il Corriere della Sera|language=it|date=5 February 2003|access-date=8 July 2012|archive-date=1 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151101095811/http://archiviostorico.corriere.it/2003/febbraio/05/Baggio_scherza_sui_dubbi_del_co_0_0302051319.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he was given an international send-off by Trapattoni at age 37 in a friendly match against Spain on 28 April 2004, in which he wore the number 10 shirt for the final time, as well as the captain's armband for part of the match. Although Baggio entertained the crowd with his creativity and skill, he was unable to score, despite winning a free-kick from which Vieri's equalising goal arose. The match finished 1–1 and Baggio was given a standing ovation after being substituted off for [[Fabrizio Miccoli]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.repubblica.it/2004/d/sezioni/sport/calcio/nazionale/italiaspagna/italiaspagna/italiaspagna.html|title=Baggio, lungo, emozionante addio ma Italia-Spagna è poca cosa|trans-title=Baggio, a long, emotional farewell but Italy-Spain amounts to little|newspaper=La Repubblica|language=it|date=28 April 2004|access-date=19 January 2015|archive-date=28 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150128115229/http://www.repubblica.it/2004/d/sezioni/sport/calcio/nazionale/italiaspagna/italiaspagna/italiaspagna.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This was Baggio's 56th and final match for Italy, and it was the first time an Italian footballer's career had been celebrated this way since Silvio Piola retired.<ref name="Biografia: Roberto Baggio"/>

Baggio is the only Italian player ever to score in three World Cups with nine career World Cup goals, putting him equal with Christian Vieri and [[Paolo Rossi]] as Italy's top World Cup goalscorers.<ref name="Mondial"/><ref name="Italia">{{cite news|url=http://www.gazzetta.it/Speciali/Mondiale_2010/Countdown_1.shtml|title=Italia: Speciale Mondiali|trans-title=Italy: World Cup Special|newspaper=La Gazzetta dello Sport|language=it|access-date=29 June 2012|archive-date=24 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524052125/http://www.gazzetta.it/Speciali/Mondiale_2010/Countdown_1.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite his performances for Italy in the [[1990 FIFA World Cup|1990]], [[1994 FIFA World Cup|1994]], and [[1998 FIFA World Cup|1998 World Cup]]s, he never played for Italy in the [[UEFA European Championship]]s,<ref name=oppression/> and is currently the Italian player with the most caps without playing in a European Championship.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ribecchini|first=Maurizio|date=3 June 2016|title=Calcio, Europei: quanti azzurri non vi hanno mai partecipato! Fra loro tre 'palloni d'oro'|url=https://news.superscommesse.it/calcio/2016/06/calcio-europei-tre-palloni-doro-italiani-non-li-hanno-mai-giocati-200289/|access-date=4 June 2021|website=SuperNews|language=it|archive-date=4 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210604160218/https://news.superscommesse.it/calcio/2016/06/calcio-europei-tre-palloni-doro-italiani-non-li-hanno-mai-giocati-200289/|url-status=live}}</ref>