THE GOLDEN YEARS
Italy won two World Cups on the trot, with their first victory on home soil in 40-degree heat. There was in fact a fair deal of change however between the two teams that played these finals. This is a testament to Italy’s tradition of producing strong generations of footballers continuously throughout this era.
Whilst a tight win over Czechoslovakia in 1934 was clinched in extra-time, a more Caesarian attitude was adopted in the final as they beat Hungary 4-2 in 90 minutes to claim the double. “Veni, vidi, vici” jumped out of the hearts of millions of Italians but unfortunately, they would have to wait almost half a century and endure WWII to feel the same way again.
It is certainly not the case that World Cups are ever predictable. However, much can be told about a team’s form from the earlier stages of the competition. Italy buck the trend in this regard and surprised the bookies after an unsteady start. With three draws in group stage, they only progressed to the knockouts on goal difference, narrowly edging out Cameroon.
Eventually the Italians fell into their natural stride, defeating Argentina, Brazil and a very strong Polish side to reach the final against West Germany. The final was not plain sailing for Italy though, with a goalless first half and a missed penalty. Many memories of the loss in the third-place match in the previous World Cup (1978) arose as Italy bit its nails to the quick. Nevertheless, Italy prevailed 3-1 to win their third World Cup comfortably in the end.
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SPORT
1934 & 1938: the double
1982: the unexpected World Cup
IMAGE SOURCE: KAREN HORTON/FLICKR