February 2017 – Football Journey

February 26, 2017February 26, 2017

Group B

Group B. Apart from British football chauvinism and Spanish blind faith, the real assessment favoured only the Germans: the hope that England could somehow start stronger more or less was abandoned in 1980. Spain was not a winning team. Only West Germany was a team capable of improving and may be starting to play something at last. The group was very tough, but… Spain was unlikely winner: if lucky, concentrated, and with some official’s help, they could go ahead. The limits of the team were obvious, especially when it came to attacking – no creativity and no scoring. England… tough, fighting to the end, attacking, but still typical British in approach, lacking tactical diversity, somewhat slower than usual, creatively impoverished, but there was hope that Keegan, Brooking, Wilkins, Francis could prevail in a good day. Only the Germans had potential – having Breitner in midfield, the only midfielder in this group capable of magical passes. If Derwal managed to get the right mixture of players, if Rummenigge find his touch at last, if the team start playing like 1980… after all, it was the same in 1974 and eventually the right combination was worked out. West Germany was seemingly the likelier winner of the group with Spain last, but in the same time three physical, tough, and rather bland squads were perfectly capable of canceling each other out. There was big and nightmarish possibility all matches ending 0-0. And then what? And injuries enforced the scary scenario: Rummenigge and Keegan were under question and their weak performance so far was entirely blamed on the injuries they arrived at the finals with.

England – West Germany. What was expected to be fast, attacking, direct clash of two giants turned out to be an icy game – slow and watchful, both teams really moved like icebergs, waiting for a chancy opening, for tiny mistake of the other side. Neither coach risked some tactical innovation, not even change of players – injured Rummenigge was on the field. Magath was on the bench even when Hansi Muller was so far disappointing. Littbarski was on the bench. Fischer was on the bench. The only change Derwall made was the opposite of what seemingly should have been done: the Germans started the match with 2 strikers. Cautious, defensively-minded approach. Greenwood left Keegan and Brooking out of the starters, which also looked like mistake – perhaps that was the match they could really help. Viv Anderson was also on the bench. Only on the surface Greenwood’s choice looked ‘daring’ – at a closer look, it was clear that he chose starters close to straight-forward English approach. Nothing surprising for the Germans.

And both teams moved icily cool back and forth, every move predictable, every clash predictable, and bored viewers to death. After the match Dettmar Kramer said about his compatriots “I don’t hope this team could improve its game’. The match ended 0-0. It was not like the teams did not want to win… they were just incapable of finding a way to win.

West Germany – Spain. Derwall risked some tactical changes at last, yet, without going rally far. Useless Rummenigge was again a starter. Fischer and Littbarski were starters and Brigel was moved back to midfield. Hansi Muller was entirely out, not even among the reserves, but… Magath was not fielded. Spain was the same as before – really, who was there to replace the starters? The reserves were more or less just copies of the starters, weaker copies. Santillana was back among the starters – may be included too late for producing some positive change.

The opponents run, time run, the dark cloud of the worst scenario was getting darker… the ominous zeroes on the scoreboard. Eventually, the Germans scored in 50th minute, thanks to Littbarski and in the 75th minute Fischer scored a second goal. In the 81st minute Zamora scored for Spain and the worst scenario returned… but all ended 2-1 for West Germany. Spain was out. ‘Luck’ was the word chosen by observers – ‘lucky Germans, unlucky Spaniards’. That was all… neither team deserved a commentary on tactics, style, anything related to playing aspect. Rummenigge and Arconada, the greatest stars of the teams, were singled out for criticism. So obvious were the limitations of the hosts by now, that their elimination provoked no big outcry in Spain – it was clear nothing can be done with a team like that.

England – Spain. The hosts had to play only for their pride. England had to win with 2 goals difference to qualify. Greenwood decided to use 3 forwards, which appeared to be massive innovation for those following the English national team – they played with 2 strikers practically forever. Keegan and Brooking were back at last, kind of – both were listed as reserves.

And once again nothing interesting on the field… it was only painfully clear that England did not have a real playmaker and no matter what was said about the ‘great innovations’ Greenwood introduced, his team was playing the old English direct style, which for years led to nowhere and so was in this match too. Keegan and Brooking were fielded together at last in the 64th minute, only to show how costly coach’s errors and fears could be: they invigorated England, but there was no enough time. 0-0.

West Germany 2 1 1 0 2 1 +1 3

England 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 2

Spain 2 0 1 1 1 2 −1 1

Well, the group finished as expected. Everything was just as expected… except that football suffered. It was time to mock Luis Kubala – before the start of the second round he called the 12 teams ‘the apostels of modern football’. The ‘apostels’ not only did not show anything new and exciting, they rather showed descend and the only word to correctly describe them was ‘boring stiffs’. It applied to more teams, but this group was only that from start to finish. Even the English did not make much noise of the fact that their team exited the championship unbeaten – big deal, if they were no losers, since they were no winners either. If there was some interesting football played – collectively! – by this three teams, it would be only England against France. Some world leaders…

February 25, 2017February 25, 2017

Group A

The second stage of the championship was new, a formula to be tried for the first time: 4 round-robin groups of 3 teams each. Winners going to the semi-finals. All or nothing, for there was no way for scheming and depending on easy game with an outsider. There were quite a few surprises in the fist phase, but they did not disturb the status quo – all teams expected to be favourites reached the second stage. The only surprise was Northern Ireland, going to the second phase at the expense of Yugoslavia. Perhaps only Scotland was the team deserving to be among the last 12, but it was just a general maybe, for, after all, it was expected that either they or USSR will be at the losing end. So far, so good… all pundits have been right for months. What was no so good was the make up of the second stage groups: underperforming and surprise strong play by outsiders left no room for early scheming, resulting for a big division between the new groups – two were iron-strong and two quite weak, compared to the strong ones. The second phase, however, depended on two new factors: injuries and coach’s fears. At first, predictions were trumpeted more or less like that: Belgium, perhaps fighting with USSR, was the likelier winner of Group A. Group B was next to impossible: West Germany may be had a bit of advantage, if they started playing close to the game they showed in 1980. Spain was unlikely to get blatant help by referees against West Germany and England, but home turf and some luck could propel them ahead. Group C was to be a battle between Brazil and Argentina, the Brazilians having the edge. Group D, the other easy group, was most likely to be conquered by France. There were strong teams to fall victims here, but they had nobody, but themselves, to blame for that – Italy, Argentina, and West Germany struggled to merely qualify, so it was too late to cry now.

Group A. Belgium, USSR, and Poland. Poland was the only team here which improved as the first stage matches developed, but it was felt that reaching the second stage was their limit. The Poles opened the group matches against Belgium. Both teams had problems – Poland lost one of its strongest defenders, Jalocha, which was a blow to their weakest line, but it was nothing compered to Belgian problems: they lost Gerets, already out of the championship and sent home, and Pfaff. Injuries… both teams had rather limited options, but Belgium’s losses were heavier. At the end, injuries affected coaches’ decisions – Guy Thys did not dare to use two playmakers in his starting eleven, which resulted in moving back Coulemans to help midfield, at the expense of the striking line. Piechniczek decided differently: he moved Boniek among the strikers, which seemed risky, since Poland lacked first rate playmaker, but had more options for their attacking line. Whether Thys erred big time, choosing caution, or really had no choice – van Moer and van der Elst were getting too old and particularly van der Elst arrived with injury to the finals, so it was not entirely sure he could play a whole 90 minutes – the Polish decision proved right. Perhaps a special motivation was that it was going to be the 100th match for Lato with the Polish jersey.

Poland pressed quickly and effectively and opened the result in the 4th minute. It was their match – Belgium was unable to answer at all. Lato was perfect and also Boniek in his unusual role, but most impressive was the defensive line, the weakest part of the Polish team. Guy Thys tried what he could – van der Elst replaced van Moer for the second half, yet, nothing really changed. Zbigniew Boniek scored a hat-trick. Poland 3 – Belgium 0.

Belgium – USSR. To a point, Belgium was already out, but it was not a team just to give up. Again Thys tried to patch whatever possible… Custers, van Moer, and van der Elst were out. There was no real solution for the goalkeeping problem – Munaron was hardly better than Custers – and no sufficiently creative midfielder, but the team was still tough and clearly the idea was to depend on collectivity. Beskov had to make some changes himself: Sulakvelidze was not in shape to play, so Borovsky took his place as right fullback. Oganesyan was to help the weak striking line, although he was not a real striker. The Soviets apparently chose the right strategy, although the match was tough and fairly equal and not everything went as planned – after the game, Blokhin was singled out for severe criticism.

Blokhin was expected to lead the attack, but contrary to the photo, he did not fly – most of time he was passive, yet, constantly protesting what he felt was mistakes of his teammates. Equal game, but USSR still managed to score – Oganesyan hit the net in the 48th minute. 1-0 USSR, their job done, Belgium packing for home.

Poland – USSR. Poland, getting better with every new match, evoked 1974 already, but it was really all or nothing. USSR was seemingly the stronger team and they had no other option, but to win. Poland would go ahead with a tie – unlikely result, for the Soviets really had to push for a win. This is what made Beskov’s starting choice questionable: clearly needing victory, he started with 5 defenders. Whether Gavrilov was the best choice in the front of the attack was doubtful – he was capable of playing midfield better than the other center-forward, Andreev, which suggested too much caution – as if USSR, not Poland, needed a tie.

It did not work – Poland played very organized defensive football and the Soviets had slight dominance, but it was almost impossible to turn it into goals, for there were not enough strikers to increase the heat. The match 0-0 and Soviet observers noted that the team underperformed. The strikers failed to deliver even a single shot towards the Polish net. Poland won the the group and reached the semi-finals.

Poland 2 1 1 0 3 0 +3 3

Soviet Union 2 1 1 0 1 0 +1 3

Belgium 2 0 0 2 0 4 −4 0

Well, Belgium was unlucky and a victim of injuries, USSR had potential, yet, they were perhaps the only team which next match was worse than the previous one, and Poland was the opposite – improving with every new game. Fair ending of this stage.

February 23, 2017

Group 6

Brazil and USSR opened the group. Santana was confident and most experts were sure Brazil will win. Apart from purely football aspects, in favour of Brazil was the weather – almost +40 C – and enormous fan support. And when the match started, expectations were seemingly fulfilled: Brazil attacked and dominated the game. But team USSR was well organized and dangerous too – at last, an interesting game. Which was almost ruined by the referee. In total, he disallowed a Soviet goal and did not call one – or two, depending on opinion – penalties in favour of USSR.

Ramaz Shengelia after scoring his goal – the Spanish referee did not think so.

