WORLD CUP HISTORY

Spain 1982 saw an increase from 16 to 24 teams, which meant Africa had two qualifiers. Cameroon drew all their games (with Peru, Poland and Italy) and Algeria did even better, beating West Germany and Chile, but were robbed of advancing when Austria and the Germans contrived a result to see both through.

Argentina unveiled a young Diego Maradona, while the Brazilian trio of Zico, Socrates and Dirceu were a marvel to watch.

But Paolo Rossi's hat-trick knocked Brazil out, and the Italian striker kept up his scoring form in the Final as the Azzurri beat West Germany 3-1. Italy's 40-year-old goalkeeper Dino Zoff became the oldest player ever to lift the trophy.

Colombia were designated to host the 1986 finals, but high crime and the interference in football by drug cartels persuaded FIFA to switch venues to Mexico, who themselves overcame an earthquake to put on a great show.

Africa's rise was exemplified by Morocco, who became the first country from the continent to win a group, holding Poland and England to goalless draws and beating Portugal 3-1.

But their dream was ended by the Germans in the second round, with Lothar Matthaus scoring the only goal a minute from time, while Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God' and his mazy dribble put paid to England in the quarterfinals.

The Final, between Argentina and West Germany, was a classic. Argentina were two up with 17 minutes to go, but Germany scored twice in quick succession to equalise. Maradona had the final say, however, releasing a perfect pass to Jorge Burruchaga, who ran half the length of the field to score the winner.

Marco tradelli 1982 world cup

WORLD CUP HISTORY;1962-1966

England captain Bobby Moore is hoisted by his teammates after an incredible 4-2 extra-time win over West Germany in the 1966 Final at Wembley

IFA were brave to let impoverished Chile be host in 1962 as the country was devastated by an earthquake. Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria and Tunisia all took part in qualifying, with Morocco winning through to a play-off.

With the finals in sight, they lost to Spain, home and away, both by 1-0. Brazil retained much of the 1958 team, and though Pelé limped out early, they beat England 3-1 in the quarterfinal, Chile 4-2 in the semis and the Czechs 3-1 in the Final.

England 1966 signalled the arrival of football as a truly global game, with 600-million watching the tournament on television or listening on radio.

African and Asian sides withdrew in protest at being allocated only one spot, but the star of the show was an African. Eusebio, born in Mozambique, inspired Portugal to third place.

Brazil had only Pelé and Garrincha left from their victorious 1962 team and did not get through the first round. But the biggest shock of all was North Korea's elimination of Italy.

England beat Portugal 2-1 and West Germany defeated the USSR by the same margin to set up a thrilling Final. Germany forced extra-time with a disputed goal before Geoff Hurst became the only man to hit a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final as England won 4-2, though his second goal was hotly contested.