George Best never played in a World Cup, and when Northern Ireland qualified in 1982, he was 36 years old. However, the team of 22 hand-picked by Billy Bingham did not contain the country's best player. Northern Ireland won their group by defeating the hosts, going undefeated throughout qualification and allowing only one goal (to Honduras). In the first round they defeated Australia, who had beaten them in 1978, and then drew 1-1 with Sweden after leading through George Best. The loss eliminated Northern Ireland from contention. Best started his career at Manchester United where he became one of the world's most talented players in the 1960s. In five seasons he scored 45 goals and provided 46 assists. He also won two European Championships with the Red Devils. In 1974 he was named Footballer of the Year after scoring 31 goals for his country. However, alcoholism ended his career early at the age of 26. Best died in an auto accident in August 1967, just months after winning his second European Championship with Northern Ireland. He is still considered one of the greatest players in international football history. The last game he participated in was against Sweden on June 8, 1982. He was diagnosed with leukemia three weeks later. After retirement, Best served as assistant manager to former teammate Tommy Docherty at Scottish club Dundee. When Docherty was appointed manager of Northern Ireland in 1985, he asked Best to join him as his assistant.