The Wales national side had reached the quarter-finals of the 1976 European Championships but suffered a controversial defeat to Yugoslavia and failed to reach the finals. The team's competitiveness had raised optimism amongst supporters ahead of qualifying for the 1978 FIFA World Cup, but this was eroded quickly as they suffered a 1–0 defeat against Scotland in their first qualifying game. However, a surprise 3–0 victory over Czechoslovakia, reigning European champions and unbeaten in their previous 22 fixtures, kept their hopes alive. Qualifying would not be completed until the end of 1977 as the 1976–77 British Home Championship was played in between. The competition began with a goalless draw with Scotland before a game against England became synonymous with Welsh nationalism.