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Showing posts from June, 2026

1986 World Cup, The Embryo of the Modern World Cup

  In many ways, the 1986 World Cup can be regarded as the precursor to the modern era of football’s biggest tournament. This applies not only to the competition format but also to other features that have since become common, such as the emergence of dark horses capable of reaching the semi-finals and the frequent surprises that characterize the finals today. Originally, the 1986 edition was not supposed to be hosted by Mexico. FIFA had awarded the tournament to Colombia in 1974. However, the South American nation withdrew in1983 due to financial constraints. Colombia was only willing to stage a 16-team tournament, while FIFA had already expanded the competition to 24 teams beginning with Spain 1982. As a result, the world governing body quickly sought a replacement host. Three CONCACAF nations submitted bids: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ultimately, Mexico was selected. 1986 World Cup Facts and Trivia Compared to other editions, the 1986 tournament may not boast ...