The First World Cup

In 1930 FIFA introduced a new tournament, open to all member countries. This ‘football olympics’ was named after FIFA President, Jules Rimet. It would take place every four years.

The tournament was open invitation with no qualifying games. The cost and distance discouraged many countries from taking part. In the end, thirteen countries entered. Four nations made the long sea voyage from Europe.

Before Watching/ Listeningprediction activity

Which two of these statements do you think are false? 

  1. The European teams travelled to the tournament by train
  2. France scored the first goal of the tournament
  3. The King of Romania was his country’s manager
  4. A referee had to call the players back from the dressing rooms.
  5. Three footballs were used in the first World Cup Final.
Players training on the deck of the ‘world cup ship’ the Conte Verde

English language level: A2/B1

How the World Cup Began – Presentation

Reading Download & complete this worksheet

Worksheet Answers

Vocabulary Worksheet – First World Final – Eyewitness

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One response to “The First World Cup”

  1. […] countries participated in the first World Cup in 1930. Seven were from South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru & Uruguay. […]