The triumphant Brazilian outfit, with newcomer Pelé. (FIFA)

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Hosts: Sweden
Champions: Brazil
Runners Up: Sweden

Summary
The 1958 FIFA World Cup, the sixth staging of the World Cup, was hosted by Sweden from 8 June to 29 June. Sweden was chosen as hosts by FIFA in June 1950. It was won by Brazil, who beat Sweden 5–2 in the final for their first title. The World Cup marked the debut on the world stage of a precocious unknown 17-year-old named Pelé.

This World Cup saw the entry and qualification of the Soviet Union for the first time, and the qualification of all the United Kingdom's Home Nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with Northern Ireland eliminating Italy for the first (and only) time in the competition's history.

The final was played in Solna, in the Råsunda Stadium, as 50,000 people watched in amazement as the Brazilians went a goal down after four minutes. The Brazilians were not dismayed, and Vavá equalised shortly afterwards and then put them a goal ahead before half time. In the second half Pelé outshone everyone, notching up two goals, including the first one where he lobbed the ball over Bengt Gustavsson then followed it with a precise volley shot. Zagallo added a goal in between, and Sweden managed a consolation goal. But the game really belonged to Pelé, and the Jules Rimet trophy belonged to Brazil - the World Cup winners.

Notable Facts
France’s Just Fontaine with 13 goals still holds the record for the most goals in a World Cup tournament.

In a Group 4 match between Brazil and England, the first ever goalless game in World Cup history occurred.

Golden Boot
France’s Just Fontaine with 13 goals


Frenchman and eventual Golden Boot winner Just Fontaine, whose record of 13 goals in a World Cup still stands, dribbles past Brazilian goalkeeper Gilmar during the semi-final in 1958. (AFP)