Yet, the Soviets scored first and Brazil struggled to equalize to the very last quarter of the match. Socrates equalized in the 75th minute and 3 minutes before the final whistle Eder scored spectacular second – and winning – goal. Referee Augusto Lamo Castillo angered so much everybody, so to a point the football aspects were missed: USSR played well and Rinat Dassaev was excellent, but there was an old problem – tactics. Once having the lead, the Soviets were largely concerned with keeping the result, which resulted in isolation of their strikers – a big mistake, since it was obvious that Brazil had shaky goalkeeper. Brazil struggled in one particular aspect: they dominated the match and played exciting attacking football, but struggled to materialize their superiority. Goals came with great difficulties. Thus, it was imperative for them not that much to win, but actually to overcome the scoring problem. A psychological problem largely. Unfortunately, it was the referee helping Brazil to break the bad spell. Brazil 2 – USSR 1.

Scotland – New Zealand was a bit more than protocol: that the Scots will win nobody doubted. The only focus of interest was the Scottish approach: in the past, they paid heavy price for not taking seriously the outsiders. As an opponent, New Zealand was convenient team, for they played familiar British style football and the difference of class greatly favoured the Scots. But British-style teams were never to be underestimated – they played with big hearts, often overperforming against similar teams.

Scotland was the better team from the start and was leading 3-0 by the 33rd minute. This time they were not to make the old mistakes, it looked like. But they returned to the old habit… and in the 65th minute the result was 3-2. Luckily, the Scots woke up again and scored 2 more goals. 5-2. New Zealand made a pleasant debut, was nothing much, but fought as much as they could. Scotland… hard to tell. They left the impression that were going to repeat 1974 and 1978 – which meant that their best games would be against the stronger teams.

Brazil – Scotland. Everything felt on its places – Brazil was flying, Scotland was unable to stop the assault. On the surface, it was even strange: Brazil seemingly was using more than risky tactic – 3-2-5. Scotland was outplayed and this time Brazil needed no official help, although once again they allowed an early goal and Scotland was leading until the 33rd minute.

It was the start of the second half, which decided the match – Oscar gave Brazil the lead in the 49th minute and there was no stopping after that. 4-1 at the end. Brazil already qualified for the next stage. Scotland lost its goal-difference advantage.

USSR – New Zealand. The Soviets were too nervous, although they were obviously the favourite. New Zealand settled in the plausible outsider role: not giving up, determined to give their best, giving their best. Which was not much, unfortunately – Soviet journalists counted 5 big misses by Shengelia alone, but it was not going to be forever.

The Soviet superiority eventually materialized into 3 goals. 3-0 at the end. USSR was ahead of Scotland and needed only a tie, but really it was all or nothing for both teams.

Scotland – USSR. Scotland had no other option, but to win. USSR obviously came on the field looking for a tie – they fielded 5 defenders and stuck to their own half, leaving the occasional counter-attacks to Blokhin. Scotland run full froward and their assault worked at first – Joe Jordan scored in the 15th minute. Later, however, Scottish pressure was not so effective and the typically British simplistic approach was not the key for a win.

The Russians were perhaps a bit lucky to equalize, but they did. True, in the second half, when both teams abandoned all caution and the Soviets, now on the losing end, jumped into attacks. In the 84th minute Shengelia scored a second goal, but Scotland did not give up and equalized in the 87th minute. And the match ended 2-2. For the Soviets it was the most difficult match and observers noted that the team was not even nearly close to the kind of football displayed against Brazil. Yet, they clinched the 2nd place in the group. Scotland confirmed their status for the unluckiest team ever – for a third consecutive World Cup they exited after the first round, paying the heavy price for not taking seriously enough the group outsider. Kind of that. Perhaps with better tactical approach, slowing the tempo, and concentrating on mid-field battle they would have been able to cancel out the Soviets, but British football did not recognize slow tempo and lingering in the midfield.

Brazil – New Zealand was mere protocol for both teams – on paper. Other team would have fielded reserves to provide some rest to the starters, but Brazilian mentality was unable even to grasp such an idea. Which was great for the humble New Zealanders – this match left most kind memories for the unknown players, who not only played against the world famous stars, but were treated with respect, as equals.

Of course, the difference in class showed early and Brazil won 4-0, but the winners played seriously and the match was nice to watch. New Zealand left pleasant impression, Brazil seemingly was getting better and better after each match.

Brazil 3 3 0 0 10 2 +8 6

Soviet Union 3 1 1 1 6 4 +2 3

Scotland 3 1 1 1 8 8 0 3

New Zealand 3 0 0 3 2 12 −10 0

The final table was exactly the same as expected to be before the start of the tournament – Brazil superior and first, USSR and Scotland battled for the 2nd place, the Soviets got it with a bit of luck, New Zealand – the outsider, which at least played without fear and trying bravely to be a match for vastly stronger opponents.

February 19, 2017

Group 6

Group 6. Brazil – the favourite not only of the group, but one of the likeliest winners of the championship. New Zealand – the outsiders. Scotland and USSR to fight for the second place. Tough group, but essentially the battle was expected to be just for the second place.

Brazil not just traditional favourite, but this time with a team playing great football, thanks to Tele Santana. It looked like that finally Brazil found the right way, the right chemistry, the right players, and the right style – which was also a return to the ‘samba’ after many years of trying to copy European ‘disciplined’ styles. Head and shoulders above the teams not only in Group 6.

Top, left to right: Waldir Perez Arruda, José Oscar Bernardi, Edinho Nazareth Filho, Luis Carlos F. Luizinho, António Carlos Cerezo, Leovegildo Lins G. Junior, Carlos Renato Frederico, Socrates Brasileiro Oliveira, José Leandro Souza Ferreira, Alcides Fonseca J. Juninho, Carlos Roberto Gallo, Bottom, left to right: Edevaldo Freitas, Arthur Antunes C. Zico, Paulo Isidoro Jesus, Joao Batista Silva, Sérgio Bernardino Serginho, Paulo Sérgio Oliveira Lima, Dirceu, Eder Alexio Assis, Antonio Careca, Pedro Luiz V. Pedrinho

Head coach: Telê Santana

Waldir Peres

2 February 1951 (aged 31)

São Paulo

Leandro

17 March 1959 (aged 23)

Flamengo

Oscar

20 June 1954 (aged 27)

São Paulo

Luizinho

22 October 1958 (aged 23)

Atlético Mineiro

Toninho Cerezo

21 April 1955 (aged 27)

Atlético Mineiro

Júnior

29 June 1956 (aged 25)

Flamengo

Paulo Isidoro

3 August 1953 (aged 28)

Grêmio

Sócrates (c)

19 February 1954 (aged 28)

Corinthians

Serginho

23 December 1953 (aged 28)

São Paulo

Zico

3 March 1953 (aged 29)

Flamengo

Éder

25 May 1957 (aged 25)

Atlético Mineiro

Paulo Sérgio

24 July 1954 (aged 27)

Botafogo

Edevaldo

28 January 1958 (aged 24)

Internacional

Juninho

29 August 1958 (aged 23)

Ponte Preta

Falcão

16 October 1953 (aged 28)

Roma

Edinho

5 June 1955 (aged 27)

Fluminense

Pedrinho

22 October 1957 (aged 24)

Vasco da Gama

Batista

8 March 1955 (aged 27)

Grêmio

Renato

21 February 1957 (aged 25)

São Paulo

Roberto Dinamite

13 April 1954 (aged 28)

Vasco da Gama

Dirceu

15 June 1952 (aged 29)

Atlético Madrid

Carlos

4 March 1956 (aged 26)

Ponte Preta

A lot going for Brazil – Tele Santana not just built a new exciting team playing in the way Brazilians naturally preferred, but restored confidence and ambition. The team wanted to win, it was hungry. It was the right mix too – the right age, the right blend of experience and young talent, two great leaders – Zico and Socrates. The real strength of the team was the midfield – creative, goal-scoring, dominating even without using great physical pressure. On the negative side – well, minor flaws. Goalkeeping. Nothing new between the goalposts: Brazil had no great keepers after Gilmar, it was well known. Leao was the best by far, but he refused to join the team, disagreeing with the style Tele Santana wanted. No big deal at the end: Leao had very difficult character and there was a real danger that his presence can poison the camp. Valdir Peres – or Waldir Peres, depending on who was writing – was seemingly the first choice since he was coming to his 3rd World Cup. He never played at the finals so far, but was one of the most experienced Brazilian goalkeepers at this time. However, no big deal – even if goals were received, the team was so much attack-oriented that surely would score more goals than received. The other problem was the attacking line – it was shaky and Tele Santana had to try different combinations often. Serginho was a trouble on and off the pitch and there was a big possibility he will be going to jail instead to play in Spain – but the court ‘mercifully’ postponed his criminal case for after the World Cup. Yet, Serginho was not exactly the certain center-forward starter – the option was Careca. Just before the finals Careca got injured and had to be replaced in the last moment with Roberto Dinamite – the change settled the problem: Serginho was the certain starter. The whole attacking line was coming a bit short of expectations, but the midfielders more than compensated for that. Overall, Brazil was formidable and one the 4 big favourites of the championship.

USSR was back at the finals for the first time since 1970. After perhaps the weakest decade in the history of Soviet national team, observers did not see USSR as a major force – perhaps a bit stronger than Scotland in a good day, may be a bit bellow Scotland in a bad day. Something like that. The Soviets themselves did not expect miracles. The team was practically made in 1981 and no big changes were even possible – traditionally the Soviets preferred compact teams, usually made of two clubs. Players, used to play together. Konstantin Beskov did not deviate from tradition and he was seemingly better option than morose Lobanovsky, with his practical aims and stubborn preference for Kiev players. Yet, at least to an outside eye, Beskov fell into caution under pressure. His team was a combination of Dynamo Kiev, Spartak Moscow, Dinamo Tbilisi, but Kiev players were the leading group – at the expense of exciting Georgians – with some players clearly close to the physical and sometimes brutal style of Kiev: Sulakvelidze (Dinamo Tbilisi) and Khidiatulin (Spartak Moscow). May be second in the group.

From left: Chivadze, Dassaev, Baltacha, Burjak, Blokhine, Kipiani, Sulakvelidze, Borovsky, Oganesian, Andreyev, Bessonov.

