Before an undeserved draw vs. West Germany in the 2nd group stage made them stumble, the Squadra Azzurra had pretty well dominated the tournament, beating hosts and eventual winners Argentina 1-2 and delivering equally spirited performances against Hungary and France. Not unlike the team that would reach the EURO semifinals 10 years later, the Italian team at the World Cup 1978 didn`t just defend, but played a proactive attacking football based on quick passing and movement.