TOURNAMENT LEGACY

Brazil claimed their fourth World Cup title, defeating Italy 3-2 on penalties in the final after a 0-0 draw, marking the first World Cup final to be decided by penalties. This was Brazil's first title since 1970. The tournament saw the introduction of three points for a win (previously two) to encourage attacking play, though the final remained goalless. Key moments included Bulgaria's surprise run to the semi-finals (defeating Germany in the quarter-finals), Roberto Baggio's penalty miss in the final that cost Italy the title, and the tragic death of Colombian defender Andrés Escobar, who was murdered after scoring an own goal against the United States. The format stayed with 24 teams, with a group stage followed by a knockout round. Hristo Stoichkov and Oleg Salenko shared the Golden Boot with 6 goals each, while Romário won the Golden Ball as the best player. The mascot was 'Striker, the World Cup Pup', a dog symbolizing loyalty and enthusiasm.