Head coach: Konstantin Beskov

Rinat Dasayev

13 June 1957 (aged 25)

Spartak Moscow

Tengiz Sulakvelidze

23 July 1956 (aged 25)

Dinamo Tbilisi

Aleksandr Chivadze (c)

8 April 1955 (aged 27)

Dinamo Tbilisi

Vagiz Khidiyatullin

3 March 1959 (aged 23)

CSKA Moscow

Sergei Baltacha

17 February 1958 (aged 24)

Dynamo Kyiv

Anatoliy Demyanenko

19 February 1959 (aged 23)

Dynamo Kyiv

Ramaz Shengelia

1 January 1957 (aged 25)

Dinamo Tbilisi

Volodymyr Bessonov

5 March 1958 (aged 24)

Dynamo Kyiv

Yuri Gavrilov

3 May 1953 (aged 29)

Spartak Moscow

Khoren Oganesian

10 January 1955 (aged 27)

Ararat Yerevan

Oleg Blokhin

5 November 1952 (aged 29)

Dynamo Kyiv

Andriy Bal

16 February 1958 (aged 24)

Dynamo Kyiv

Vitaly Daraselia

9 October 1957 (aged 24)

Dinamo Tbilisi

Sergei Borovsky

29 January 1956 (aged 26)

Dinamo Minsk

Sergey Andreyev

16 May 1956 (aged 26)

SKA Rostov

Sergey Rodionov

3 September 1962 (aged 19)

Spartak Moscow

Leonid Buryak

10 July 1953 (aged 28)

Dynamo Kyiv

Yuri Susloparov

14 August 1958 (aged 23)

Torpedo Moscow

Vadym Yevtushenko

1 January 1958 (aged 24)

Dynamo Kyiv

Oleg Romantsev

4 January 1954 (aged 28)

Spartak Moscow

Viktor Chanov

21 July 1959 (aged 22)

Dynamo Kyiv

Vyacheslav Chanov

23 October 1951 (aged 30)

Torpedo Moscow

There was no particular excitement about this squad: seemingly, it was based on Dynamo Kiev – tough, no nosense, physical, and… bland. Difficult to beat, but also a team not exactly capable of winning. On the negative side – it looked like that some players were included just to complete the required number. Dinamo Tbilisi won the Cup Winners Cup not long ago with thrilling attacking football, but Kipiani and Gutzaev were not included in the final selection. Gutzaev was an old problem – he was inconsistent and unpredictable. As a rule of thumb, he was invited to the national team camp for years, only to be left out of the team at the last moment. David Kipiani was another matter: perhaps the best Soviet player at this time and certainly the most inventive and creative. Great organizer, goal-scorer, highly technical. With him in midfield and Gutzaev and Daraselia in attack the Soviets would have been very dangerous. Without him… there was only one classy passer in midfield, Leonid Buryak. Who, however, reached his peak about five years earlier: great runner, precise, but surprise inventive attacks were impossible to him. Limited vision, predictable. Without Kipiani, Buryak was to set the tone – to the point even if Buryak was not in good form, he was to play. With Buryak, team USSR was not very dangerous opponent. Beskov settled for conservative safety, discarding risky creativity – which made his team very convenient for Scotland.

Scotland… unlike secretive Soviets, who never unveiled internal troubles in print, the Scots had big public disputes. Jock Stein was a great coach, yet, his demands were not liked by current Scottish stars. Some were left out of the team as a result, others almost placed on hold. But Scotland had no giant pool of talent, so it was not all that easy to replace some great names – compared to 1974, the options were fewer to begin with. It was also well remembered that Scotland went to Argentina to win the title in 1978 – and returned quickly with a full bag of scandals. No big declarations this time and no big expectations. The aim was eventually reaching the second stage of the finals – which depended largely on the clash with USSR. Possible.

Head coach: Jock Stein

Alan Rough

25 November 1951 (aged 30)

Partick Thistle

Danny McGrain

1 May 1950 (aged 32)

Celtic

Frank Gray

27 October 1954 (aged 27)

Leeds United

Graeme Souness (c)

6 May 1953 (aged 29)

Liverpool

Alan Hansen

13 June 1955 (aged 27)

Liverpool

Willie Miller

2 May 1955 (aged 27)

Aberdeen

Gordon Strachan

9 February 1957 (aged 25)

Aberdeen

Kenny Dalglish

4 March 1951 (aged 31)

Liverpool

Alan Brazil

15 June 1959 (aged 22)

Ipswich Town

John Wark

4 August 1957 (aged 24)

Ipswich Town

John Robertson

20 January 1953 (aged 29)

Nottingham Forest

George Wood

26 September 1952 (aged 29)

Arsenal

Alex McLeish

21 January 1959 (aged 23)

Aberdeen

David Narey

12 June 1956 (aged 26)

Dundee United

Joe Jordan

15 December 1951 (aged 30)

A.C. Milan

Asa Hartford

24 October 1950 (aged 31)

Manchester City

Allan Evans

12 October 1956 (aged 25)

Aston Villa

Steve Archibald

27 September 1956 (aged 25)

Tottenham Hotspur

Paul Sturrock

10 October 1956 (aged 25)

Dundee United

Davie Provan

8 May 1956 (aged 26)

Celtic

George Burley

3 June 1956 (aged 26)

Ipswich Town

Jim Leighton

24 July 1958 (aged 23)

Aberdeen

On the positive side, experienced, tough team, with core of great players, some of them coming to their 3rd World Cup – Dalglish, Souness, Jordan, Hartford. Younger talent, particularly in attack: Archibald, Strachan, Brazil. On the negative side: rather predictable British style. Suspect goalkeeping. No great central-defender, commanding the defensive line. Moody team. But also a team capable of inspiration and having to prove something: Scotland was unlucky in 1974, when exited early, but unbeaten. It was unlucky in 1978 too. It was high time to move beyond the first stage and it was possible if Scotland mended its old problem: taking it easy against outsiders. To a point, the most important match was to be not against Brazil or USSR, but against New Zealand.

Modest New Zealand was out of the race – they were expected to be happy just for playing at the finals, expected to play with big hearts, but only trying not to lose with big results and may be score a goal. That was all and nobody paid more attention to this team – exotic nobodies. Even at their own country, where rugby ruled.

Front: Dods, McClure, B. Turner, Malcomson, Simonsen, Bright.

Middle row: Adshead (sél.), Mackay, G. Turner, Wilson, Van Hattum, Herbert, Hill, Fallon (ass.).

Third row: Cole, Boath, Sumner, Almond, Elrick, Wooddin.

Head coach: John Adshead

Richard Wilson

8 May 1956 (aged 26)

Preston Macedonia

Glenn Dods

7 July 1957 (aged 24)

Adelaide City

Ricki Herbert

10 April 1961 (aged 21)

Mount Wellington

Brian Turner

31 July 1949 (aged 32)

Gisborne City

Dave Bright

29 November 1949 (aged 32)

Manurewa AFC

Bobby Almond

16 April 1951 (aged 31)

Invercargill Thistle

Wynton Rufer

29 December 1962 (aged 19)

Miramar Rangers

Duncan Cole

12 July 1958 (aged 23)

Hanimex United

Steve Wooddin

16 January 1955 (aged 27)

South Melbourne FC

Steve Sumner (c)

2 April 1955 (aged 27)

West Adelaide Hellas

Sam Malcolmson

2 April 1948 (aged 34)

East Coast Bays AFC

Keith MacKay

8 December 1956 (aged 25)

Gisborne City

Kenny Cresswell

4 June 1958 (aged 24)

Gisborne City

Adrian Elrick

29 September 1949 (aged 32)

Hanimex United

John Hill

7 January 1950 (aged 32)

Gisborne City

Glen Adam

22 May 1959 (aged 23)

Mount Wellington

Allan Boath

14 February 1958 (aged 24)

West Adelaide Hellas

Peter Simonsen

17 April 1959 (aged 23)

Manurewa AFC

Billy McClure

4 January 1958 (aged 24)

Mount Wellington

Grant Turner

7 October 1958 (aged 23)

Gisborne City

Barry Pickering

12 December 1956 (aged 25)

Miramar Rangers

Frank van Hattum

17 November 1958 (aged 23)

Manurewa AFC

Anonimous team, perhaps with a player or two hoping to attract the interest of some British club.

So, Brazil first and either USSR or Scotland second. Big surprise not expected here. Hopes for Scotland – largely because they were unlucky in the two previous World Cups.

February 18, 2017February 18, 2017

Group 5

Spain and Honduras opened the group, gathering almost 50 000 fans at the stadium, mostly Spanish. The hype was great, for it was the beginning of arguably big Spanish run for the crown. Reality quickly proved different.

Instead of easy win over modest outsiders, Spain struggled. Honduras silenced the crowds in the 8th minute, when Zelaya gave the lead to the unknown Central Americans. Spain more or less dominated the match, but was toothless and unable to create something really dangerous. Honduras was surprisingly competent team, especially in defense. Everything was going wrong for the hosts until the 62nd minute, when a penalty was called. A suspect penalty to many, but criticism really erupted a few days later. Lopez Ufarte equalized. Spain was unable to do more. 1-1.

Observers considered Yugoslavia – Northern Ireland tougher match than Spain – Honduras, but Yugoslavia was the big favourite, expected to win. Coaches were more careful – Billy Bingham had no options anyway, so he said he will use its standard eleven. But he included teenage Norman Whiteside among the starters – there was nothing to fear or lose: Northern Ireland was no Brazil or West Germany . Miljanic was cautious, emphasizing that the opponents were tough and one had to be careful with them. May be Miljanic’s caution set the tone of the game – it was disciplined and well organized approach from both sides.

Norman Whiteside, pictured here, made good debut at the world stage, but neither team was particularly inspired in midfield and attack. Yugoslavia was more dangerous but unable to score. 0-0.

Suddenly the easiest group was not easy at all and Spain, blowing away their ‘easiest’ of all matches, had to win against Yugoslavia. But Yugoslavia too had to win. And when the match started, they were the stronger team. And scored a goal in the 10th minute. Spain was greatly disturbed and Yugoslavia pressed forward, creating quickly two more scoring possibilities. Then… Spain got a penalty. It was more than obvious favour to the hosts and later none was more critical of the Danish referee than his compatriots: it was blatant help to Spain, for there was no penalty at all – Miguel Alonso was at least 1 meter outside penalty area. And even this was not enough, for Lopez Ufarte missed the net with his kick – and the referee ordered the penalty to be replayed: Pantelic moved before the ball was kicked. A laugh, really, but the second time Juanito scored. 1-1. Yugoslavia was disturbed, Spain restored some confidence.

A picture like this one suggest Spanish superiority, but there was nothing even close – Yugoslavia clearly outplayed Spain and remained dominant most of the time. As a last resort, Santamaria made unusual double-substitute, fielding two strikers – Quini and Saura. They did not change Spanish play by much, but the strikers proved dangerous enough – in the 66th minute Quini missed the ball, but Saura still managed to get to it and scored a second – and first from playing situation – goal for Spain. To the end, the hosts managed to preserve their fragile lead. 2-1. After the match critics of Santamaria smiled: for a long time they blasted the coach for not using Santillana and Quini. And they were right – Quini proved their point; now bring back Santillana in the team! Yugoslavia was suddenly… going out?

