1958 World Cup Final vs Sweden

Lore & Background

The 1958 final holds the record for most goals scored in a World Cup Final, and shares the record for the greatest winning margin (with the 1970 and 1998 tournaments). The records for both the youngest and oldest goalscorer in a World Cup final were set in this match by Pelé (17 years and 249 days) and Nils Liedholm (35 years, 263 days) respectively. The final also marked several firsts: It was the first final to be disputed between a European team and a team from the Americas. Sweden became the first, and so far, only host to lose a World Cup Final. Their loss also meant that for the only time a World Cup staged in Europe was not won by a European nation.

Reader's Guide

Sweden took the lead after only 4 minutes after an excellent finish by captain Nils Liedholm. The lead did not last long, as Vavá equalised just 5 minutes later. On 32 minutes, Vavá scored a similar goal to his first to give Brazil a lead 2–1 at the break. 10 minutes into the second half, Brazil went further in front thanks to a brilliant goal scored by Pelé. He took control of the ball inside the penalty area, chipped the ball over the defender then smashed it past a helpless Kalle Svensson. Halfway through the second half Brazil went 4–1 up with a goal scored by Mário Zagallo. Simonsson pulled one back for Sweden with 10 minutes remaining but it was far too late. Pelé sealed the 5–2 victory for Brazil with a headed goal in stoppage time.

Did You Know?

• The last survivor on Brazil's side was Mário Zagallo, who died on 5 January 2024 at the age of 92.
• Nearly a month later, the last survivor of the game, Sweden's Kurt Hamrin, died on 4 February 2024 at the age of 89.