England were placed in a strong group that included the Olympic Champions, Czechoslovakia and France. Kuwait represented Asia and proved awkward opponents.
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England
England's Captain Marvel put his team ahead within seconds of the kick-off but mid way through the first half, Soler equalised for France. In the second half, Bryan Robson scored again and Paul Mariner made the game safe seven minutes from the end. Officials may have through the red and blue flashes on England's white first choice kit may have caused confusion with France's blue tops so both teams changed. After the match the English players' complained that their polyester shirts were uncomfortable in the Spanish heat and Admiral hastily ran up sets of Aertex tops instead with polyester yokes sewn in.
Czechoslovakia
Kuwait
Czechoslovakia lead at half-time thanks to a penalty scored by Penanka. Al-Dakhil scored for Kuwait in the second half with a devastating shot from 25 yards.
England
Czechoslovakia
Both of England's goals came in the second half, the first scored by Francis at the far post from a corner. Four minutes later Jozef Barmoš tried to intercept a diagonal cross at full stretch but only succeeded in diverting the ball past his goalkeeper.
France
Kuwait
France recorded a convincing win.
France
Czechoslovakia
Provided that England did not lose heavily to Kuwait the following day, a draw was sufficient for France to qualify for the second round.
(Julio López)
England
Kuwait
England made heavy weather of beating Kuwait and finish top of the group.