World Cup 1971

Spain were the first hosts of the World Cup but they have never won the title, till date.

First World Cup: Oct 1971

HT Image

Place: Barcelona (Spain)

Teams: 10

Spain were the first hosts of the World Cup. Ironically, they have never won the title — the only team in the top six not to do so. Ten teams participated, the fewest ever in the fray.

Japan beat Holland 1-0 for the first and only time in a World Cup match. The win paved the way for eventual champions Pakistan entry into the semi-finals, where they beat India 2-1.

Pakistan watched the Holland-Japan match and gifted Pakistan-made hockey sticks to Japan after the tie.