The FIFA World Cup final has produced some of the greatest moments in soccer history, but only one player holds the distinction of being the oldest to score on the sport’s biggest stage.
Nils Liedholm Holds the Record
Sweden legend Nils Liedholm is the oldest player ever to score in a FIFA World Cup final. He achieved the feat during the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final against Brazil on June 29, 1958, at the age of 35 years and 264 days.
Liedholm gave the host nation a dream start by scoring in just the fourth minute, sending Sweden into an early lead in front of its home crowd.
Brazil’s Historic Comeback
Despite Sweden’s fast start, Brazil quickly took control of the match and completed a memorable comeback, defeating Sweden 5-2 to capture the nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup title.
The final is remembered not only for Liedholm’s record-setting goal but also for the emergence of a young Brazilian star.
Pelé’s Breakthrough Performance
Brazil’s victory introduced the world to 17-year-old Pelé, who scored twice in the final. His performance helped launch one of the greatest careers in soccer history and earned him another remarkable distinction—becoming the youngest player ever to score in a FIFA World Cup final.
The 1958 final remains one of the most iconic championship matches in tournament history, featuring both the oldest and youngest World Cup final goalscorers.
Oldest Players to Score in a FIFA World Cup Final
| Rank | Player | Country | World Cup | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nils Liedholm | Sweden | 1958 | 35 years, 264 days |
| 2 | Zinedine Zidane | France | 2006 | 34 years, 16 days |
Why Liedholm’s Record Still Stands
More than six decades after the 1958 FIFA World Cup, no player older than Nils Liedholm has found the back of the net in a World Cup final.
Many experienced stars have reached the championship match over the years, but none have surpassed Liedholm’s record of scoring at 35 years and 264 days old, making it one of the tournament’s longest-standing individual milestones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup final?
Nils Liedholm of Sweden is the oldest player to score in a FIFA World Cup final. He was 35 years and 264 days old when he scored against Brazil in the 1958 final.
How old was Nils Liedholm when he scored in the World Cup final?
Liedholm was 35 years, 264 days old when he scored in the fourth minute of the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final.
Who won the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final?
Brazil defeated Sweden 5-2 to win its first FIFA World Cup championship.
Who is the youngest player to score in a FIFA World Cup final?
Pelé holds the record as the youngest player to score in a FIFA World Cup final after netting twice for Brazil as a 17-year-old in the 1958 final.
Final Thoughts
Nils Liedholm’s goal in the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final remains one of soccer’s most enduring records. At 35 years and 264 days old, the Swedish captain became the oldest player ever to score in a World Cup final, a milestone that has stood the test of time despite decades of legendary players competing on football’s biggest stage.