World Championship --Jules Rimet Cup 1966 Final ... - FIFA.com

GERMANY WEST
In the opening game against Switzerland, Germany West showed the
strong features of play which took them to the Final . A defensive
system of 1-1-4, using Schulz as the sweep behind four defenders, gave
them opportunity for quick tackling at the ball knowing that a mistake
would be covered or "swept up" by Schulz . Often Germany West were
able to make a quick counter attack as a result of a timely tackle in
mid-field . Then, in attack, the team had players of speed and dribbling
ability who could run swiftly into forward space with precise timing of
the link pass . This attack at speed was excellent and showed the nature
of well-rehearsed basic tactical moves . Beckenbauer, as a half back,
added dangerous attacking potential to the team, but in some matches
he subdued this for a more defensive function .
In the Quarter-Final and Semi-Final matches against Uruguay and
USSR, it was asserted that some West German players overdramatised
«injury» from fouls . Discounting this, Germany West played with
fervour and strength, showing how to tackle for the ball effectively and
fairly, and to make sharp attacking moves with a variation of accurate
passing .
In the Final against England, some of their attacking flair was reduced
by concentrating on defence, Beckenbauer seldom showing his attacking
skill. In physical condition and tactical strength, Germany West matched
England and, in consequence, the game seesawed dramatically with
England, in extra time, finally taking the honours .
PORTUGAL
The team had a basic 1-4-2-4 formation, but often the attack consisted
of only three players whose individual attacking styles were complementary
to each other : Torres, the tall centre forward, with long stride
capable of solo runs in chase of the ball, and with an exceptionally high
jump for heading ; Simoes, ready to interchange position and capable of.
amazing dribbles and snap shooting, and finally Eusebio with his
fantastic skill in close ball dribble and power shooting. The defence,
while playing well, were often too square and open to a fast breakthrough,
yet they were quick in rectifying mistakes and played skilfully
with short passes to start up a new attack .
Several goals scored by Portugal in the Group matches were the result
of bad defensive lapses on the part of the opposing teams, but the three
advanced forwards were always worrying their opponents. In mid-field,
experienced players, like Coluna, were able to slow down the game when
necessary .
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