On A Day Like Today: VCF's first players at a World Cup

On June 25th, 1950, Valencia CF had their first representatives feature in a World Cup. In the third edition of the competition, held in Brazil, four players from the club travelled with Spain: Ignacio Eizaguirre, ‘Tonico’ Puchades, Silvestre Igoa and Vicente Asensi.

Spain entered the World Cup for the first time, and in their opening game they played the USA in Curitiba. They would win 3-1, with Igoa starting a fightback with his goal in the 81st minute, and Eizaguirre and Puchades also featured in the match.

Goalkeeper Eizaguirre, who would leave Valencia CF for Real Sociedad the following campaign, was beaten by a long shot by Gino Pariani in the 17th minute. Igoa created multiple chances, and after halftime headed in a cross by Gainza. Two minutes later, Basora benefitted from a one-two with Igoa to score, and the VCF player set up Zarra to convert the third and final goal.

Spain topped Group 2 after beating Chile 2-0 and England 1-0. 'La Roja' placed fourth thanks to a draw against eventual winners Uruguay and losses against Brazil and Sweden.