1954 was all about goals, the unexpected defeat of Hungary (they had recorded 23 wins and four draws during the preceding four years) and the emergence of Germany as a world power in Football.
In 26 matches 140 goals were scored (an average of over five per game). The quarter-final between Switzerland and Austria produced 12 goals - the Swiss led 3-0 inside 19 minutes, conceded five during a ten-minute spell before half-time and ended up losing 7-5.
Puskas vs Korea
Korea Republic contributed in no small manner to the goalfest. Their journey to Switzerland was arduous and for their pains they lost 9-0 to Hungary and 7-0 to Turkey.
In their first quest for World Cup glory Scotland, featuring Willie Ormond and Tommy Docherty, went down 1-0 to Austria before getting 7 off Uruguay.
The tournament gave us both The Battle of Berne (an ill tempered encounter between Hungary and Brazil in which the fighting continued into the tunnel and dressing rooms) and later The Miracle of Berne.
In the final West Germany came back from 2 down to beat Hungary. There was further drama as Puskas had a late goal inexplicably ruled out (or disallowed for offside, depending where your sympathies lie).
In 26 matches 140 goals were scored (an average of over five per game). The quarter-final between Switzerland and Austria produced 12 goals - the Swiss led 3-0 inside 19 minutes, conceded five during a ten-minute spell before half-time and ended up losing 7-5.
Puskas vs Korea
Korea Republic contributed in no small manner to the goalfest. Their journey to Switzerland was arduous and for their pains they lost 9-0 to Hungary and 7-0 to Turkey.
In their first quest for World Cup glory Scotland, featuring Willie Ormond and Tommy Docherty, went down 1-0 to Austria before getting 7 off Uruguay.
The tournament gave us both The Battle of Berne (an ill tempered encounter between Hungary and Brazil in which the fighting continued into the tunnel and dressing rooms) and later The Miracle of Berne.
In the final West Germany came back from 2 down to beat Hungary. There was further drama as Puskas had a late goal inexplicably ruled out (or disallowed for offside, depending where your sympathies lie).
