1966

In 1966 the World Cup came to England the first time. In the early rounds there were some shock results. North Korea beat Italy and became the first Asian country to reach the Quarter Finals. In 2002 their neighbours South Korea went one step further and reached the Semi Final.

In the opening game, Brazil beat Bulgaria 2-0. Against Hungary they lost 3-1. Pelé received some very rough treatment. For the second successive tournament he ended his World Cup early.

Eusebio

Portugal were the best team of the early rounds. Benfica star, Eusebio, played brilliantly. In the quarterfinal Portugal played the surprise team of the tournament, North Korea. For short highlights of this incredible game (with English commentary) go here

Europe v South America

Two of the quarterfinals were between European and South American countries. They were both very controversial.

Uruguay had two players sent off and lost 4-0 to West Germany. Argentina had their captain, Rattin, sent off as they lost 1-0 to England. - 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.