Flashback to the 1968 European Cup: Coin Toss and Replay Match Mark Italy's Success

Liputan6.com, Jakarta – The popularity of the European Cup continues to grow. The number of participants for the third edition in 1968 increased to 31 countries.

As interest grew, competition operators changed the qualifying format. From previously presenting a knockout system, participants were divided into eight groups. The champions then compete to present four teams that qualify for the main tournament.

With world champion status, England finally took part after missing the previous two events. Likewise West Germany.

Among them, only England was able to talk a lot. After beating neighbors Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in Group H, the Three Lions beat defending champions Spain 3-1 on aggregate to win tickets to the finals. They were accompanied by Italy, 1960 champions the Soviet Union, and Yugoslavia.

The 1968 European Cup presents many stories. First, coins were used to determine the semifinal winner between Italy and the Soviet Union. This method was used because penalty shootouts had not yet been used, with both teams playing goalless despite extra time.

Italy again had to face a unique situation in the final. Coins are considered too cruel to determine winners. So, if the score is equal again, a replay will be held.

Gli Azzurri and Yugoslavia were locked at 1-1 in the match which took place on June 8. So the two of them dueled again two days later with Italy winning 2-0. This title completed the success of the Italian national team, which at that time had already won the World Cup twice.