Honduras vs Northern Ireland. The outsiders were to become true outsiders now… Northern Ireland had the edge, theoretically, but they had great difficulty scoring, so a tie was also possible.

Well, the Irish scored early – in the 10th minute – which very possibly would have been the final result: Honduras worried about Irish physical dominance before the game. Northern Ireland pressed as hard as they could, but surprisingly the Central Americans responded more than well, getting the initiative in the second half and equalizing the result in the 62nd minute. They attacked to the final whistle and Pat Jennings was the hero of the day, making at least one fantastic save. 1-1.

Yugolsavia had to win its last game, which was no longer just an easy walk over, but a matter of life and death. So was for modest Honduras, which was still unbeaten and had a good chance of going to the next round too.

Yugoslavia was out from the tournament almost to the end of the match – they scored at last in the 87th minute and only thanks to a penalty. Honduras left wonderful impression, but was out. Minimally, but out. Yugoslavia – 1, Honduras – 0. Nothing going – Yugoslavia depended on the result of the last group match.

Yugoslavia – Honduras game qualified Spain to the next stage, so the last group match was largely a matter of getting confidence and trying to convince increasingly critical public that the team was actually strong. Northern Ireland, however, had a chance to go ahead too, so it was not to be a protocol match at all. Spain got no sympathy from foreigners at all – it was helped by the referees, for now even the penalty against Honduras was considered a gift, and the insulting to the game practice continued in the last match – the referee red-carded an Irish player, Mal Donaghy. But Spain was disorganized, sometime entirely shapeless and clueless, lacking any systematic approach. Northern Ireland defended itself more than well, especially against uninspired and toothless attacks, using any chance for counter-attacking.

And then the horror… if one was Spanish. Two minutes after the beginning of the second half Armstrong came face to face with Arconada and scored. That was enough – the match ended 1-0 for Northern Ireland. Yugoslavia was out, brave Irish – to the next stage.

Northern Ireland 3 1 2 0 2 1 +1 4

Spain 3 1 1 1 3 3 0 3

Yugoslavia 3 1 1 1 2 2 0 3

Honduras 3 0 2 1 2 3 − 1 2

The ‘easiest’ group was a surprise. The football shown may not have been great, but the outsiders played more than well. Yugoslavia had nobody to blame, but themselves – most likely they paid heavy price for having been too tactically minded, thus lacking improvisation and inspiration. Yes, they were robbed by the referee against Spain, but the plain fact was Yugoslavia did not play as well as expected. Spain was a great disappointment and only after the first truth came out: Santamaria finally announced what was known for years outside Spain: the best for his squad was to play tough defensive game,watching for opportunistic counter-attacks. But, Santamaria said, the whole Spain demanded the team to play attacking football and he bent under this demand, asking his team to play a kind of football they were unable to do. There were no players in Spain capable of such kind of game. Of course, Santamaria was criticized right away for such demoralizing views, but it was clear to anyone watching without a bias, that Spain was awful and no help from officials would propel the team to the title – after all, the road to there demanded they win the group in order of having easier second stage group. With shameful help from the referees, Spain finished second. Norther Ireland, on the other hand, played above its own ability, becoming instant darling of the fans. Nobody supposed them to go beyond second stage, but they played with hearts and surely would not go down without a great fight.

February 16, 2017February 16, 2017

Group 5

Group 5. Honduras was the outsider. Northern Ireland – great to see the underdogs at the finals, they will play with big hearts surely, but 3rd place was theirs and no more. Spain and Yugoslavia were seemingly glued together for ever: their battles went on during the whole 1970s – for both World Cup and European championship qualifications. Given the group make, they were to go ahead. Spain had the edge as hosts – and the edge included the usual help from officials for the hosts of finals.

Spain was one the biggest favourites for winning the championship. Yet, it differed greatly from Brazil, West Germany, and Argentina: she was major favourite not because of a great team playing great football. Spain was favourite because it was the host and would have fantastic support. Spain was also the only great football country never winning anything – except the European championship in 1964 – and often failing miserably. Their was ambition to change the pattern, hunger to win, big hype, urgency. As a host, it was almost taken for granted Spain will be ‘helped’ by the officials and more than usual, for Spanish teams were suspected for a long time for meddling with officials behind the curtains. And as almost ever, hosts had ‘Lady Luck’ on their side – an easy group with not one, but two outsiders. The championship would start for the Spaniards in the second round, practically.

Head coach: José Santamaría

Luis Arconada (c)

26 June 1954 (aged 27)

Real Sociedad

José Antonio Camacho

8 June 1955 (aged 27)

Real Madrid

Rafael Gordillo

24 February 1957 (aged 25)

Real Betis

Miguel Ángel Alonso

1 February 1953 (aged 29)

Real Sociedad

Miguel Tendillo

1 February 1961 (aged 21)

Valencia

José Ramón Alexanko

19 May 1956 (aged 26)

FC Barcelona

Juanito

10 November 1954 (aged 27)

Real Madrid

Joaquín

9 June 1956 (aged 26)

Sporting de Gijón

Jesús María Satrústegui

12 January 1954 (aged 28)

Real Sociedad

Jesús María Zamora

1 January 1955 (aged 27)

Real Sociedad

Roberto López Ufarte

19 April 1958 (aged 24)

Real Sociedad

Santiago Urquiaga

14 April 1958 (aged 24)

Athletic Bilbao

Manuel Jiménez

27 October 1956 (aged 25)

Sporting de Gijón

Antonio Maceda

16 May 1957 (aged 25)

Sporting de Gijón

Enrique Saura

2 August 1954 (aged 27)

Valencia CF

José Vicente Sánchez

8 October 1956 (aged 25)

FC Barcelona

Ricardo Gallego

8 February 1959 (aged 23)

Real Madrid

Pedro Uralde

2 March 1958 (aged 24)

Real Sociedad

Santillana

23 August 1952 (aged 29)

Real Madrid

Quini

23 September 1949 (aged 32)

FC Barcelona

Urruti

17 February 1952 (aged 30)

FC Barcelona

Miguel Ángel

24 December 1947 (aged 34)

Real Madrid

Experienced and very tough team. Home turf and great fans, ‘the 12th player’. One of the best goalkeepers in the world – Arconada. Official help. Unofficial help. Great motivation and ambition. Knowing and using every dirty trick in the book and some out of the book. Some murderers in defense. On the minus side: great expectation often burn out a team. For a long time Spain played tough, but not inspired football and the national team usually disappointed at major tournaments. A tendency to play very dirty,which may be costly in the long run. Difficulty scoring goals. To a point, it was even difficult to asses Spain, because hype and expectations prevented not only the journalists to objectively evaluate , let alone criticize, the team. Santamaria had to speak only positively, so he was speaking of pride, honour, patriotism, and winning the title. Arconada was almost the lone voice of caution and pessimism: he said the expectations were too high and may be dangerous. The pressure on the team was too great and it may fall apart under it. As a whole, Spain was expected to win the group without trouble.

Yugoslavia managed to rebuild and had a team similarly strong to the one which played at their last World Cup appearance in 1974. Miljan Miljanic was coaching Yugoslavia again – still one of the greatest coaches of the time, excellent tactician, and innovative. Three players of the 1974 squad were his key starters – Ivica Surjak, Vladimir Petrovic, and Jurica Jerkovic. There were great players in every line – Pantelic between the goalposts, Zajec and Nenad Stojkovic in defense, Gudelj, Susic, and Sljivo in midfield, Halilhodzic and Pasic in attack. The twins Zoran and Zlatko Vujovic were the bright young players, expected to burst at the World Cup and quickly to become stars. Solid team with good reserves, plenty of talent, well adjusted team. Miljanic decided not to play friendlies before the finals, defending his unorthodox decision with the argument that his team is well known to him, there is no need to play useless games – he has the needed players, there is no uncertainty. Another reason was the bunch of foreign based players – for the first time Yugoslavia had so many in the first team, 6 in total – who most likely would be unavailable for friendlies. It was not explicitly declared, but Yugoslavia and Miljanic himself, for he knew Spanish football more than well after coaching Real Madrid, expected Yugoslavia to finish second in the preliminary group. Which was just fine.

Head coach: Miljan Miljanić

Dragan Pantelić

9 December 1951 (aged 30)

Girondins Bordeaux

Ive Jerolimov

30 March 1958 (aged 24)

Rijeka

Ivan Gudelj

21 September 1960 (aged 21)

Hajduk Split

Velimir Zajec

12 February 1956 (aged 26)

Dinamo Zagreb

Nenad Stojković

26 May 1956 (aged 26)

Partizan Belgrade

Zlatko Krmpotić

7 August 1958 (aged 23)

Red Star Belgrade

Vladimir Petrović

1 July 1955 (aged 26)

Red Star Belgrade

Edhem Šljivo

16 March 1950 (aged 32)

Nice

Zoran Vujović

26 August 1958 (aged 23)

Hajduk Split

Zvonko Živković

31 October 1959 (aged 22)

Partizan Belgrade

Zlatko Vujović

26 August 1958 (aged 23)

Hajduk Split

Ivan Pudar

16 August 1961 (aged 20)

Hajduk Split

Safet Sušić

13 April 1955 (aged 27)

FK Sarajevo

Nikola Jovanović

18 September 1952 (aged 29)

Buducnost Titograd

Miloš Hrstić

20 November 1955 (aged 26)

NK Rijeka

Miloš Šestić

8 August 1956 (aged 25)

Red Star Belgrade

Jurica Jerković

25 February 1950 (aged 32)

FC Zürich

Stjepan Deverić

20 August 1961 (aged 20)

Dinamo Zagreb

Vahid Halilhodžić

15 October 1952 (aged 29)

FC Nantes

Ivica Šurjak (c)

23 March 1953 (aged 29)

PSG

Predrag Pašić

18 October 1958 (aged 23)

FK Sarajevo

Ratko Svilar

6 May 1950 (aged 32)

Antwerp

Pros: talent was not a question. Nor experience. In a good day, Yugoslavia was capable of fantastic football. Many felt it was a great squad, at least equal, if not better, than those of late 1960s-early 1970s. Motivation was also handy: age restriction was going laxer in Yugoslavia and the players would like to impress foreign clubs and get good contracts. Miljan Miljanic was a big factor alone. Cons: traditionally moody and unpredictable team. Yugoslavia often fell apart at important matches. The current version was not exactly playing the kind of flamboyant liked by Yugoslavian fans and press – Miljanic was criticized for bland tactical approach. He answered with results, but as soon as the team underperformed… which was likely, for Yugoslavian players were not very enthusiastic to be restricted by tactics. Perhaps the absence of Ivan Buljan was a big miss. Trivia: during the 1970s, Yugoslavia was practically a Crvena zvezda – Hajduk combination. Now the spell was broken and the national team was more diverse.

