It was the first to have a format which was something similar to what we’re familiar with today; the first to be covered properly on television; and the first to feature the skills of Pele.
Inspired by the 17 year old, Brazil won all six of their matches to lift the trophy for the first time, culminating in a 5-2 win over the hosts.
Northern Ireland made their debut appearance, having knocked out Italy in qualifying, and reached the quarter finals before going down 4-0 to France.
The Africa/Asia qualifying section became something of a fiasco when all of Israel’s prospective opponents refused to play them. Rather than let Israel qualify without kicking a ball, FIFA randomly drew Wales to face them in a play-off.
The Welsh won it, then reached the quarter finals where Brazil beat them by a single goal, scored by Pele with 17 minutes to go.
Just Fontaine of France made history by scoring 13 goals, still the most by any player in a single World Cup.
