1966: England v Argentina

The start of the great football rivalry between England and Argentina is was the Quarter Final match in 1966. It was a clash between two contrasting football styles.

At that time football was much more physical than now with far more fouls. It was too physical for England manager, Alf Ramsey who infamously called his opponents 'animals'

Argentina were also furious. They had their captain, Rattin, sent off as they lost 1-0 to England. It was not clear why he was sent off - for 'looking' at the referee according to the official report - bt Rattin refused to leave the pitch and the game was stopped for eight minutes. (see below)


In the semi-finals England beat Portugal and West Germany won against the USSR.