The Magical Magyars, with the great Ferenc Puskas in their ranks, were widely tipped to win the 1954 World Cup in Switzerland. File photo: AFPFIFA World Cup is the ultimate prize in world football. To be part of the World Cup-winning squad is the dream of every footballer. There have been a few great teams who failed in their pursuit of glory in the quadrennial showpiece event. Onmanorama takes a look at three such extremely talented sides.
Brazil, 1982
Zico celebrates after scoring a goal against Argentina in the 1982 World Cup. File photo: AFPAsk any football lover about his/her favourite national team of all time and Tele Santana's Selecao of 1982 is likely to be the most common answer. Brazil simply played a stunning attacking game in Spain. The midfield quartet of Zico, Socrates, Toninho Cerezo and Falcao captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
Midfield maestro Socrates led Brazil at the 1982 World Cup. File photo: AFPIt was a pity that a Paolo Rossi hat-trick ended their run in the second round. Italy qualified for the semifinals with a thrilling 3-2 win and went on to clinch the tournament, but Brazil won the hearts of one and all with their magical display.
Hungary, 1954
The Magical Magyars, with the great Ferenc Puskas in their ranks, were widely tipped to lift the Cup in Switzerland. They lived up to their reputation, dismantling their rivals with consummate ease. Hungary drubbed West Germany 8-3 in the group stage and were the overwhelming favourites going into the final. But this time around, the Germans were ready for Puskas & Co. Despite going down 0-2 by the eighth minute, Germany fought back to prevail 3-2 in the final labelled as 'The Miracle of Berne' to win their maiden World Cup.
Netherlands, 1974
Johan Cruyff's Oranje mesmerised the world with their 'Total Football' in the 1974 edition held in West Germany. File photo: AFPJohan Cruyff's Oranje mesmerised the world with their 'Total Football' in the 1974 edition held in West Germany. The Netherlands breezed through the opening and second rounds to set up a title clash with the hosts. The Dutch shot into lead in the opening minute through a penalty by Johan Neeskens at the Olympic Stadium in Munich. But Franz Beckenbauer's Germany drew level midway through the first half with Paul Breitner converting a spot kick. Gerd Muller's strike on the stroke of half-time put the Germans ahead and that was how it finished despite the best efforts of the Dutch.
