Many people felt they were destined to lift the trophy after topping their group comfortably, ahead of the Soviet Union, Scotland and New Zealand, plus rattling in 10 goals in the three games.
Their football was sensational and Tele Santana's side contained big names such as Junior, Toninho Cerezo, Socrates, Falcao, Zico and Eder.
The latter was a wide man with a rocket shot, who scored in both of the Selecao's opening games – against the Soviet Union and Scotland.
Unfortunately, the three-team group format in the next phase of the competition led to the South Americans' exit, despite them beating fierce rivals Argentina.