The Uruguay National Football Team vs Brazil National Football Team Timeline is one of the most captivating and competitive stories in football.
Spanning over a century, this rivalry has produced some unforgettable moments in both South American and global football history — from Maracanazo to recent World Cup qualifiers.
This timeline covers every significant match that defines their fierce competition between two footballing powerhouses.
Overview of Uruguay-Brazil Rivalry
The football rivalry between Uruguay and Brazil, known as “Clasico del Rio de la Plata”, stems from their geographical and historical ties.
Over many tournaments such as FIFA World Cup, Copa America, and World Cup Qualifiers, both sides have engaged in numerous battles for supremacy.
Brazil boasts an illustrious footballing legacy with five FIFA World Cup wins, while Uruguay has made an enormous impact in international football, having won two World Cups and 15 Copa America championships.
These different legacies add even greater intensity to their rivalry.
Major Matches in the Uruguay vs Brazil Timeline
1. 1950 FIFA World Cup Final – Maracanazo
| Date & Location | July 16, 1950 – Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro |
|---|---|
| Result | Uruguay 2–1 Brazil |
Significance:
Dubbed “The Maracanazo”, this match was one of Uruguay’s most iconic victories. Uruguay unexpectedly defeated Brazil before an audience of over 200,000 spectators to clinch the World Cup, cementing their place in football history.
It remains one of the greatest upsets ever and an integral moment in their rivalry.
2. 1983 Copa America Final
| Date | July 10, 1983 |
|---|---|
| Result | Uruguay 2–0 Brazil (Aggregate) |
Significance:
Uruguay’s 2–0 aggregate victory in this final marked their 12th Copa America crown and showcased their continued dominance against South American football giants like Brazil.
3. 1995 Copa America Final
| Date | July 23, 1995 |
|---|---|
| Result | Uruguay 1–1 Brazil (Uruguay won 5–3 on penalties) |
Significance:
In an intense final that ended in a 1–1 draw, Uruguay triumphed 5–3 in a penalty shootout to win their 14th Copa America championship.
This victory remains one of the greatest achievements on the Uruguay vs Brazil national football team timeline.
4. 2001 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
| Date & Location | July 1, 2001 – Estadio Centenario, Montevideo |
|---|---|
| Result | Uruguay 1–0 Brazil |
Significance:
In an important qualifier, Federico Magallanes scored the only goal to give Uruguay a crucial victory, helping them qualify for the 2002 FIFA World Cup and adding another proud chapter to their rivalry.
5. 2003 FIFA World Cup Qualifier
| Date & Location | November 18, 2003 – Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro |
|---|---|
| Result | Brazil 3–3 Uruguay |
Significance:
This thrilling 3–3 draw showcased the fierce competition between the two teams.
Both sides fought hard, demonstrating the balance of power and the high stakes in their encounters.
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6. 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup Semi-Final
| Date & Location | June 26, 2013 – Mineirão Stadium, Belo Horizonte |
|---|---|
| Result | Brazil 2–1 Uruguay |
Significance:
Brazil secured a 2–1 victory in a dramatic semi-final, thanks to goals from Fred and Paulinho, booking their place in the Confederations Cup Final.
7. 2024 Copa America Quarter-Final
| Date & Venue | July 7, 2024 – Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas |
|---|---|
| Result | Uruguay 0–0 Brazil (Uruguay won 4–2 on penalties) |
Significance:
In an intense goalless draw decided by penalties, Uruguay prevailed 4–2 to reach the Copa America semi-finals.
This match highlighted Uruguay’s composure under pressure against Brazil.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Since 2010, Uruguay and Brazil have met head-to-head in numerous tournaments.
Here’s a look at their all-time head-to-head record:
| Team | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals Scored | Goals Conceded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | 38 | 22 | 21 | 143 | 101 |
| Uruguay | 21 | 22 | 38 | 101 | 143 |
Although Brazil holds the edge with more wins overall, Uruguay remains a formidable adversary, especially in crucial finals and qualifiers.
Both teams have proven evenly matched, underlining the intense competitiveness of their encounters.
Future Prospects of the Rivalry
Both Brazil and Uruguay have secured their spots for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
This sets up future encounters that could add new chapters to their storied rivalry.
| Upcoming Event | Date & Location |
|---|---|
| 2026 FIFA World Cup | June–July 2026 – USA, Mexico & Canada |
| 2024 Copa America Final | July 7, 2024 – Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas |
Football fans worldwide eagerly await the next clash between these two footballing giants.
Conclusion
The Uruguay National Football Team vs Brazil National Football Team Timeline stands as one of the most captivating rivalries in world football.
From the 1950 Maracanazo to dramatic penalty shootout victories and modern-day thrillers, every meeting adds to a legacy of passion, pride, and drama.
This rivalry will continue to capture fans worldwide and inspire generations of football lovers for years to come. ⚽
Visit FIFA’s official website for more insights on the Uruguay vs Brazil rivalry
