1938:
Final
A
selection error
Unfortunately for Brazil, their manager makes a major
selection error. He does not play either Leônidas or the
other Brazil star, Tim, in the semi-final against Italy.
Before the game he confidently says, ‘we are keeping them
for the final.’ But the Final never comes! Brazil lose 2-1.
Defending champion Italy face
Hungary in the Final. Hungary have played very well in the
early games in the tournament. They are the favourites to
win.
Italy, however, save their best football for the final.
They take a 3-1 half-time lead, and go on to win 4-2.
War
A year after the 1938 World Cup
the Second World War begins. The 1942 World Cup is
cancelled.
It will be 12 years before the tournament.
