Rare 1978 Interview: Johan Cruyff Reveals Why He Skipped the World Cup | Predicts Argentina's Win

Dive into this incredibly rare footage from May 1978, where legendary commentator Brian Moore sits down with football icon Johan Cruyff just weeks before the World Cup in Argentina.

Cruyff explains his shocking decision to retire from international football and miss the tournament, citing the immense mental strain and loss of excitement after the 1974 final. (Years later, he revealed the true reason: a terrifying 1977 kidnapping attempt on him and his family in Barcelona, where armed men tied them up at gunpoint.)

The Dutch master then brilliantly predicts the top teams: Argentina, Brazil, Germany, and the Netherlands — accurately forecasting the finalists (Argentina defeated Netherlands 3-1 in extra time) and Brazil's third place.

He also praises Brazil's technical flair combined with physical resilience and names exciting players to watch.

This interview captures Cruyff at his insightful best, amid the controversial 1978 World Cup hosted under Argentina's brutal military junta, shadowed by allegations of match-fixing (including the suspicious 6-0 win over Peru) and human rights abuses.

A must-watch for football history fans! 🏆⚽

#JohanCruyff #WorldCup1978 #footballhistory

Дата на публикация: 13 януари, 2026
Категория: Спорт
Ключови думи: The World Cup win Why He interview Rare 1978 Reveals Johan Predicts CRUYFF Argentina's Skipped