As usual, the competition would start in the Americas, with the return of Mexico, who had been absent for three years from the competition. However, their return wouldn't last long as they faced Brazil in Manaus, and got beaten to the ground. With no chance of qualifying, Mexico left it all on the pitch in Mexico City, to no avail as the Brazilians still snagged the victory. Argentina on the other hand entered a difficult phase, as their brilliant elimination of Brazil last year made way for a much more scared team. And it showed against Uruguay, as Argentina were unable to find the win at home, and quickly fell to Uruguay in the return game.
The Soviets and Spanish would have the opportunity to go at each other once more, and in Moscow, the Soviets took revenge for both 1964 finals by beating Spain 3-1. However, last year's hero Martinez would once more step up, putting two past Yashin in Barcelona and qualifying Spain for the Quarter-Finals. There they would meet Hungary, who easily beat Romania at home, before holding their 3-0 lead in Bucharest afterwards.
For England, the first round was a piece of cake, with two large wins over North Korea to go on to the next round. Scotland were eager to measure themselves once more against their rivals England, and dove straight in against West Germany, getting an upset win over the Germans in West Berlin thanks to two goals by star player Denis Law. All the Scots had to do from then on was defend in Edinburgh, and that they did, holding to their 1-1 draw.
For Italy, the disappointements would continue. After failing to do well last year, they would end up being crushed by Czechoslovakia here, despite a good draw in Milan. But the focus was switched towards Africa, as with the first final in an African country, FIFA had insisted to get a home/away game between two african nations: final hosts Tunisia, and widely regarded best African team Egypt. Tunisia were not favorites at all, but they still managed to sting Egypt, catching them unaware, and in front of a jubilant crowd, scored four against the Egyptians. Egypt unfortunately wouldn't be able to recover from that and despite winning in Cairo, still let Tunisia advance to the Quarter-Finals.
Argentine players contest a referee decision to give Uruguay a free kick during the home leg of Argentina - Uruguay (1-1)
Still from Scotland v West Germany (1-1)