1934 - The Second FIFA World Cup Held in Italy
Introduction
The 1934 FIFA World Cup, held in Italy, marked a significant milestone in the history of international football as the second-ever tournament of its kind. Unlike the inaugural event in 1930, this World Cup saw the introduction of a qualification process, ensuring that only the top national teams could compete in the finals. Featuring 16 teams hailing from across four continents, the tournament showcased thrilling matches and a growing global interest in the sport. Italy, the host nation, emerged as the tournament's champion, defeating Czechoslovakia in a dramatic final in Rome. The 1934 World Cup also highlighted advancements in organization and infrastructure, setting the stage for future editions of the event. Despite being overshadowed by the political climate of the time, this tournament remains an important chapter in football history, remembered for its competitive spirit and passionate crowds.
| ASIA | AFRICA | NORTH, CENTRAL AMERICA & CARIBBEAN | SOUTH AMERICA | EUROPE |
| None | Egypt (debut) | United States | Argentina | Austria (debut) |
| Brazil | Belgium | |||
| Czechoslovakia (debut | ||||
| France | ||||
| Germany (debut) | ||||
| Hungary (debut) | ||||
| Italy (hosts, debut) | ||||
| Netherlands (debut) | ||||
| Romania | ||||
| Spain (debut) | ||||
| Sweeden (debut) | ||||
| Switzerland (debut) |
1934 Top Goal Scorer: Oldřich Nejedlý
Oldřich Nejedlý from Czechoslovakia emerged as the tournament's top goal scorer. Nejedlý's skill, precision, and determination on the pitch led him to score 5 goals, securing his place in football history. His incredible performance played a pivotal role in helping Czechoslovakia reach the final, where they narrowly lost to Italy. Nejedlý's legacy as the top goal scorer of the 1934 World Cup continues to be celebrated by football fans around the world. In addition to his goal-scoring prowess, Nejedlý showcased exceptional leadership and teamwork, qualities that inspired his teammates throughout the tournament. His ability to read the game, create opportunities, and maintain composure under pressure made him a true asset to his team. Even decades later, his influence on the sport serves as a testament to the impact a single player can have on a team, motivating future generations of athletes to strive for greatness on the world stage.
VENUES
NAME: STADIO SAN SIRO
LOCATION: Milan
CAPACITY: 55,000
NAME: STADIO LITTORIALE
LOCATION: Bologna
CAPACITY: 50,100
NAME: STADIO NAZIONALE PNF
LOCATION: Rome
CAPACITY: 47,300
NAME: STADIO GIOVANNI BERTA
LOCATION: Florence
CAPACITY: 47,290
NAME: STADIO GIORGIO ASCARELLI
LOCATION: Naples
CAPACITY: 40,000
NAME: STADIO LUIGI FERRARIS
LOCATION: Turin
CAPACITY: 28,140
NAME: STADIO BENITO MUSSOLINI
LOCATION: Turin
CAPACITY: 28,140
NAME: STADIO LITTORIO
LOCATION: Trieste
CAPACITY: 8,000
tournament details/statistics
DATES: May 27 - June 10
TEAMS: 16 countries (from 4 confederations)
VENUES: 8 stadiums (in 8 host cities)
MATCHES PLAYED: 17 games
GOALS SCORED: 70 goals (4.12 per match)
ATTENDANCE: 363,000 (21,353 per match)
FINAL POSITIONS
RUNNERS-UP: Czechoslovakia
CHAMPIONS: Italy
THIRD PLACE: Germany