Copa América 1989
Brazil ends 19-year title drought with Copa América victory over Uruguay at Maracanã.
The 1989 Copa América football tournament was hosted by Brazil, from 1 to 16 July. All ten CONMEBOL member nations participated. Brazil won their fourth Copa América, and first since 1949, by beating Uruguay 1–0 in the final match at the Estádio do Maracanã.
Quick Facts
- Host nation
- Brazil
- Final opponent
- Argentina
- Deciding match format
- Regular time (1-0 win, goal by Romário)
- Key tournament figure
- Romário
- Tournament outcome
- Champions (15th title)
- Defending champions
- Uruguay
Lore & Background
Brazil's victory ended a 19-year streak without official titles, the last being the 1970 World Cup. The final match between Brazil and Uruguay on Maracanã Stadium also marks exactly 39 years, on another 16 July since the FIFA World Cup 1950 Final. The top scorer was Brazilian Bebeto, who scored six times, including three in the final group stage.
Reader's Guide
The tournament was set up in two groups of five teams each. Each team played one match against each of the other teams within the same group. The top two teams in each group advanced to the final stage. Two points were awarded for a win, one point for a draw, and no points for a loss. Tie-breakers: greater goal difference in all group games; greater number of goals scored in all group games; winner of the head-to-head match between the teams in question; drawing of lots.
Did You Know?
- Brazil won the 1989 Copa América after a 40-year hiatus since their last Copa América title in 1949.
- There were 55 goals scored in 26 matches, for an average of 2.12 goals per match.
More in Honours & Records
Elsewhere in Brazil National Team
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