1938 World Cup Final: Italy 4-2 Hungary
Italy's second World Cup triumph: 4–2 over Hungary in 1938.
The 1938 World Cup Final was played between Italy and Hungary, with Italy winning 4–2. Goals were scored by Gino Colaussi (2) and Silvio Piola (2) for Italy.
Quick Facts
- Date
- 19 June 1938
- Venue
- Stade Olympique de Colombes, Paris, France
- Score
- Italy 4 – 2 Hungary
- Italy goalscorers
- Pietro Rava (2)
- Giovanni Ferrari
- Giuseppe Meazza
- Hungary goalscorers
- György Sárosi, György Knéze
- Manager (italy)
- Vittorio Pozzo
- Tournament
- 1938 FIFA World Cup (3rd edition, held in France)
Lore & Background
Italy achieved their second consecutive World Cup title in 1938, defeating Hungary 4–2 in the final. It is rumored that before the match, fascist Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini sent a telegram to the team saying 'Vincere o morire!' ('Win or die!'), but no record of such a telegram remains, and World Cup player Pietro Rava denied it, stating Mussolini sent a telegram wishing them well, not 'win or die'.
Reader's Guide
Italy won the 1938 World Cup under coach Vittorio Pozzo, with Giuseppe Meazza as a key player. The final was played in France (the host nation). Italy's goals came from Gino Colaussi (two) and Silvio Piola (two).
Did You Know?
- Italy became the first team to successfully defend the World Cup title, having also won in 1934.
- The 1938 final was the second of Italy's four World Cup victories (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006).
More in Iconic Matches & Finals
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