23 May 2012 was an historic day before it even began, as it was the first time that two former FIFA eWorld Cup champions were facing off in a final. The 2009 king Bruce Grannec was taking on Alfonso Ramos, who had lifted the trophy a year before him. As was to be expected, it was an incredibly tough contest between these two heavyweights, and it turned out to be one of the tightest deciders in eFootball history. It was goalless at the end of regulation and also extra-time, with Ramos missing a gilt-edged chance to seal it just before the final whistle. Nevertheless, he got the better of his opponent in a nerve-jangling penalty shootout to win the ultimate prize for the second time.

Back in 2008, the Spaniard won his – and his country’s – maiden eFootball world champion title in Berlin against USA’s Michael Ribeiro. His second victory saw him write a new chapter in the history books and made him one of the most successful players of all time. Indeed, Grannec – in 2009 and 2013 – is the only other person to have lifted the trophy twice.

He then fell victim of the so-called 'Curse of Champions' in the 2013 Grand Final, when he was knocked out in the group phase, before making his comeback on to the biggest of stages at the FIFA eNations Cup 2019 as coach of the Spain national eFootball team. With Ramos at the helm, the Spaniards finished the tournament in eighth place, turning over a few highly-fancied nations along the way.

Just two players have managed to win the world title more than once. Will we see a third this year with 'Msdossary' becoming the first player to successfully defend his crown? Or will the 'Curse of Champions' strike again?