1958 World Cup Sweden

The 1958 World Cup marked the first victory for Brazil, who beat hosts Sweden in the final for.  It was also the first world cup for the then 17 year old Pelé who many consider the greatest footballer of all time.

The Soviet Union entered for the first time as did all the British nations (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). 

Sixteen teams still played in four groups of four, but this time each team played each of the other teams in its group at least once, without extra time in event of a draw.  If 2nd and 3rd placed teams finished on the same points, then there would be a playoff with the winner going through regardless of goal difference.

Pelé did not play until the last of Brazil's group games - against the Soviet Union and he failed to score sheet.  France topped Group B as Just Fontaine scored six goals.

Fontaine continued his scoring in the quarterfinals with two goals against Northern Ireland.  In Brazil's quarterfinal Pelé scored the only goal against Wales.

In the semi-finals Fontaine of France scored again but France lost although he managed another four goals in the 3rd place play off taking his total to 13, a record that still stands.  A Pelé hat-trick took Brazil through to the final.

The Final, played in the Råsunda Stadium Solna saw Brazil come from an early setback of conceding a goal to win with Pelé outstanding with 2 goals.

Top Scorer

13 goals - Just Fontaine (France)
 

-

-

Copyright 2005-2006 World Cup Football