History of the World Cup

The Early Years
The 1934 World Cup took place in Italy, and was actually the very first World Cup to feature a qualification stage, only 16 teams qualified for the competition, and this process was repeated right up until the 1982 finals, where the number increased to 32. Uruguay, who had won the trophy in 1930, were still upset about the poor European showing at their hosted finals, and therefore boycotted Italy 1934. Bolivia and Paraguay were absent, which meant that powerhouses Argentina and Brazil were allowed to progress directly to the finals without having to play a single game!

The competition made history as the first African team to compete were included, Egypt, however, they lost to the very strong Hungary in the first round. Not surprisingly, Italy won the competition fairly comfortably, but a scandal hit the football world afterwards. The hosts were said to have won the competition unfairly, and biased officiating took place in the eyes of many. Benito Mussolini was said to have influenced the choice of referees for his country’s matches. In 1938, the tournament was held in Europe, much to the dismay of teams from South America – Uruguay and Argentina boycotted. Only 15 nations competed due to Austria’s involvement in the Anschluss in April 1983, and England declining the free space. France ended up hosting the competition, however it was Italy who retained their title, defeating Hungary in the final. Again, the World Cup made history, as Polish striker Ernest Willimowski became the first place to score four goals in the competition during his team’s 6-5 defeat to Brazil. He record was later equalled by other players, however was only bettered in the 1994 World Cup, some 56 years later.

Everyone will be looking to Spain as favourites, they are the current European champions and have class players such as Torres, Villa and Iniesta. England have the potential to perform well but always seem to snap under the pressure of the big tournaments, despite an impressive qualifying campaign. Or will the trophy finally be going back to South America? Argentina and Brazil always pose a threat and possess some of the greatest players in the world - but can they overcome the might of the Europeans?
Penalty Shootout Games

Totesport online betting odds

Virginia Soccer Association News Gardner-Webb soccer adds 12 recruits - Shelby Star Gardner-Webb soccer adds 12 recruits Shelby Star As a freshman at Hanover, Hooe earned Virginia High School League First-Team All-District and Region Honorable Mention accolades. “We are very excited to add Shelby to our soccer program,â€� said Coach Mounce. “She is a quick frontrunner who has the ... Read more... Eye on POY: West Virginia girls soccer - ESPNHS.com (blog) Eye on POY: West Virginia girls soccer ESPNHS.com (blog) 2011 NSCAA Girls High School Scholar Athlete of the Year. 2011 NSCAA State Player of the Year. 2011 West Virginia Soccer Coaches Association Class AAA Player of the Year. 2011 West Virginia Sports Writers Association Class AAA Player of the Year. and more » Read more... Total Soccer Show: Laying Down the Laws - Richmond.com Total Soccer Show: Laying Down the Laws Richmond.com The big kickoff of the Spring 2012 Central Virginia Soccer Association season is less than a month away. Before February is over, around 2000 amateur soccer teams in the Richmond area will begin battle, with each other and—more often than not—with ... Read more... Fellowship Trio Earns Soccer Scholarships - Patch.com Fellowship Trio Earns Soccer Scholarships Patch.com 1: Emma and Elizabeth with the University of Georgia and Emily with the University of Virginia. "It is indeed a great honor for these three stellar student-athletes as well as for Fellowship," said FCS girls soccer coach Trip Hughes. Read more... "Tim Tebow Law" Would Let Homeschooled Virginia Kids Play Public School Sports ... - Reason Online (blog) Reason Online (blog) "Tim Tebow Law" Would Let Homeschooled Virginia Kids Play Public School Sports ... Reason Online (blog) The Governor of Virginia supports the bill, but the 60000-strong Teacher's Association is not keen for reasons both tentatively practical (public schools say their belts are right enough as it is) and school spirit-heavy (you didn't want to be a part ... and more » Read more...