The 1950 FIFA World Cup was the fourth FIFA World Cup and the first for some time with the cancellations of the 1942 and 1946 World Cups. FIFA were desperate to get the competition going again against a backdrop of disinterest and certainly an unwillingness to spend money on a sporting event after World War 2.
England notably decided to rejoin FIFA and compete at this tournament after a self-imposed 17 year exile and went into the tournament as hot favourites after impressive results against other European teams. Many teams did withdraw from the tournament including Scotland despite being eligible.
The World Cup went ahead with 13 teams (despite 16 teams being in the draw). The deciding match was played between the hosts Brazil and Uruguay at the Estádio do Maracanã. 199,954 fans watched the match (Some estimate the attendance was even higher) that became known as the ‘Maracanazo’. Brazil were hot favourites and would win the World Cup even if they drew their final match after thrashing Sweden and Spain 7-1 and 6-1.
Uruguay however beat Brazil on the 79th minute with a goal from Alcide Ghiggia that beat Barbossa, it was a stunning defeat for Brazil and Uruguay lifted the trophy for their second and last time.
Source: DSG
