Uruguay's defeat of host Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final round, known as the Maracanaço, remains one of football's most storied upsets.
Key Facts
- Edition
- 4th FIFA World Cup
- Host nation
- Brazil
- Tournament dates
- 24 June – 16 July 1950
- Gap since last World Cup
- 12 years (1938–1950)
- Winner
- Uruguay
- Trophy name introduced
- Jules Rimet Cup
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
The 1942 and 1946 FIFA World Cups were cancelled due to World War II, leaving a 12-year gap since the 1938 tournament. Brazil was selected as host for the resumed 1950 edition, and the format used a final round robin group of four teams rather than a single knockout final match.
Held in Brazil from 24 June to 16 July 1950, the tournament saw two-time defending champion Italy eliminated in the first round. In the decisive final-round match, Uruguay defeated host nation Brazil, clinching the championship in what became known as the Maracanaço. It was the only World Cup not decided by a single final match.
Uruguay's unexpected victory over Brazil became one of the most referenced upsets in football history, embedding the term Maracanaço in sporting culture. The tournament also marked the first official use of the Jules Rimet Cup name for the trophy, commemorating 25 years of Jules Rimet's FIFA presidency.
Result
at Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro