1950
Brazil host the first
World Cup after the Second World War in 1950. Thirteen
countries enter, including British teams for the first
time.
England and Brazil are favourites. England have some great
players, including Tom Finney and Stanley Matthews. The
English FA confidently expect their team to win the
competition.
The tournament format involves two series of group matches.
The first England game is against the tournament outsiders:
the USA.
England team one of the best forwards in the world: Tom
Finney. They expect an easy win.
But on a poor pitch the USA wins 1-0.
Shock Results
The defeat against the US is the biggest upset in the
history of English football.
Many years later Tom Finney says, 'I can't explain it. We
were beaten by a very ordinary team. I'm still embarrassed
about it now!'
Spain, Sweden, Uruguay, and Brazil progress to the Semi
Finals. The two South American teams win their games.
Now the World Cup prepared for the biggest game in its
history.
‘Derby’ Final
World Cup History Quiz
1930 - 1962
