[custom_adv]
This tournament was marred by politics, controversy, an atmosphere of suspicion, and alleged interference and match fixing by the Argentinian authoritarian military government, who were using this tournament as an opportunity for nationalistic propaganda, and for the relatively new military junta to seek legitimacy on the world stage.
A hat-trick by Rob Rensenbrink, two of them from the penalty spot, confirmed the considerable gulf in class between themselves and the Asian qualifiers. The foundation of national leagues in England, Italy, Spain, and South America helped formalize professional football. Legendary clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United were established during this period.
