After 12 years in the wilderness, Yugoslavia returned to the World Cup their first appearance since 1962. Miljan Miljanić was the man tasked with guiding them back.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 2 | 5 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 6 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | -2 | 3 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 6 | -4 | 0 |
Reaching the second group stage was an achievement for Yugoslavia, who found the competition at that level fierce and unforgiving. With 12 goals in 6 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
Yugoslavia endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a 0-0 draw with Brazil, a commanding 9-0 victory over DR Congo, a 1-1 draw with Scotland, a 0-2 defeat against West Germany, a narrow 1-2 loss to Poland, and a narrow 1-2 loss to Sweden. Despite competing with determination in the second the group phase, Yugoslavia's journey ended before the final.
1won2drawn3lost
12scored7conceded
Failed to score in 2 of 6 matches just 1 win in 6 matches.
Dušan Bajević led Yugoslavia's attack with 3 goals at the 1974 World Cup.
vs DR Congo
group stage
Hat-trick by Bajević 6 scored before half-time.
The tactical mind behind Yugoslavia's 1974 campaign. Leading Yugoslavia at his first World Cup just 1 win in 6 under Miljanić.
Under Miljan Miljanić, Yugoslavia employed an aggressive 4-3-3 formation that capitalized on their attacking prowess. Dušan Bajević's three goals led the charge as Stanislav Karasi and Ivica Šurjak chipped in with two apiece.
