1978 World Cup — Match schedule.
Updated June 29, 2026 · DynastyDaily Editorial · ● Live Last updated: 2026-06-30T05:19:34Z
Direct answer
The 1978 FIFA World Cup ran 1–25 June 1978 with 38 matches at 6 venues. The opening match was West Germany 0-0 Poland, and the final was Argentina 3-1 Netherlands (a.e.t.).
1978 match schedule — summary
| Dates | 1–25 June 1978 |
| Total matches | 38 |
| Teams | 16 |
| Venues | 6 |
| Opening match | West Germany 0-0 Poland |
| Final | Argentina 3-1 Netherlands (a.e.t.) |
| Format | Two group stages → final |
The story
Argentina won their first title at home amid the political shadow of the military junta. Mario Kempes scored twice in the final against a Cruyff-less Netherlands, who lost a second consecutive final. The tournament remains controversial over Argentina's 6–0 win over Peru that eliminated Brazil.
Related
See the full 1978 edition profile, the 1978 final classification, and our finals history.
Tables and ranking points refresh as matches finish. Standings · Match schedule · World Cup 2026
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