This Wednesday marks the 75th anniversary of one of the most dramatic moments in football history: the final match of the 1950 FIFA World Cup, where host nation Brazil suffered a shocking defeat to Uruguay at the legendary Maracanã Stadium, in front of over 200,000 spectators, according to records from the time.

The Day Pelé Saw His Father Cry

The emotional impact of that match was so profound that Pelé later confessed it was the first time he ever saw his father cry. And he wasn’t alone all of Brazil cried that day.

A World Cup With a Unique Format

The 1950 World Cup was the first held after World War II. Only 13 teams participated six from Europe and seven from the Americas divided into four groups. The winner of each group advanced to a final round-robin stage.

The four finalists were Brazil, Uruguay, Spain, and Sweden. Brazil dominated Spain and Sweden, while Uruguay drew with the Spanish and defeated the Swedes. That set up a decisive clash between the South American neighbors to determine the world champion.

Brazil, The Overwhelming Favorite

The final took place on July 16, 1950. Brazil, the host nation and overwhelming favorite, took the lead with a goal from Friaca in the 47th minute. But Uruguay stunned the massive crowd with a stunning comeback Schiaffino equalized in the 66th minute, and at the 79th, Alcides Ghiggia scored the goal that shattered Brazil dreams and gave Uruguay the title.

The victory was described at the time as "the greatest miracle in football history" not just because of the result, but because of the manner in which it was achieved: against the heavy favorite, in their home stadium, and in front of a record-breaking crowd.

Ghiggia: The Man Who Made a Nation Cry

Alcides Edgardo Ghiggia, just 23 years old at the time, was the hero of the match. He started all four of Uruguay games in the tournament and scored in each one, but the goal against Brazil forever immortalized him in the annals of football history.

A Date That Will Never Be Forgotten

The "Maracanazo" remains one of football’s most iconic moments even 75 years later. In Uruguay, it’s a source of national pride, still celebrated with joy. In Brazil, it’s a painful memory one many would rather erase. A tragic day for one side, a glorious one for the other, but undeniably a moment that changed the course of football forever.