England vs Soviet Union: World Cup head-to-head record
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England and the Soviet Union met twice in World Cup history, both encounters occurring at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, with the Soviet Union holding the advantage with one victory and one draw from their two meetings.
The Soviets eliminated England from the tournament, winning their crucial group stage playoff 1-0 after both teams finished level in Group 4. Their first meeting had ended in a 2-2 draw during the initial group stage matchday.
Complete Head-to-Head Record
The two nations' World Cup rivalry was brief but significant, confined entirely to the 1958 tournament in Sweden. After drawing 2-2 in their group stage opener, both teams finished tied in Group 4, necessitating a playoff match to determine who would advance to the quarter-finals. The Soviet Union's 1-0 victory in that playoff eliminated England and sent the Soviets through to the knockout rounds.
| Date | Stage | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Group 4 Matchday 1 | Soviet Union 2-2 England |
| 1958 | Group 4 Playoff | Soviet Union 1-0 England |
This head-to-head record remains frozen in time, as the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, with Russia becoming its successor nation in FIFA competitions. For tracking current World Cup results and building tournament brackets, fans can visit Bola 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How many times did England play Soviet Union in the World Cup?
England and the Soviet Union met twice in World Cup competition, both matches occurring during the 1958 World Cup in Sweden.
Who won the England vs Soviet Union World Cup head-to-head?
The Soviet Union leads the head-to-head record 1-0-1, having won their crucial playoff match 1-0 after a 2-2 draw in the group stage.
When did England last play Soviet Union in the World Cup?
Their final meeting was the 1958 World Cup Group 4 playoff, which the Soviet Union won 1-0 to eliminate England from the tournament.