The 1962 FIFA World Cup, the seventh staging of the World Cup, was held in Chile from 30 May to 17 June.  Chile were chosen as host at the 30th FIFA Congress in Lisbon on 9-10 June 1956. Chile received 32 votes to Argentina's eleven, after the German Federal Republic had withdrawn their bid.

In May 1960, as the preparations were well under way, Chile suffered a large earthquake, which caused enormous damage.  In face of this, Carlos Dittborn, the president of the Organization Committee, said "Because we don't have anything, we will do everything in our power to rebuild," which became the unofficial slogan of the tournament. Stadia and other infrastructure were rebuilt at record speed and the tournament occurred on schedule with no major organizational flaw. Sadly, Dittborn would not live to see the success of his tireless efforts, as he died one month before the start of the tournament. The Stadium at Arica was named in his honour.

The Draw

The Build-Up

17 May: The England squad left London for Lima, ahead of the warm-up match against Peru. Peter Swan had been suffering from tonsillitis, but he was able to join the first flight, which contained 16 players, the rest following on a second plane.

"Mr. W. Winterbottom, the team manager, said this morning that the team to play Peru would probably be that for the opening World Cup match in Chile." [it was] - The Times.

FORWARDS LACK PENETRATION
"The Hungarians were probably a fraction of a goal better in tactics, skill, and ball play.
"England... fought with ample spirit and determination to equalize. But lack of general skill throughout the team means that players are working always at maximum capacity.
"Douglas and Hitchens squandered numerous opportunities.
"...England dominate play for 70 minutes, yet put in few dangerous shots.
"One simple slip and a defensive mistake may have cost England the match." - The Times, 1 June 1962