In 1938, Les Bleus became the first FIFA World Cup hosts to end the tournament empty-handed, having flattered to deceive.

From their FIFA World Cup debut to a series of shock wins over global heavyweights, here are Asia’s finest moments on the biggest stage.

After taking power in Italy in the 1920s, fascist leader Benito Mussolini embraced sports as a political tool. That was evident at both the 1934 and 1938 World Cups - both won by Italy. At the latter ...