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The Argentinian-born Italian midfielder Humberto Maschio had already (1) been shoved in the chest and (2) punched in the face, (3) and had punched someone in the face, and (4) raked his studs down a Chilean shin. Italy were down to nine men by this point, although, as the referee Ken Aston hadn't considered Maschio one of the worst offenders, he was free to continue playing. With seconds of the half remaining, he was brought down by Chile's captain, Sergio Navarro. It was a free-kick. Eladio Rojas, jogging slowly back to defend, did what players do and flicked the static ball back upfield a couple of yards into empty space, in an attempt to lessen Italy's advantage. Play hadn't restarted but the referee's whistle in Maschio's head blew loud and clear. He raced back after the ball, but instead of calmly retrieving and replacing it, slid across the turf and hoicked it violently out of play for a "throw". His fuses blown, there he was, doing battle with invisible opponents on the biggest stage of all.