World Cup 2014 countdown: Italy in black in 1938

Counting down the 100 greatest moments in the history of the World Cup

(GETTY IMAGES)

The World Cup in Brazil is coming into view and everyone is hoping this summer's carnival can take its place among some of the great tournaments of the past.

That won't be easy though, as this series will testify. In the run-up to the tournament, we're counting down the 100 greatest World Cup moments.

Check out our latest instalment below, and for any you missed, see the gallery at the end of the article.

Italy in black in 1938

On their way to a second successive World Cup win in 1938, the Italians caused a moment of great controversy.

It was the last tournament before World War II and the Italians lined up against France in the quarter-finals. Those attending the game were ready to jeer Italy in protest at the country's fascist leanings, and the Italians did little to calm the situation.

On Mussolini's orders, the team took to the field in black shirts (they were supposed to be wearing white), a symbol of the feared and hated Italian fascist paramilitary.

And on top of that, they also performed the fascist salute before kick-off.

They went on to win the match 3-1 and after winning the tournament, held on to the trophy for 12 years before the competition was resumed.