1968: Championship class

The European Nations’ Cup became the European Football Championship for 1968, and 31 teams entered.

Coin toss decides finalist
The semi-finals saw hosts Italy defeat the Soviet Union on the toss of a coin while Yugoslavia defeated England. In the final, Yugoslavia, 1-0 up, were still being made to retreat at a free-kick when Italy took the kick and scored. The goal was allowed to stand. After no further scoring, the game went to a replay. The Italians made five changes for the match, the Yugoslavs none: tiredness eventually told and the Italians won 2-0.