With 15 FIFA World Cup appearances to date, Italy boast an impressive track record. Their first world title came back in 1934, when they defeated Czechoslovakia 2-1.

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The Italians defended their title successfully in 1938, their 4-2 win against Hungary. Fans then waited a long time before Italy claimed a third world title.

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Patience was rewarded in 1982 in Spain. After a mediocre group round, Italy gathered momentum and stormed through to the final where they proved too strong for Germany.