1949 South American Championship play-off

The 1949 South American Championship play-off was a match held to determine the winner of the 1949 South American Championship, the 21st edition of this continental championship, as Brazil and Paraguay were tied for the first place after the regular competition. The match took place on May 11, 1949, at Estádio São Januário in Rio de Janeiro.

Brazil had won all its previous matches, thrashing their rivals in all of them (totaling 36 goals in 5 games). Nevertheless, the 2–1 loss to Paraguay caused both teams tied on points so a play-off match had to be played to crown a champion.

On the other hand, the Paraguay side had a strong team with such notable players, regarded by some journalists as the best of its history. In fact, the Paraguayan side achieved some notable results such as the 2nd place in the previous edition.

Brazil won the match against Paraguay, thrashing them by 7–0 and winning its 3rd. continental title.

Background

 * Notes:
 * Brazil and Paraguay finished tied on points so a playoff match had to be played to decide the champion.