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