Yugoslavia were back. Missing from the previous edition, they had last graced the World Cup in 1974. Under Miljan Miljanić, they were ready to write the next chapter.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 5 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | -1 | 2 |
Yugoslavia found moments of promise but ultimately fell short of the consistency needed to progress beyond the group stage. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
Yugoslavia experienced an inconsistent group stage, and the mixed results were not enough to go through. Their campaign featured a 0-0 draw with Northern Ireland, a narrow 1-2 loss to Spain, and a hard-fought 1-0 win against Honduras. Despite moments of quality, it was not enough to advance, and Yugoslavia's campaign ended at the first round.
1won1drawn1lost
2scored2conceded
Eliminated in the group stage.
Vladimir Petrović led Yugoslavia's attack with 1 goal at the 1982 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Gudelj, both with 1.
Conceded in only 1 of 3 matches
The tactical mind behind Yugoslavia's 1982 campaign. At the helm since the 1974 World Cup best finish: second group stage.
Miljanić's approach focused on a strong defensive foundation to nullify opponents' attacks. This strategy allowed Yugoslavia to pick off counter-attacks and capitalize on set pieces, but ultimately fell short against the more established Spanish team.
