Ten Surprising Facts from World Cup Finals

The early days of the World Cup finals were marked by unusual events and dramatic turns. In the inaugural 1930 final, a unique situation arose where two different balls were used. The first half featured an Argentinian ball, with Argentina leading 2-1. However, the second half switched to a Uruguayan ball, which seemed slightly larger and heavier, contributing to Uruguay's comeback and eventual 4-2 victory.

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Argentina, with its ball, finished the first half with an advantage (2-1). Uruguay, with its own – apparently a little larger and heavier – came back and took the title (4-2).

Adding to the tournament's peculiar history, Argentinian player Luis Monti holds the distinction of being the only individual to compete in two consecutive World Cup finals with different national teams. He played for Argentina in 1930 and then for Italy in 1934. His finals appearances were shadowed by controversy, as he reportedly faced threats from Uruguayans if he won in 1930 and pressure from Benito Mussolini to secure victory in 1934.

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Luis Monti is the only case of a player who has played two finals with different national teams. He did so with Argentina in 1930 and repeated, already as an Italian, in 1934. The curious thing was that in both he acted under threats.

The 1950 World Cup final, known as the Maracanazo, also provided a moment of profound shock. FIFA President Jules Rimet, anticipating a Brazilian victory, descended from the stands to prepare for the trophy presentation. However, he was met with scenes of devastation as Uruguay had staged a remarkable comeback, leaving Rimet stunned by the unexpected outcome and the widespread despair among Brazilian fans.

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Legend says that Rimet took time to understand what had happened because he found himself in a Dantean scene of Brazilians and fans crying, and that someone approached him to explain that Uruguay was the champion of the 1950 World Cup.