Sunday, May 3, 1998 Published at 17:37 GMT 18:37 UK

Meet the BBC Team

Who could forget Pavarotti's rendition of 'Nesse Dorma' [1'11'']

Italy proved a romantic setting for the 14th World Cup, making Cameroon striker Roger Milla and opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, who provided the music for the BBC's coverage, household names.

Germany, World Cup winners 1990

Argentina were a shadow of the skilful side that had lifted the trophy four years earlier. They made few friends but reached the final, where their luck ran out against a newly unified Germany in a re-run of Mexico 1986.

Who played?

Paul Gascoigne sheds a tear

The Republic of Ireland, led by England legend Jack Charlton, made their World Cup debut, in the same group as England.

And charismatic Cameroon provided huge entertainment with their unique brand of football.

What happened?

Cameroon sensationally beat champions Argentina in the first round despite having two players sent off. They went on to become the first African nation to make it to the quarter-finals.

Ireland and Bobby Robson's England fought out a draw but both made it through to the last eight.

Bobby Robson: "An awful way to lose" [46'']

Ireland fell to Italy but England came from behind to end Cameroon's run. It was the first time since 1966 England had reached the semi-finals. But again they were thwarted by the Germans. Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle missed in the penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw.

Argentinian penalties knock Italy of the tournament [1'00'']

Argentina stunned Italy in the other semi. Their equaliser in normal time was the first goal conceded by the Azurri in 617 minutes of football. It was another penalty shoot-out and the hosts lost.

A penalty decides the final [55'']

After a colourful tournament, the final was drab. Already depleted by suspensions, Argentina had Monzon and Dezotti sent off - the first players to be dismissed in a World Cup final. Germany won with a dubious penalty five minutes from the end.

Any lasting memories?

Roger Milla, Cameroon

Cameroon's "Indomitable Lions" were a sensation and Roger Milla's flag-dancing celebrations were the highlight of the tournament. But the lasting memory is Paul Gascoigne bursting into tears against Germany.

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