History of Soccer

Led by the extraordinary genius of Pelé, Brazil’s 1970 team was the embodiment of unique Brazilian style built on flair and raw skill. Immortalized in their 4–1 thrashing of former two-time world champions Italy.

Cameroon, one of the World Cup’s newest entrants, and veteran goal scorer Roger Milla beat defending champion Argentina in their first game, leading to one of the most remarkable tournaments of modern times.

The fates of three men who would ultimately end up in the same club team defined the 1998 World Cup. David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane and Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima enjoyed very contrasting fortunes.

Diego Maradona’s career played out over 16 years, three continents, and five World Cups. His is a tale of rejection, shame, redemption, revenge, and glory.

The world’s two most successful football nations - host nation Brazil and Germany - collided in the semi-finals with a shuddering impact. At the final whistle, it was Germany’s win, 7-1; it was a national nightmare for Brazil, from which it has since struggled to recover.

Gerard Houllier went from schoolteacher to treble-winning manager with Liverpool FC. Interviewed by Sky Sports correspondent and reporter, Geoff Shreeves, Houllier reveals how the game he loves, almost killed him.