Sweden returned to the World Cup in 1938, looking to improve on their 1934 knockout-round exit. Under József Nagy, they were ready to write the next chapter.
Sweden exceeded many expectations with a deep run that took them to the semi-finals of the tournament. Their attack was prolific, producing 11 goals across 3 matches at a rate that few could match.
They put on a commanding display against Cuba in the Quarter-finals, and were overpowered by Hungary in the Semi-finals. Defeat in the the semis and the third-place match left Sweden in fourth, but the journey to the last four had already exceeded expectations.
1won2lost
11scored9conceded
Averaged 3.7 goals per match conceded 9 goals in 3 matches.
Harry Andersson led Sweden's attack with 3 goals at the 1938 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Nyberg and Wetterström, all with 3. A specialist in decisive moments, with goals in the closing stages that changed the course of matches.
vs Cuba
Quarter-finals
Hat-trick by Andersson 4 scored before half-time.
The tactical mind behind Sweden's 1938 campaign. A Hungary at the helm leading Sweden at his first World Cup.
Under Nagy's guidance, Sweden employed an aggressive and dynamic playing style that often left opponents struggling to cope with their swift counterattacks. However, this approach sometimes led to defensive vulnerabilities, as evident in its semi-final loss to Hungary.
