The World Cup returned in 1986 to the altitude, vivid colours and scorching heat of Mexico. The hosts were never likely to win, but did make it to the quarter finals where West Germany only prevailed on penalties. The quarter finals were possibly the most intriguing part of the competition, with France winning (also on penalties) against a Brazil side who were a shadow of the Mexico '70 stars. Yet another quarter final, Belgium v Spain, had to be resolved by a shoot-out, leaving just one game that was decided in normal time: Argentina v England.

Such a clash had been eagerly anticipated for reasons a long way from football, with Britain having been at war with Argentina some 4 years before. Both of Argentina's goals - one controversial, the other sublime - came from the undoubted star of the tournament, Diego Maradona. A further two goals from Maradona in the semi-final against Belgium saw Argentina into the final with the Germans where in front of nearly 115,000 spectators at the Azteca Stadium, Argentina won a thrilling final 3-2.

More World Cup Champions

Brazil '02

France '98

USA '94

Italy '90

Mexico '86

Spain '82

Argentina '78

West Germany '74

Mexico '70

England '66

Chile '62

Sweden '58

Switzerland '54

France '38

Italy '32

Uruguay '30