World Cup: 1982
There are 24 teams in the
1982 World Cup in Spain. For this tournament there are
two group stages, semi finals and a final.
The new format encourages defensive tactics. There are 16
draws in the group stages, seven of them 0-0. There are
also eight 1-0 victories.
But there are also two classic games: Brazil against Italy
in the Second
Round and the Semi Final between West Germany and
France
England qualify for the first time since 1970. They are one
of the pre-tournament favourites.
Northern Ireland produce the biggest surprise of the early
games. They beat the host country Spain and qualify for the
second round.
Brazil
Brazil have their best team
since 1970 and are the favourites to win the competition.
They win all their first round games and score some great
goals.
Their star is Zico. He has scored some 800 goals in first
class soccer - almost a goal a game. For Brazil his record
is 77 goals in 92 games.
Another favourite, England, also go out early. They draw
both their second round games.
