Hosts Spain did not go previous the second spherical and confronted allegations of favouritism from the officers.
Host: Spain
Groups: 24
Format: Group stage, second spherical, third-place playoff, ultimate
Matches: 52
Targets: 146
Winner: Italy
Runners-up: West Germany
Golden boot: Paolo Rossi (Italy)
Background
Spain hosted its first World Cup that befell throughout 14 cities and 17 stadiums, welcoming 24 nations – the primary time the quantity was elevated from 16.
Whereas Argentina had been using on their success on dwelling soil 4 years earlier, and the expertise of their younger star Diego Maradona, they did not go previous the second group stage.
In the meantime, Brazil placed on a memorable show of attacking soccer, led by stars similar to Zico, Falcao and Socrates. Nevertheless, they may not qualify for the semi-finals after shedding their final match in opposition to eventual champions Italy.
Algeria, enjoying of their first World Cup, produced one of many greatest upsets within the event’s historical past once they beat reigning European champions West Germany 2-1. Additionally they beat Chile 3-2, and had an opportunity of qualifying for the second spherical, solely to be denied by a controversial outcome within the final group match the place West Germany beat Austria 1-0.
Realizing {that a} one-goal or two-goal win for West Germany would qualify each the groups, the previous world champions scored within the tenth minute after which each groups confirmed a scarcity of intent to attain for the remainder of the match.
Different event debutants included Cameroon, Honduras, Kuwait and New Zealand.
Hosts Spain did not go previous the second spherical and confronted allegations of favouritism from the officers.
The ultimate between former champions Italy and West Germany noticed Paolo Rossi rating his sixth purpose of the event.
Marco Tardelli and Alessandro Altobelli scored two extra for the Italians. Paul Breitner’s 83rd-minute purpose wouldn’t revive the Germans because the Azzurri secured their third world title.
Highs
Introduction of penalty shootout after additional time in knockout video games.
Maradona’s debut on the World Cup.
Hungary’s 10-1 win over El Salvador equalled the largest margin of victory.
Lows
Allegations of unfair play in opposition to West Germany and Austria in group levels.
British nations confronted the opportunity of withdrawing from the event after the Falklands Conflict with Argentina, however determined to take part.