Maracanazo 1950
The 1950 World Cup final that stunned Brazil and changed football history.
The Maracanazo was the 1950 World Cup final match between Brazil and Uruguay at the Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil needed only a draw to win the tournament, but Uruguay defeated them 2–1, winning the World Cup. The defeat led to a period of national mourning in Brazil and marked the end of the Brazil team wearing white as their default uniform.
Quick Facts
- Event
- 1950 FIFA World Cup Final
- Date
- July 16, 1950
- Venue
- Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Opponent
- Uruguay
- Result
- Brazil lost 1-2
- Key brazilian goal
- Friaça (44th minute)
- Scorers for uruguay
- Alcides Ghiggia, Juan Schiaffino
Lore & Background
After World War II caused widespread destruction in Europe, Brazil's bid to host the 1950 FIFA World Cup went unopposed. During the tournament's group stage, Brazil defeated Mexico 4–0, tied with Switzerland 2–2, and defeated Yugoslavia 2–0. In the final group stage, Brazil defeated Sweden 7–1 and Spain 6–1. In the last game of the final round against Uruguay at the Maracanã, Brazil needed a win or draw to achieve a World Cup victory. Uruguay defeated Brazil 2–1, winning the World Cup in a game known as the Maracanazo.
More in Iconic Matches & Classics
Elsewhere in Brazil National Team
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced