This Day in History: 2022-11-16

Nr. 345

THE FOUR HOME NATIONS QUALIFY FOR THE WORLD CUP (1958)

The 1958 World Cup finals were the first, and so far only, time the four home nations – England, Scotland, Wales and Northem Ireland – have all qualified for the tournament. The Welsh enjoyed the most glory, reaching the quarter-finals before losing 1-0 to a goal scored by Pelé for the eventual winners Brazil. Northern Ireland also made it to the last eight before succumbing to the rampant Just Fontaine, who scored twice, as France triumphed 4-0. Scotland finished bottom of their group without a win, while England drew all three of their group games before losing 1-0 to the Soviet Union in a play-off.

Wales keeper Kelsey in called into action against Sweden during the World Cup in 1958 in which all four home nations participated.