In Argentina, the 11th season of World Cup football took place in 1978. Many countries decided to boycott the competition, condemning General Videla’s authoritarianism and human rights abuses. Then the Federation Internationale de Football Association (‘FIFA’) intervened and brokered a compromise.
After the first round of matches, Italy, Netherlands, Brazil, West Germany, Austria, Argentina, Poland and Peru advanced to the second round. At the end of the second round, Argentina and Brazil were tied with 5 points each. Argentina then earned a place in the finals based on more goals. On the other hand, the Netherlands qualified for the World Cup finals for the second time after beating Austria and Italy.
Argentina and Netherlands clashed in a thrilling final. At the end of the game, both teams were tied 1–1. Then in overtime, Argentina’s Mario Kempes and Bertoni scored a goal each. Argentina eventually won 3–1 and won the World Cup for the first time.
Argentine player Mario Kempes, who scored 6 goals in this series, won the ‘Golden Shoe’ award.
‘Extra Time’
Own soil advantage
Argentina became the fifth team to host the World Cup and win the title on home soil. Before this, Uruguay (1930), Italy (1934), England (1966) and West Germany (1974) won the honour.
World Football Countdown: 15
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