History

1950 Host: Brazil Champion: Uruguay

After a 12-year interruption following World War II, the Finals went back to South America. Brazil was awarded the reopening of the competition and built a new 200,000-seat stadium in Rio de Janiero called Maracana.

Brazil entered the tournament as the heavy favorite.

For the first time ever, the four British Federations participated in the qualifiers, with England being the lone representative to advance to the Finals.

The greatest upset in international soccer history took place in the opening round. The United States, on a goal by Larry Gaetjens, scored a shocking 1-0 victory over England.

Brazil, which played magnificently throughout the opening round, went into the Final needing only a draw in the round robin tournament to win the title. However, Uruguay, playing a European brand of soccer, got second half goals from Juan Jose Schiaffino and Alcide Ghiggia to defeat their South American rivals, 2-1, and reclaim the World Cup title.

Ademir of Brazil was the leading scorer with nine goals.

Brazil's head coach, Flavio Costa, had to be hidden by police to avoid the fans' vengeance.