World Cup countdown - 78 days to go

Prior to the upcoming showpiece in Brazil, the last time a South American country staged the World Cup came back in 1978.

Prior to the upcoming showpiece in Brazil, the last time a South American country staged the World Cup came back in 1978.

All eyes turned to Argentina, the fellow South American football powerhouse hosting the World Cup for the first time that year, a tournament which saw a host nation crowned champions in their own country for just the fifth time as they defeated the Netherlands 3-1 after extra time in the Final.

The 1978 World Cup saw 102 goals scored across the 38 matches, although it was not a tournament void of controversy and conspiracy theories, arguably the most notable case being around Argentina-s path to the Final which saw them defeat Peru 6-0 to progress to the decider, ultimately preventing Brazil from getting through.

But regardless of everything that transpired, what will go down in the history books is that Argentina lifted the Cup in front of their legion of adoring home fans.

1978 World Cup Winners - Argentina Runners Up - Netherlands Third - Brazil Fourth - Italy

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