The 1954 FIFA World Cup quarter-final match was nicknamed “The Battle of Berne.” It was contested between Hungary and Brazil on 27 June 1954 at the Wankdorf Stadium in Berne, Switzerland.
Both teams were known for their attacking play and prior to the game, Brazil had scored six goals in their two group stage matches while Hungary had scored 17.
Hungary led 2-1 at half-time and by second half, the game turned into a brawl with exchange of blows and increasing violent fouls. A total of 42 free kicks and 2 penalties were awarded, as well as 4 cautions and 3 dismissals.
Hungary ended up winning 4-2 but the fight between both teams continued in the dressing room and even outside the stadium.
In the course of the fight, Hungarian manager Gustav Sebes was attacked with an object and had to receive four stitches for a facial wound.
The game’s referee Arthur Ellis said;
“I thought it was going to be the greatest game I’d ever see. I was on top of the world. Whether politics and religion had something to do with it I don’t know, but they behaved like animals. It was a disgrace… My only thought was that I was determined to finish it.”
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