While many football fans bemoan lack of geographic diversity among the four semifinalists and from now on call the tournament ‘Euromundial’, it is not the first time in history of the biggest football event that the remaining four participants represent one continent (Europe, obviously). What are those tournaments?

2006, Germany

Cup holders Brazil were expected to fight for another trophy and cruised through the tournament before they met future finalists France in the quarterfinals. Argentina were the other non-European team competing in the quarterfinals who lost a penalty shoot-out to the hosts. As a result, Germany, Italy, Portugal and France made it to all-European semifinals.

1982, Spain

The 1982 World Cup in Spain was the first tournament with 24 participating countries, while many exotic nations like Kuwait, New Zealand, Honduras, El Salvador, Algeria or Cameroon got a chance to make the part. However, neither of them managed to impress, while holders Argentina and their fellow South American super team Brazil were both beaten in the second group stage by future champions Italy. Poland, West Germany and France were the other European semifinalists.

1966, England

Brazil, led by Pele, came to England after winning two consecutive titles. However, they didn’t even make it past the group stage, while other non-European participants, including the likes of Argentina, Uruguay and North Korea all lost in the round of 8. As a result, four European teams including England, Portugal, Soviet Union and West Germany reached the semifinals.

As you can see, it is not that uncommon for all non-European teams to leave the tournament before semifinals, turning it into 'Euromundial'. Curiously, every time it happens, the World Cup is hosted by a European country, while Italy are the most typical beneficiaries.