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French police unsuccessfully begged the army to step in and put a stop to several anti-fascist protests, and things only got worse when Germany and defending champions Italy rocked up in Paris.

“It’s their loss,” said a miffed Benito Mussolini upon hearing that holders Uruguay were going to boycott the World Cup in Italy. It was revenge for the fact that only four European sides had gone to the inaugural event in Montevideo.

Amateur player Lucien Laurent threatened to pull out of the France squad after learning he wouldn’t be paid by his employer, Peugeot, during the tournament. The forward scored the first ever World Cup goal, but still never got paid. Incroyable!

Striker Rajko Mitic cut his head on an exposed iron girder before Yugoslavia’s clash with Brazil at the brand new Maracana. The stadium had not been finished in time for the World Cup due to pay disputes with builders. Ouch.

Buenos Aires’ Mar del Plata pitch was wrecked when seawater was accidentally pumped into the sprinklers. The turf was hastily relaid, at great expense, ahead of the Italy vs France group game.