Northern Ireland. Darling underdogs, who most likely reached their maximum by qualifying for the World Cup finals. They were surely to play with great heart, but were severely limited team – brave performance was not going to overcome objectively very small pool of talent. Third in the group.

Head coach: Billy Bingham

Pat Jennings

12 June 1945 (aged 37)

Arsenal

Jimmy Nicholl

28 February 1956 (aged 26)

Toronto Blizzard

Mal Donaghy

13 September 1957 (aged 24)

Luton Town

David McCreery

16 September 1957 (aged 24)

Tulsa Roughnecks

Chris Nicholl

12 October 1946 (aged 35)

Southampton

John O’Neill

11 March 1958 (aged 24)

Leicester City

Noel Brotherston

18 November 1956 (aged 25)

Blackburn Rovers

Martin O’Neill (c)

1 March 1952 (aged 30)

Norwich City

Gerry Armstrong

23 May 1954 (aged 28)

Watford

Sammy McIlroy

2 August 1954 (aged 27)

Stoke City

Billy Hamilton

9 May 1957 (aged 25)

Burnley

John McClelland

7 December 1955 (aged 26)

Rangers

Sammy Nelson

1 April 1949 (aged 33)

Brighton

Tommy Cassidy

18 November 1950 (aged 31)

Burnley

Tommy Finney

6 November 1952 (aged 29)

Cambridge United

Norman Whiteside

7 May 1965 (aged 17)

Manchester United

Jim Platt

26 January 1952 (aged 30)

Middlesbrough

Johnny Jameson

11 March 1958 (aged 24)

Glentoran

Felix Healy

27 September 1955 (aged 26)

Coleraine

Jim Cleary

27 May 1956 (aged 26)

Glentoran

Bobby Campbell

13 September 1956 (aged 25)

Bradford City

George Dunlop

16 January 1956 (aged 26)

Linfield

Pros: the Irish spirit, of course. There was no doubt this team will fight in every match, as best as they can and may be even above their abilities. Just about everything in their favour. Cons: easily seen limitations – not even enough players in the 4 English professional leagues for a full squad, so some from Northern Ireland clubs had to be included. A novelty team in a way, for there was no other country in the world making a national team from second and third division players. Scoring goals was almost out of the question, thus, winning matches was pure chance. Trivia: George Best was considered, at least in the media, but was not included in the team. On the other hand, Northern Ireland featured the youngest ever player at World Cup finals – Norman Whiteside. 17-years old, but days younger than Pele at his world cup debut in 1958.

Honduras. Well, even less to say and consider than for Northern Ireland. Unknown outsiders. One of the debutantes. May be lucky ones, for they were in a group with teams having either difficulty scoring or never playing at their best against outsiders, or both. Expected to be last, but may be earning a point against Northern Ireland and not receiving a shameful amount of goals. If anything, Honduras was in a bit better situation than El Salvador, which had no money to finance a 22-member team and even fan donations made possible for two players to go to Spain: Honduras at least managed to pay for a full squad.

Head coach: José de la Paz Herrera

Salomón Nazar

7 September 1953 (aged 28)

Universidad

Efraín Gutiérrez

7 May 1954 (aged 28)

Universidad

Jaime Villegas

5 July 1950 (aged 31)

Real España

Fernando Bulnes

21 October 1946 (aged 35)

Olimpia

Anthony Costly

13 December 1954 (aged 27)

Real España

Ramón Maradiaga (c)

30 October 1954 (aged 27)

Motagua

Antonio Laing

27 December 1958 (aged 23)

Platense

Francisco Javier Toledo

30 September 1959 (aged 22)

Marathón

Porfirio Betancourt

23 August 1956 (aged 25)

RC Strasbourg

Roberto Figueroa

15 December 1959 (aged 22)

Vida

David Buezo

5 May 1955 (aged 27)

Motagua

Domingo Droumond

14 April 1957 (aged 25)

Platense

Prudencio Norales

20 April 1956 (aged 26)

Olimpia

Juan Cruz

27 February 1959 (aged 23)

Universidad

Héctor Zelaya

12 July 1957 (aged 24)

Motagua

Roberto Bailey

10 August 1952 (aged 29)

Marathón

José Cruz

12 June 1949 (aged 33)

Motagua

Carlos Caballero

5 December 1958 (aged 23)

Real España

Celso Güity

7 August 1955 (aged 26)

Marathón

Gilberto Yearwood

15 March 1956 (aged 26)

Valladolid

Julio César Arzú

5 June 1954 (aged 28)

Real España

Jimmy Steward

9 December 1946 (aged 35)

Real España

Nothing to say in favour of this team, as is typically the case of fringe teams. Perhaps the only real aim of Honduras was tangential – to finish somewhat better than El Salvador, so, in a way, to get revenge for the ‘football war’ of 1969. Two foreign based professionals – Gilberto Yearwood and Porfirio Betancourt -which was nothing really, but at least was greater than what El Salvador had.

Predictable group, perhaps the only one with 2 outsiders.

February 12, 2017February 12, 2017

Group 4

The first match of the group was, ironically, the most decisive – England vs France. Traditionally, France was an easy opponent for England, but tradition itself does not win games. Problems in both teams – Keegan and Brooking were injured. Francis and Rix replaced them. In a way, it was a chance to make use of the new libero, but in the same time it was not the time to experiment. Neither here, not there. The fundamental French problems were clearly presented in the team Hidalgo fielded: Ettori, originally the third goalkeeper, suddenly was a starter. Six and Bellone were replaced too. Goalkeepin and attack… the perennial French weaknesses. The match, however, unfolded in familiar way – tradition worked, England prevailed.

For good measure, Bryan Robson scored in the 1st minute. At the end – 3-1 for England. Hidalgo was cool – nothing tragic. England started pretty much as ever – good and strong. But did not give the impression it was new and improved.

Czechoslovakia vs Kuwait – not worth mentioning, right? There was a bit of caution in the Czechoslovak camp: they recalled that Kuwait managed a tie against them at the 1980 Olympic Games. World Cup was different, but many of the players of both sides were here. Still, Czechoslovakia was the favourite by far.

The Czechoslovaks were right to worry – Kuwait played surprisingly well and actually dominated most of the match. Still, they were on the losing end after the end of the first half. Thanks to suspect penalty, Czechoslovakia was leading 1-0. Panenka scored. Well, ‘big boys’ are often helped by referees when struggling against anonymous teams. But Kuwait equalized in the 58th minute and that was that – 1-1 at the end, one more surprise result, one more success for the outsiders. Czechoslovakia clearly was not going to produce a miracle this year, as it was suspected.

England – Czechoslovakia. After the opening matches, England was expected to win, but again caution prevailed – England struggled against East European teams during the 1970s and was eliminated by them, including Czechoslovakia. Ron Greenwood decided – and no surprise in that – not to change the team, which won against France. The Czechoslovakian problems were beyond mending. But tradition once again played its role and most of the match, especially the first half was equal.

In the second half England scored twice after Czechoslovakian mistakes – first Trevor Francis and then Barmos scored in his own net. Well, at least he was the last player the ball touched. England did not look better. It did not look ‘modernized’ either, libero or no libero. But with 2 wins England qualified already for the next stage. Czechoslovakia was practically out and rightly so – only big French misfortune would have helped them. Few thought such thing possible.

France – Kuwait. A mere protocol on the surface, but France had to win no matter what and Kuwait suddenly looked like able to produce sensation. Hidalgo did not sound very optimistic before the match. But the difference in class showed itself quickly – Kuwait played once again well, but France was simply much better.

The key moment was in the 30th minute, when Genghini scored from a free kick. The moment shows the big difference – powerful French and ‘primitive’ wall, made of players scared of the ball. France got confidence with this goal at last. Kuwait just played well. The big moment of the match happened after Alain Giresse scored and the Soviet referee Stupar allowed it. But it was suspect goal, at least to the fans of Kuwait, who already felt unfairly treated. The President of their Federation Prince Fahd Al-Ahmad forced his way to the pitch with one of his wife in toe. It was fantastic scene of utter chaos – everybody argued until the Spanish Police stepped in. Amazingly, the referee reversed his decision after his encounter with the Prince. Now the French were not happy, but they did not have a Prince. 1966 was recalled – once again a Soviet referee made blatantly wrong decision, disgracing the sport. Yet, it was unique moment of football history: never before and never after a referee changed his mind because the public wanted that. One can think in sorry political lines: bending to power was so much ingrained into Soviet people, that almost automatically they followed a mere demand of person of visible authority. It was enough to see a Party official… it was enough to see a Prince. Anyhow, France won 4-1. Apart of the shameful show of pitch invasion, Kuwait played well.

France – Czechoslovakia. It was decisive match – France had the edge, but Czechoslovakia still had a chance. All or nothing, but ‘all’ included also a tie, benefiting France. A rather equal match, decided by well known weaknesses: France was better, Czechoslovakia – unable to produce something really dangerous.

The French problem continued to be scoring, but the team was playing better and better every next game. Czechoslovakia was competent enough to be tough – bit often making mistakes and once again a defensive mistake helped France to 1-0 lead. Which was pretty much the end of the battle – true, Czechoslovakia was more active and pushing to the end of the match. Panenka scored his second goal from a penalty and equalized the result – 1-1. Czechoslovakia was out, as expected. France qualified in second place, as expected. Hidalgo said nothing else: second place was the French aim and it was achieved. Yet, the coach said, better wait for the result of the last group match. Waiting for what? For a surprise victory of Kuwait.

England – Kuwait was just a protocol, at least for England. Theoretically, Kuwait, if winning with 4 goals difference would qualify instead of France. Fat chance, even if England played in very disinterested way.

But no miracle happened – England was not particularly interested and Kuwait played again heroically, but the difference in class was too big. Trevor Francis scored in the 27th minute. That was it. After all, it was not the match itself, but what was going on away from the pitch more important: Kuwait was fined 25 000 Swiss franks for the interruption of the match with France, Stupar was penalized too and was taken out of the championship, Keegan was secretly rushed to see doctors in Hamburg in the hope they would patch him somewhat for the rest of the championship, Greenwood took advantage of the easy last game and benched Butcher and Samson to save them for more important matches. Butcher after all had a yellow card already and their was risk of getting another one and missing a game. Never mind… money were just peanuts for Kuwait, Keegan was unlikely to be a starter, because Trevor Francis was in great from and scoring, England ended with perfect record, Kuwait – happy with solid performance.

