The Mexico national football team and the Brazil national football team have a rich history of competitive matches, with encounters spanning several decades. Both teams are known for their passionate fan bases and exceptional talent on the field. This article delves into the timeline of matches between these two football powerhouses, highlighting key games, memorable moments, and the evolution of their rivalry.
Early Encounters: 1950s-1960s
The first official match between Mexico and Brazil took place during the 1950 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. This initial encounter set the stage for a rivalry that would grow in intensity over the years.
1950 FIFA World Cup
- Date: June 24, 1950
- Venue: Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Result: Brazil 4-0 Mexico
In this match, Brazil showcased their prowess with a dominant performance, winning 4-0. This victory highlighted Brazil’s footballing strength and marked the beginning of Mexico’s quest to compete at the highest level.
1962 FIFA World Cup
- Date: May 30, 1962
- Venue: Estadio Sausalito, Viña del Mar, Chile
- Result: Brazil 2-0 Mexico
The 1962 World Cup saw another group stage encounter between the two teams, with Brazil once again emerging victorious. Goals from Zagallo and Pelé ensured a 2-0 win for Brazil, who went on to win the tournament.
The Growth of a Rivalry: 1970s-1980s
As both teams developed, their encounters became more competitive, with Mexico gradually closing the gap on their illustrious opponents.
1970 FIFA World Cup
- Date: June 3, 1970
- Venue: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico
- Result: Brazil 4-0 Mexico
Playing on home soil, Mexico faced Brazil in the group stage of the 1970 World Cup. Despite the support of the home crowd, Mexico fell to a 4-0 defeat. Brazil, led by stars like Pelé and Tostão, displayed their dominance once more and went on to win the World Cup.
1986 FIFA World Cup
- Date: June 7, 1986
- Venue: Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Result: Mexico 0-0 Brazil (Group Stage)
The 1986 World Cup, also hosted by Mexico, saw a significant development in the rivalry. The group stage match between the two ended in a goalless draw, showcasing Mexico’s improved defensive capabilities. This match was pivotal as it demonstrated that Mexico could compete with the best.
Modern Era: 1990s-Present
The matches between Mexico and Brazil in the modern era have been characterized by thrilling encounters and memorable moments, often with high stakes.
1999 FIFA Confederations Cup Final
- Date: August 4, 1999
- Venue: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico
- Result: Mexico 4-3 Brazil
One of the most memorable matches in the history of this rivalry was the final of the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup. Mexico, playing in front of their home fans, triumphed in a thrilling 4-3 victory. Goals from Miguel Zepeda, José Manuel Abundis, Cuauhtémoc Blanco, and an own goal by Brazil’s Zé Roberto secured the win, giving Mexico one of their most significant victories against Brazil.
2005 FIFA Confederations Cup
- Date: June 19, 2005
- Venue: AWD-Arena, Hanover, Germany
- Result: Mexico 1-0 Brazil
In the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup, Mexico once again proved their mettle by defeating Brazil 1-0 in the group stage. A goal from Jared Borgetti was enough to secure the win, showcasing Mexico’s growing confidence and capability on the international stage.
2012 Summer Olympics Final
- Date: August 11, 2012
- Venue: Wembley Stadium, London, England
- Result: Mexico 2-1 Brazil
One of the most significant matches in recent times was the final of the 2012 Summer Olympics. Mexico’s U-23 team faced Brazil in the gold medal match and secured a historic 2-1 victory, with Oribe Peralta scoring both goals for Mexico. This win marked Mexico’s first Olympic gold medal in football and a significant achievement against a strong Brazilian side.
2014 FIFA World Cup
- Date: June 17, 2014
- Venue: Estádio Castelão, Fortaleza, Brazil
- Result: Brazil 0-0 Mexico
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil saw another memorable encounter between the two teams, ending in a 0-0 draw. Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa delivered a standout performance, making several crucial saves to keep the Brazilian attack at bay.
2018 FIFA World Cup
- Date: July 2, 2018
- Venue: Samara Arena, Samara, Russia
- Result: Brazil 2-0 Mexico
In the Round of 16 of the 2018 World Cup, Brazil defeated Mexico 2-0. Goals from Neymar and Roberto Firmino secured the win for Brazil, ending Mexico’s World Cup journey.
Conclusion
The rivalry between the Mexico national football team and the Brazil national football team is filled with exciting matches and memorable moments. From their early encounters in the 1950s to the modern-day clashes, both teams have showcased their strengths and provided fans with thrilling football. While Brazil has often had the upper hand, Mexico has achieved significant victories, highlighting their growth and competitiveness on the international stage. As both teams continue to develop, future encounters promise to add more chapters to this storied rivalry.