Brazil ended a 27-year title drought by winning the 21st Copa América on home soil in 1949.
Key Facts
- Edition
- 21st Copa América
- Winner
- Brazil
- Runner-up
- Paraguay
- Top scorer
- Jair Rosa Pinto (Brazil)
- Goals by top scorer
- 9 goals
- Years since Brazil's last title
- 27 years
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Brazil had gone without an official South American Championship title since 1922, when they last hosted and won the tournament. Argentina's withdrawal reduced the field of competitors, and the tournament was held again on Brazilian soil, giving the hosts a home advantage.
The 1949 South American Championship was hosted by Brazil and contested among South American national teams. Brazil won the tournament, with Paraguay finishing as runner-up. Jair Rosa Pinto of Brazil was the top scorer, netting nine goals across the competition.
Brazil's victory ended a 27-year official title drought, restoring the nation's standing in continental football. The tournament reinforced Brazil's reputation as a major football power ahead of the 1950 FIFA World Cup, which they would also host.