England 3 3 0 0 6 1 +5 6

France 3 1 1 1 6 5 +1 3

Czechoslovakia 3 0 2 1 2 4 −2 2

Kuwait 3 0 1 2 2 6 −4 1

Final standings exactly to the letter of expectations and predictions. Rather boring because of that – nothing out of line. Only France was seemingly getting better after each match. Greenwood proved to be no great reformer after all – England was similar to what it always was, libero or no libero. Kuwait was nice exotica, Czechoslovakia… not deserving to go ahead, so it was fine they did not.

February 11, 2017February 11, 2017

Group 4

Group 4. England and France – in that order – were expected to go ahead. Czechoslovakia was expected to finish 3rd, unless producing a surprise. Kuwait – the outsider without any chance.

England finally reached World Cup finals – for the first time since 1870 – and, by tradition, was considered big favourite. But… like Italy, a second tier favourite. One thing was certain: England was going to the second round, the group was convenient. But there were various doubts – first, the Faulklands crisis put the very appearance of England in question. The British Parliament wanted all UK teams to withdraw from the finals because Argentina was going to be present. There was uncertainty for a while, but at the end England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland confirmed their participation. More difficult problems concerned the game itself: Ron Greenwood decided to introduce the libero to the national team. England was the last country to do and consequently was terribly outdated and suffered not only defensively. At a glance, it was something minor… but for England it was a revolution without a call for such. No British team used a libero, therefore, there was no central defender capable of the role. Ray Wilkins was transformed to play the role. Ron Greenwood experimented a lot – he was perhaps the coach experimenting most at this time – but he seemingly missed the timing: it should have been productive to try the new approach back in 1980. He tried it too late, thus not having time for building a new team around Wilkins. Yes, England had a generous pool of strong players, but the concept was so foreign, it needed time. By 1982 most of the key stars aged, but there was no time now to discard them and build another team. And old habits were almost impossible to break: Keegan, Brooking, Francis, McDermott, Thompson, Clemence, Shilton never played with libero. And they were still the leaders, the big essential stars, without whom Greenwood did not dare to play, let alone public opinion. At the end, Greenwood settled for mechanical compromise, which was very suspect.

Standing from left: Bryan Robson, Tony Woodcock, Steve Foster, Glenn Hoddle, Peter Withe, Viv Anderson, Trevour Brooking, Paul Mariner, Ray Wilkins.

Middle row: Fred Street (physio), Geoff Hurst (assistant-coach), Graham Rix, Phil Thompson, Ray

Clemence, Joe Corrigan, Peter Shilton, Terry Butcher, Steve Coppell, Don Howe (coach), Norman Medhurst (assistant-physio).

Sitting: Kenny Sanson, Terry McDermott, Kevin Keegan, Ron Greenwood (Manager), Mick Mills, Phil Neal, Trevor Francis.

Head coach: Ron Greenwood

Ray Clemence

5 August 1948 (aged 33)

Tottenham Hotspur

Viv Anderson

29 August 1956 (aged 25)

Nottingham Forest

Trevor Brooking

2 October 1948 (aged 33)

West Ham United

Terry Butcher

28 December 1958 (aged 23)

Ipswich Town

Steve Coppell

9 July 1955 (aged 26)

Manchester United

Steve Foster

24 September 1957 (aged 24)

Brighton and Hove Albion

Kevin Keegan

14 February 1951 (aged 31)

Southampton

Trevor Francis

19 April 1954 (aged 28)

Manchester City

Glenn Hoddle

27 October 1957 (aged 24)

Tottenham Hotspur

Terry McDermott

8 December 1951 (aged 30)

Liverpool

Paul Mariner

22 May 1953 (aged 29)

Ipswich Town

Mick Mills (c)

4 January 1949 (aged 33)

Ipswich Town

Joe Corrigan

18 November 1948 (aged 33)

Manchester City

Phil Neal

20 February 1951 (aged 31)

Liverpool

Graham Rix

23 October 1957 (aged 24)

Arsenal

Bryan Robson

11 January 1957 (aged 25)

Manchester United

Kenny Sansom

26 September 1958 (aged 23)

Arsenal

Phil Thompson

21 January 1954 (aged 28)

Liverpool

Ray Wilkins

14 September 1956 (aged 25)

Manchester United

Peter Withe

30 August 1951 (aged 30)

Aston Villa

Tony Woodcock

6 December 1955 (aged 26)

FC Köln

Peter Shilton

18 September 1949 (aged 32)

Nottingham Forest

On the negative side – stars, going on 30, and suspect ability to adapt to modern tactics. On the positive- a team never lacking motivation and great spirit, fighting to the final whistle no matter the result. This team had ambition to prove themselves and restore the faded English glory – if not to the standards of 1966, at least to those of 1970. Fans were the big liability and there were many wishing England to exit early only to get rid of the hooligans. Trivia: the goalkeepers got the traditional English numbers for their position; the rest were numbered alphabetically, except Kevin Keegan, who had his favoured number 7.

France. Michel Hidalgo announced that he was stepping down after the World Cup – the news was received with mixed feelings in France. The coach was often criticized for softness, but also he made the team, which left wonderful memories in 1978. Unfortunately, seemingly the team did not develop after that. There were lingering problems, the largest was Platini. It was observed that France played more together and was better organized without him. But it was also toothless. With him there was unpredictability and vulnerability under pressure – France was called ‘world champion in friendlies’, but official matches were not so great. There was perennial problems with the attacking line, which rarely played as expected and had difficulty scoring. Because of that Hidalgo experimented often and even tried Platini as a striker in 4-4-2 formation. Nothing really worked – Rocheteau was injured too often, Lacombe was almost out of the team before the World Cup, but new boys Bravo and Bellone were too young – both were 19 – to really take charge. At the end Lacombe was back, Bravo was out, and the best striker was considered Didier Six, the only French player based abroad. It was not real solution, but there was nothing else to do. On top of it, France did not have first rate goalkeeper – Baratelli was the most likely regular, but he was 34 and in recent years it became clear that he was not going better, but rather the opposite. France was considered number 2 team in the group and expected to go ahead, unless Czechoslovakia surprised them.

On top, from left: Baratelli, Ettori, Castaneda.

2nd row: Genghini, Tigana, Giresse.

3rd row: Amoros, Couriol, Mahut, Battiston.

4th row: Platini, Lacombe, Bellone, Girard.

5th row: Soler, Rocheteau, Janvion, Six.

Front: Lopez, Bossis, Trésor, Larios.

Head coach: Michel Hidalgo

Dominique Baratelli

26 December 1947 (aged 34)

Paris St-Germain

Manuel Amoros

1 February 1962 (aged 20)

AS Monaco

Patrick Battiston

12 March 1957 (aged 25)

St-Etienne

Maxime Bossis

26 June 1955 (aged 26)

Nantes

Gérard Janvion

21 August 1953 (aged 28)

St-Etienne

Christian Lopez

15 March 1953 (aged 29)

St-Etienne

Philippe Mahut

4 March 1956 (aged 26)

Metz

Marius Trésor

15 January 1950 (aged 32)

Girondins Bordeaux

Bernard Genghini

18 January 1958 (aged 24)

Sochaux

Michel Platini (c)

21 June 1955 (aged 26)

St-Etienne

René Girard

4 April 1954 (aged 28)

Girondins Bordeaux

Alain Giresse

2 August 1952 (aged 29)

Girondins Bordeaux

Jean-François Larios

27 August 1956 (aged 25)

St-Etienne

Jean Tigana

23 June 1955 (aged 26)

Girondins Bordeaux

Bruno Bellone

14 March 1962 (aged 20)

AS Monaco

Alain Couriol

24 October 1958 (aged 23)

AS Monaco

Bernard Lacombe

15 August 1952 (aged 29)

Girondins Bordeaux

Dominique Rocheteau

14 January 1955 (aged 27)

Paris St-Germain

Didier Six

21 August 1954 (aged 27)

VfB Stuttgart

Gérard Soler

29 March 1954 (aged 28)

Girondins Bordeaux

Jean Castaneda

20 March 1957 (aged 25)

St-Etienne

Jean-Luc Ettori

29 July 1955 (aged 26)

AS Monaco

Well, the problems were well known – generally, France depended quite a lot on the pressure, put by the opposition. If they were allowed to play their technical and pleasant football- it was another matter. Then there was the constant problem with the strikers, but Platini at least would be hitting the net. Trivia: except the goalkeepers, numbers were alphabetically by lines – except Michel Platini.

Czechoslovakia, like England, reached World Cup finals for the first time since 1970. Unlike England, Czechoslovakia had success during the 1970s, following weird amplitudes of highs and lows. Given their ‘cycles’, 1982 did not seem to be a peak time – on the other hand, nobody expected Czechoslovakia to win the 1976 European championship, so who was there to say when a peak may occur? But there was strong feeling that there was poorer talent now – Venglos appeared conservative, heavily depending on well known for years veterans. Experience was important, but the old boys were surely losing their edge. To keep them meant there were no young players challenging them. Venglos observed and evaluated players in unorthodox manner: he watched them at away games, saying that players’ worth really shows only when conditions are tough. Of course, experienced veterans played better than youngsters in such circumstances, and at the end they were chosen again and again to play for the national team. 1976 European champions were the backbone of the team – Panenka, Nehoda, Masny, Jurkemik, Barmos, Bicovsky – plus some second-raters of that time – Vojacek, Radimec, Stambachr, Kozak. There was a thought, that Anton Ondrus, now playing abroad, should have been in the team, since it was based on veterans and the goalkeepers were vulnerable. Czechoslovakia perhaps was able of some minor surprise – bumping out France or England, if one of the teams was not fully concentrated – but nothing more than that.

