Vuvuzela

The 2010 World Cup in South Africa has hit the world like a storm with millions of people glued to tv sets to watch their star players and favourite national team playing. Malta being no less with the local favourites England and Italy both gaining precious draws in albeit different circumstances. Amidst all this the vuvuzela has grabbed quite a few headlines because of the loud noise it emits and there seems to be a divide on whether they should be banned or not with Fifa taking a stance that they are there to remain. Following are some interesting facts related to the current World Cup.


1. Brasil is the only South American team to win a World Cup in Europe, America and Asia.

2. European teams haven't won a world cup outside Europe.

3. Only Italy - 1934 and 1938 and Brazil - 1958 and 1962 have won two consecutive World Cups in a row.

4. Argentina, Uruguay, Italy, West Germany, England and France won the trophy as hosts. Brazil lost at home in 1950.

5. Two finals were decided in penalties: 1994 and 2006.

6. Three finals were decided in extra-time: 1934, 1966 and 1978.

7. Most appearances by a team: Brazil - all 18 editions.

8. Most wins: Brazil - 5.

9. Most winners-up: Germany - 4.

10. Most final appearances: Brazil and Germany - 7 each.

11. Most winners medals: Pele, Brazil - 3.

12. Most goals scored: Ronaldo, Brazil - 15 (1998 - 2006).

13. Most goals in a tournament: Just Fontaine - 13 (1958).

14. Most goals in match: Oleg Salenko - 5 (Russia vs Cameroon, 1994).

15. Most wins as a coach: Vittorio Pozzo - 2 (Italy 1934 and 1938).

16. Highest attended match: 199 854 (Uruguay vs Brazil, 16 July 1950, Maracana Stadium).

Sources: (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/396367-south-africa-world-cup-2010-10-simple-facts-about-the-world-cup; http://internationalsoccer.suite101.com/article.cfm/ten_quick_world_cup_facts).