World Cup 1990 - World Cup Hosts Italy

This was the year when the back pass spoilt the World Cup and as such the changes made have had a real positive impact on the game. Cameroon thrilled and Ireland were the surprise package reaching the quarter finals. This was also the last World Cup in which two points were awarded for winning a group game.

A player that shot to fame was Roger Milla of the Cameroon after scoring two magnificent goals and became an instant favourite among neutral fans around the world. He played a big part in helping Cameroon turn the game against England when he came on at half-time, but two late penalties by Lineker ended the dream for the Lions.

England once again flattered to deceive and came through the group stage in three tight matches followed by three more matches that went to extra-time, the last against West Germany went to penalties.

1990 saw some interesting players come to the fore, Milla, Goycoechea and Schillaci to name just three with the last named Schillaci scored six goals and became topscorer. He scored in six different matches and opened his account as a substitute against Austria and closed it with a goal against England that secured bronze medals for Italy.

West Germany made the final in three consecutive World Cups and they made it third time lucky beating Argentina 1-0 with Matthäus probably the best player of the tournament. West Germany had two strong forwards in Völler and Klinsmann, plus a very good left-back in Brehme and as always with German teams a very good defence.