Head coach: Jozef Vengloš

Stanislav Seman

8 August 1952 (aged 29)

Lokomotiva Košice

František Jakubec

12 April 1956 (aged 26)

Bohemians Praha

Jan Fiala

19 May 1956 (aged 26)

Dukla Prague

Ladislav Jurkemik

20 July 1953 (aged 28)

Inter Bratislava

Jozef Barmoš

28 August 1954 (aged 27)

Inter Bratislava

Rostislav Vojáček

23 February 1949 (aged 33)

Baník Ostrava

Ján Kozák

17 April 1954 (aged 28)

Dukla Prague

Antonín Panenka

2 December 1948 (aged 33)

Rapid Wien

Ladislav Vízek

22 January 1955 (aged 27)

Dukla Prague

Tomáš Kříž

17 March 1959 (aged 23)

Dukla Prague

Zdeněk Nehoda (c)

9 May 1952 (aged 30)

Dukla Prague

Přemysl Bičovský

18 August 1950 (aged 31)

Bohemians Praha

Jan Berger

27 November 1955 (aged 26)

AC Sparta Prague

Libor Radimec

22 May 1950 (aged 32)

Baník Ostrava

Jozef Kukučka

13 March 1957 (aged 25)

Plastika Nitra

Pavel Chaloupka

4 May 1959 (aged 23)

Bohemians Praha

František Štambachr

13 February 1953 (aged 29)

Dukla Prague

Petr Janečka

25 November 1957 (aged 24)

Zbrojovka Brno

Marián Masný

13 August 1950 (aged 31)

Slovan Bratislava

Vlastimil Petržela

20 July 1953 (aged 28)

SK Slavia Praha

Zdeněk Hruška

25 July 1954 (aged 27)

Bohemians Praha

Karel Stromšík

12 April 1958 (aged 24)

Dukla Prague

Experience was the strongest point of this team. Age – the weakness. Very likely Czechoslovakia would be playing its best against similarly aged and slightly outdated England. This group was a battle of the coaches really and Josef Venglos was an old fox, quite capable of outwitting Greenwood and Hidalgo. With a bit of luck, however. No miracles were expected from Czechoslovakia – most likely to finish 3rd and out after the first stage. Trivia: Czechoslovakia was the first East European country to include foreign-based professional in its world cup team – Andrej Kvasnak, back in 1970. Now again they had ‘a foreigner’ – Antonin Panenka – but they lagged behind Poland and Hungary, which included professionals with fewer inhibitions.

Kuwait was the obvious outsider. Nothing was known about this team and most likely there was not much to know anyway: a country, trying to develop the game from scratch. Kuwait had plenty of petro-dollars, so it was easy to start a program. Brazilians were hired to coach a national team like no other – a group of players, like a club-team, trying to play as many as possible international games. Playing everywhere and against everybody, which meant playing a lot exactly with clubs. One result was not liked by the well developed countries: suddenly the players of Kuwait had more matches for the national team then big stars from Europe and South America. Apart from that, it was Brazilian influenced football – Mario Zagalo was hired to coach Kuwait back in 1976 and when his contract ended, his assistant Carlos Alberto Parreira took over and qualified Kuwait to the finals. The whole ambition was to play well and with spirit – if they managed to get 3 points, like Tunisia in Argentina, we will be happy, said Parreira. The team was training since 1979 exactly like a club-team: all together, no changes. Expected to finish last, most likely without getting even a point.

Head coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

Ahmed Al-Tarabulsi

22 March 1947 (aged 35)

Kuwait SC

Naeem Saad

1 October 1957 (aged 24)

Al Tadamun SC

Mahboub Juma’a

17 September 1955 (aged 26)

Al-Salmiya SC

Jamal Al-Qabendi

7 April 1959 (aged 23)

Kazma SC

Waleed Al-Jasem

18 November 1959 (aged 22)

Kuwait SC

Saad Al-Houti (c)

24 May 1954 (aged 28)

Kuwait SC

Fathi Kameel

23 May 1955 (aged 27)

Al Tadamun SC

Abdullah Al-Buloushi

16 February 1960 (aged 22)

Al-Arabi SC

Jasem Yaqoub

25 October 1953 (aged 28)

Al-Qadsia SC

Abdulaziz Al-Anberi

3 January 1954 (aged 28)

Kuwait SC

Nassir Al-Ghanim

4 April 1961 (aged 21)

Kazma SC

Yussef Al-Suwayed

20 September 1958 (aged 23)

Kazma SC

Mubarak Marzouq

1 January 1961 (aged 21)

Al Tadamun SC

Abdullah Mayouf

3 December 1953 (aged 28)

Kazma SC

Sami Al-Hashash

15 September 1959 (aged 22)

Al-Arabi SC

Faisal Al-Dakhil

13 August 1957 (aged 24)

Al-Qadsia SC

Hamoud Al-Shemmari

26 September 1960 (aged 21)

Kazma SC

Mohammed Karam

1 January 1955 (aged 27)

Al-Arabi SC

Muayad Al-Haddad

1 January 1960 (aged 22)

Khaitan SC

Abdulaziz Al-Buloushi

4 December 1962 (aged 19)

Al-Qadsia SC

Adam Marjam

23 September 1957 (aged 24)

Kazma SC

Jasem Bahman

15 February 1958 (aged 24)

Al-Qadsia SC

The team attracted no real interest – even the suspect African look of some of the players was not put under scrutiny. Unknown team, mostly exotic addition to the finalists. Let them play a bit, get trashed by the big Europeans and learn, if they can. Carlos Parreira did not think different: if his team was able to produce a bit of surprise, that would be great. Spanish heat was on their side, perhaps their strongest thing – his players were familiar and comfortable with heat. Trivia: Kuwait brought a camel as a talisman. The camel was going to the games. The Emir of Kuwait too.

February 9, 2017February 9, 2017

Group 3

Argentina and Belgium played the very first match not only of this group, but of the 1982 finals – reigning world champions had the privilege to open the championship. It was a worthy opening, it seemed, alas… injured Maradona was not a sure starter. Menotti said he cannot risk and all depends on the doctors. But Maradona came on the pitch. Belgium had much bigger problems – some were already known: Cools was out and in the last moment Vandereycken had to be replaced. Lozano did not get Belgian citizenship. Meews carried on one match disqualification to the world cup. Van Moer was unable to adapt to the Spanish heat. Francois van der Elst arrived injured from England and was still unable to play. Finally, Guy Thys felt that there was no point fielding Renquin without his usual partner Meews. Suddenly, Belgium looked impoverished and not even remotely up to the task of facing Maradona-led Argentina. But after referee blew his whistle the picture was very different.

Argentina showed good football only briefly at the beginning of the match. Maradona was carefully watched and met by a swarm of Belgian players, who left him no room. Belgium was tactically perfect and Argentina faded away. In the 63rd minute Vanderbergh scored and Argentina had no answer. At the end – Belgium 1 – Argentina 0. First match, first upset. A sensation even. After the game Fillol and Menotti said they felt that Vanderbergh was offside when he scored, but a replay did not make it clearer – it was not an obvious case of offside. Menotti was a bit critical of the linesmen, but the reason for the loss was, to him, his own team lacking fighting spirit. Thys happily praised his boys for their collective approach and following his tactics to the letter.

The second match destroyed the modest aims of El Salvador – there was no question the Salvadorians were no match to Hungary, but they wanted to better their 1970 record: three losses and 0-9 goal difference.

They succeeded in one aspect: scored there first World Cup goal. But received 10. Instantly El Salvador became the weakest team at this finals, comparable only to Zaire 1974 and most likely even worse. As for Hungary – they did not look better than expected, but did what had to be done to keep a chance for going to the second round: huge victory against El Salvador. In case of equal points, Hungary had goal-difference advantage.

Argentina – Hungary proceeded ‘normally’: Hungary proved that it was not a miracle team, but a modest one. Argentina dominated, even looked strong as it was in 1978.

The first half ended with Argentina leading 2-0, which was made 4-0 by the 62nd minute. Eventually, Hungary scored a goal, but neither mattered, nor changed the general impression of the match. Menotti was more than generous with his praise – he said he was amazed and surprised how good his team really was. Tarantini and Valdano were injured and had to substituted, but seemingly the team benefited from that. The Hungarians did not very upset, which surprised the journalists, but such cool reaction had to be expected – not only Meszoly knew the limitations of his squad, but for the moment nothing strange happened. They still had a chance to go ahead and not their match with Argentina, but the next one – Belgium vs El Salvador – was the really important one for their fate.

Which went exactly in favour of Hungary. Thys wanted his team to score as much as possible against El Salvador, but there was something well known: Belgium was not a high scoring team. El Salvador was obviously so weak, that the match looked a mere formality and the Belgians were not very motivated. Coeck scored an early goal in the 18th minute, which perhaps was counter-productive, for it lulled the Belgian team entirely – the match ended 1-0, a result curiously benefiting mostly Argentina. Yes, Belgium had a perfect record so far, if they lost to Hungary, they were out. Argentina, on the other hand, benefited from any result of Belgium – Hungary, for there was no doubt they were going to win against El Salvador. Now Hungarian calm reaction to their otherwise devastating loss to Argentina was perfectly clear: their most important match was against Belgium and they had to win. Possible. With motivation and luck.

Belgium – Hungary started as expected: Hungary was more active and dangerous and scored in the 28th minute. After that luck betrayed them – they had two more chances and missed. But Belgium had no luck either – in the beginning of the second half Pfaff and Gerets clashed into each other, Gerets was heavily injured and had to be replaced. Injuries plagued Belgium – Pfaff suffered to the end of the match, later, when Belgium used its substitutes, Coeck was injured and had to limp to the last whistle useless. But Thys made his important substitute meantime, fielding van Moer for the first time at this championship. The veteran instantly took the match under his control and eventually Czerniatinsky equalized in the 76th minute. At the end – 1-1, Belgium going ahead and Hungary – out.

Argentina – El Salvador was a mere protocol, leaving no impressions. Passarella scored from a penalty in the first half and Bertoni added one more goal in the second. If anything, El Salvador failed in its extremely modest aim to finish better than in 1970: they lost again all their matches, but ended with worse goal-difference. Well, they scored their first world cup finals goal, if it was a consolation.

Belgium 3 2 1 0 3 1 +2 5

Argentina 3 2 0 1 6 2 +4 4

Hungary 3 1 1 1 12 6 +6 3

El Salvador 3 0 0 3 1 13 −12 0

Despite the sensation with which the group started, it ended as expected and predicted. So far Belgium appeared to be the most interesting, but also most unlucky team – if they managed to get the string of injured players fit for the second round, they would have been quite dangerous. Argentina was underperforming, but nothing alarming yet – surely, they will come to their real strength in the second round. Hungary perhaps got more than expected from their team, coming close to qualifying. In any case, nothing to be ashamed of. Made a scoring record too.

February 5, 2017February 5, 2017

Group 3

Group 3. Argentina was the big favourite, one of the prime candidates for winning the world title. Belgium expected to finish second. Hungary most likely third, unless surprising everybody with some strong play and bumping out Belgium. El Salvador – the hopeless outsider. Easy group at the least for the reigning world champions.

Argentina came as major favourite – the team seem stronger than the one winning the World Cup 4 years ago. Maradona was the biggest addition, of course. But also some other under-20 World champions, notably Diaz. This time Menotti was not excluding foreign-based players, but made everything possible to prevent any foreign transfer of his young players – Maradona, Diaz, Barbas, Calderon, and Hernandez. The selection was formidable.

