By Bulent Aslan

ISTANBUL

The first World Cup tournament was held in 1930 in Uruguay.

The host nation ended up claiming the title.

Only 13 countries participated in the 1930 World Cup as certain European countries thought that a 25-30 day-long navigation would tire players.

But France, Belgium, Yugoslavia and Romania went to Uruguay to join Uruguay, Argentina, the U.S., Chile, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Paraguay and Bolivia to constitute four groups.

The first World Cup match on July 13, 1930, was played between France and Mexico in Montevideo.

France beat Mexico 4-1 and French player Lucien Laurent scored the first ever World Cup goal.

Argentina, Uruguay, the U.S. and Yugoslavia advanced to the semifinals.

Uruguay eliminated Yugoslavia by a score 6-1, a feat reapeated by Argentina in their match against the U.S..

In the final on July 30, Uruguay toppled Argentina 4-2 to claimed the first World Cup title.

The top scorer was Argentina's Guillermo Stabile, with eight goals.

In total, 70 goals were scored in 18 matches and the top scoring team was Argentina with 18 goals. Champions Uruguay scored 15 goals.