Head coach: César Luis Menotti

Osvaldo Ardiles

3 August 1952 (aged 29)

Tottenham Hotspur

Héctor Baley

16 November 1950 (aged 31)

Talleres de Córdoba

Juan Barbas

23 August 1959 (aged 22)

Racing

Daniel Bertoni

14 March 1955 (aged 27)

Fiorentina

Gabriel Calderón

7 February 1960 (aged 22)

Independiente

Ramón Díaz

29 August 1959 (aged 22)

River Plate

Ubaldo Fillol

21 July 1950 (aged 31)

River Plate

Luis Galván

24 February 1948 (aged 34)

Talleres de Córdoba

Américo Gallego

24 May 1955 (aged 27)

River Plate

Diego Maradona

30 October 1960 (aged 21)

Boca Juniors

Mario Kempes

15 July 1954 (aged 27)

River Plate

Patricio Hernández

16 August 1956 (aged 25)

Estudiantes

Julio Olarticoechea

18 October 1958 (aged 23)

River Plate

Jorge Olguín

17 May 1952 (aged 30)

Independiente

Daniel Passarella (c)

25 May 1953 (aged 29)

River Plate

Nery Pumpido

30 July 1957 (aged 24)

Veléz Sársfield

Santiago Santamaría

22 August 1952 (aged 29)

Newell’s Old Boys

Alberto Tarantini

3 December 1955 (aged 26)

River Plate

Enzo Trossero

23 May 1953 (aged 29)

Independiente

Jorge Valdano

4 October 1955 (aged 26)

Real Zaragoza

José Daniel Valencia

3 October 1955 (aged 26)

Talleres de Córdoba

José Van Tuyne

13 December 1954 (aged 27)

Racing

If there were weaknesses, they were largely psychological – mainly, the Faulkland Islands War. Mario Kempes struggled with his form and may be he was not at his best. Maradona had an injury, but minor one. Tarantini was too in questionable shape, for he had problems with finding a team to play for after his disastrous spell in England. Ardiles was in a middle of difficult negotiations of new contract with Tottenham Hotspur – the Faulkland War was the biggest obstacle. The real concern was lack of wingers – Menotti declined the advocacy of Ardiles and did not invite Ricardo Villa. He felt Bertoni and Diaz could cover the flanks. On the positive side was one mega-factor – Maradona. Some observers argued that he was grossly overrated, but they were minority. Ardiles was at his finest, 9 players were actual world champions, Passarella was excellent captain and leader of the team. As a trivia, once again Argentina gave shirt numbers alphabetically, so Ardiles was number 1 and the goalkeeper Fillol – number 7. The only exception was made for Maradona he had to be number 12, but got his favourite number 10 and Herhandez took number 12. Holland of 1974 did the same – all got alphabetical numbers except Cruijff. Maradona was already considered bigger than Cruijff and the swap of numbers was one of the proves.

Belgium was flying on the wings of their wonderful performance at the 1980 European championship. The team had practically no changes and was very well oiled. Guy Thys practically had two problems – the captain Cools was out and the Belgian Parliament refused to naturalize Spanish-born midfielder Juan Lozano. Minor problems. Belgium was expected to finish second – it was strong team, but perhaps unable of challenging Argentina.

Head coach: Guy Thys

Jean-Marie Pfaff

4 December 1953 (aged 28)

Beveren

Eric Gerets (c)

18 May 1954 (aged 28)

Standard Liège

Luc Millecamps

10 September 1951 (aged 30)

K.S.V. Waregem

Walter Meeuws

11 July 1951 (aged 30)

Standard Liège

Michel Renquin

3 November 1955 (aged 26)

Anderlecht

Franky Vercauteren

28 October 1956 (aged 25)

Anderlecht

Jos Daerden

26 November 1954 (aged 27)

Standard Liège

Wilfried Van Moer

1 March 1945 (aged 37)

Beveren

Erwin Vandenbergh

26 January 1959 (aged 23)

Lierse

Ludo Coeck

25 September 1955 (aged 26)

Anderlecht

Jan Ceulemans

28 February 1957 (aged 25)

Club Brugge

Theo Custers

10 August 1950 (aged 31)

Espanyol

François Van Der Elst

1 December 1954 (aged 27)

West Ham United

Marc Baecke

24 July 1956 (aged 25)

Beveren

Maurits De Schrijver

26 June 1951 (aged 30)

K.S.C. Lokeren

Gerard Plessers

30 March 1959 (aged 23)

Standard Liège

René Verheyen

20 March 1952 (aged 30)

K.S.C. Lokeren

Raymond Mommens

27 December 1958 (aged 23)

K.S.C. Lokeren

Marc Millecamps

9 October 1950 (aged 31)

K.S.V. Waregem

Guy Vandersmissen

25 December 1957 (aged 24)

Standard Liège

Alexandre Czerniatynski

28 July 1960 (aged 21)

Antwerp

Jacky Munaron

8 September 1956 (aged 25)

Anderlecht

Minuses. Traditionally short pool of talent. Injuries plagued the squad in the last moment and there was no way to replace regulars with others. Rene Vandereycken was injured in the last friendly with Bulgaria and had to be dropped from the selection for the finals and replaced by Jozef Dearden. His absence placed new emphasis on the veteran van Moer, who preferred to have Lozano on the benchm ready to replace him in the second half, but Lozano was out for he did not get Belgian citizenship. Ironically, journalists and public opinion forced Thys to bring back in the national team van Moer two years earlier – now it was the coach defending van Moer, who was almost 38-years old, from his former advocates. They felt now he was too old and useless. Anyhow, Belgium was tough enough and since the team together for so long, they knew perfectly what to do – masters of collective play and tactically wise team. No internap personal problems – Belgium was perhaps the most relaxed team. Thys did not even run closed training camp. Trivia: van Moer was not just the only Belgian player, who played at world cup finals before, but the only player at this finals, who played in Mexico 1970.

Hungary – most likely third. There was hope back in 1978 that Hungary may develop a strong squad, but with time it became clear it was not going to happen. In fact, the current team was perhaps weaker than the 1978 vintage: the key players were the same and most of them were over 30 now. With luck – a massive dose of luck – Hungary could have edged Belgium, that was all.

Head coach: Kálmán Mészöly

Ferenc Mészáros

11 April 1950 (aged 32)

Sporting Clube de Portugal

Győző Martos

15 December 1949 (aged 32)

Waterschei SV Thor

László Bálint

1 February 1948 (aged 34)

Toulouse FC

József Tóth

2 December 1951 (aged 30)

Újpesti Dózsa

Sándor Müller

21 September 1948 (aged 33)

Hércules Alicante

Imre Garaba

29 July 1958 (aged 23)

Budapest Honvéd

László Fazekas

15 October 1947 (aged 34)

Royal Antwerp FC

Tibor Nyilasi (c)

18 January 1955 (aged 27)

Ferencvárosi TC

András Törőcsik

1 May 1955 (aged 27)

Újpesti Dózsa

László Kiss

12 March 1956 (aged 26)

Vasas SC

Gábor Pölöskei

11 October 1961 (aged 20)

Ferencvárosi TC

Lázár Szentes

12 December 1955 (aged 26)

Rába ETO Győr

Tibor Rab

2 October 1955 (aged 26)

Ferencvárosi TC

Sándor Sallai

26 March 1960 (aged 22)

Debreceni VSC

Béla Bodonyi

14 September 1956 (aged 25)

Budapest Honvéd

Ferenc Csongrádi

29 March 1956 (aged 26)

Videoton FC Fehérvár

Károly Csapó

23 February 1952 (aged 30)

Tatabányai Bányász

Attila Kerekes

4 April 1954 (aged 28)

Békéscsabai Előre FC

József Varga

9 October 1954 (aged 27)

Budapest Honvéd

József Csuhay

12 July 1957 (aged 24)

Videoton FC Fehérvár

Béla Katzirz

27 July 1953 (aged 28)

Pécsi MFC

Imre Kiss

10 August 1957 (aged 24)

Tatabányai Bányász

The big minus was that Hungary did not become stronger team after 1978. Apparently, there was not enough young talent on the level of the veterans – and so the old guys not only stayed, but were still the key players. Not only well over 30, but also playing abroad and not always available for camps and friendlies. The defensive line was too old and may be too slow because of that. The big stars – Nyilasi and Torocsik – seemingly reached the limits of their potential and were not going to be better, especially Torocsik. On the positive side, there was plenty of experience – in a good day, Hungary may be able to overcome Belgium. With some strong play and luck could go to the next round. Trivia: 5 foreign-based professionals – the biggest number a East European team ever selected (excluding Yugoslavia).

El Salvador – unknown outsider. Just happy to play at the finals for a second time. Salvadorian players were entirely unknown and there was hardly anything to discuss about them. They had just a single foreign-based player: the 23-years old defender Jaime Rodriguez, playing for Bayer (Uerdingen, West Germany).

Head coach: Pipo Rodríguez

Luis Guevara Mora

2 September 1961 (aged 20)

Platense Municipal

Mario Castillo

30 October 1951 (aged 30)

Santiagueño

José Francisco Jovel

26 May 1951 (aged 31)

Águila

Carlos Recinos

30 June 1950 (aged 31)

FAS

Ramón Fagoaga

12 January 1952 (aged 30)

Atlético Marte

Joaquín Ventura

27 October 1956 (aged 25)

Santiagueño

Silvio Aquino

30 June 1949 (aged 32)

Alianza

José Luis Rugamas

5 June 1953 (aged 29)

Atlético Marte

Ever Hernández

11 December 1958 (aged 23)

Santiagueño

Norberto Huezo (c)

6 June 1956 (aged 26)

Palencia

Mágico González

13 March 1957 (aged 25)

Cadiz

Francisco Osorto

20 March 1957 (aged 25)

Santiagueño

José María Rivas

12 May 1958 (aged 24)

Alianza

Luis Ramírez

6 January 1954 (aged 28)

Atlético Marte

Jaime Rodríguez

17 January 1959 (aged 23)

Bayer Uerdingen

Mauricio Alfaro

13 February 1956 (aged 26)

Platense Municipal

Guillermo Ragazzone

5 January 1956 (aged 26)

Atlético Marte

Miguel Ángel Díaz

27 January 1957 (aged 25)

Atlético Marte

Eduardo Hernández

31 January 1958 (aged 24)

Santiagueño

José Luis Munguía

28 October 1959 (aged 22)

FAS

The only aim, according to the coach Pipo Rodriguez, was to better the record of 1970 finals. No, not hoping to get a point, but to finish with better goal-difference, which in 1970 was 0-9. There was nothing positive, but to the negative was added the dismissal from the squad of the captain Huezo, who expressed his unhappiness from having been substituted in a friendly in rather strong way. However, he was brought back for the finals. The rest is trivia – El Salvador managed to select only 20 players, having not enough options for standard 22. The goalkeeper Luis Guevara Mora came to football by sheer accident – three years before he was playing basketball in his schoolyard, when a team lacking goalkeeper for a game in the same yard asked him to join – and from there to World Cup finals.