In
the late 80s, CONMEBOL members had decided to hold the Copa America every two
years, rotating from host to host. For the 1989 edition, Brazil were selected
as the hosts. The last time they had this duty was back in 1949, which was also
the last time Brazil had won the Copa America. This was remarkable given that
in that period they had won the World Cup three times. The 1987 Edition of the
Copa America in Argentina had been criticized for its organization and format
that had manifested in a low turnout.
The
format of this 1989 Copa would be revised from previous years. The ten teams
would be separated in two Groups of five teams. They would play one another in
a round-robin format. The top two teams in each Group would then be placed in a
Final Group of four teams (once again round-robin) and the winner would be
decided on points. The Final Group concept was very similar to the 1950 World
Cup, also in Brazil. Given how that had turned out, it was surprising that the
Brazilian organizers had decided on this particular format.
Many
hoped that this new format would generate more interest among teams and
especially fans and increase competition.
This
competition was also to be played just less than a couple of months from World
Cup 1990 Qualifiers in the region and many Managers viewed this Copa as an
ideal preparation for the more important objective of World Cup qualification.
This
of course, did not concern the defending World Cup Champions Argentina.
However, Argentina Manager Carlos Bilardo viewed the Copa as his last chance
for Argentina to play and participate in a competitive manner before the
following year’s World Cup.
As
always everything about Argentina depended on the form (mental as well as
physical) of Diego Maradona, the greatest player on the planet.
Going
into this Tournament, there were rumors of his impending transfer from Napoli
to French club Olympique Marseille of ambitious President Bernard Tapie.
Despite
being victorious in the UEFA Cup, his end of the season with Napoli had ended
on a sour note and he had given indications that he was fed up with pressures
of the Serie A and would welcome a change of scenery.
Other
1986 regulars and veterans were still part of Bilardo’s plans, such as Jorge
Burruchaga, Nery Pumpido, Giusti, Clausen, Brown and Oscar Ruggeri.
A
1982 World Cup veteran, Gabriel Calderon had made his way back into Bilardo’s
plans after a good season at Paris St. Germain.
There
were also a number of young up and coming players who were seen as the future
of Argentinean football, amongst them: Caniggia, Troglio, Sensini and Balbo.
Uruguay
were now under the command of Oscar Washington Tabarez. Like his predecessors
he relied upon the likes of Enzo Francescolli, Ruben Sosa, Ruben Paz, Hugo De
Leon and Antonio Alzamendi.
Much
was expected of Colombia and Chile who had impressed in the last Copa. Like
Argentina, they were the only Nations that had retained their managers from the
last Edition. Colombia Manager Pacho Maturana relied on the talents of Carlos
Valderrama and the goalkeeper-sweeper Rene Higuita.
Chile
Manager Orlando Aravena was dependent on his impressive Captain and goalkeeper
Roberto Rojas in a side that included a number of players based abroad.
Although
they had to do without Ivo Basay, who was not released by French Club Stade
Reims. Others missing were Jorge Aravena, Hugo Rubio
and Ivan Zamorano.
Paraguay
had qualified at the last World Cup, but had a disappointing Copa the last time
around. They were missing foreign-based players such as Roberto Cabanas
(Brest), Julio Cesar Romero (Barcelona), Jorge Nunes (Deportivo Cali) and
goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert (Real Zaragoza).
It
had been reported that their squad had been training together in preparations
for this Copa for as much as 14 months.
Ecuador
had appointed Yugoslavian Manager Dusan Draskovic in hopes of improving from
last time around.
Not
much was expected of Peru (in decline) and Bolivia and Venezuela, the weakest
team on the continent.
The
main talking point, needless to say, was about the state of affairs of the
Brazilian National Team. They had appointed Sebastiao Lazaroni in the new year
(January 15th, 1989). His appointment had been very controversial as
he was openly advocating for a more European (defensive) style of play and
tactics and a break from ‘Jogo Bonito’ (that he felt was out-dated). He
believed with their traditional tactics they had won nothing for nearly twenty
years and were lagging behind Europe and could not hope to win a future World
Cup unless they adapted to new modern European style of play that emphasized on
a strong defense.
 |
Photo
From: Triunfo N 164 24-07-1989
(Lazaroni) |
He
had selected mostly home-based players in friendlies. He had just taken Brazil
on a disastrous tour of Europe that had yielded losses against Denmark (0-4),
Sweden (1-2) and Switzerland (0-1). Lazaroni was eager to try out his tactics
with more experienced players (some of whom were playing in Europe) in the
Copa.
Lazaroni
decided that Brazil would play with a Libero and two stoppers and two outside
backs (5-3-2 formation). For Lazaroni, the outside backs would have a role in
going forward and creating chances.
Mauro
Galvao would be Lazaroni’s Libero despite not playing the position at his club.
Lazaroni
was hampered with a number of absences. His first choice as right back, the
Flamengo defender Jorginho, as well as, Team captain and veteran striker Careca
of Napoli, would miss the Tournament through injuries.
In
addition, defenders Julio Cesar and Carlos Mozer were not released by their
French clubs Montpellier and Olympique Marseille respectively.
Torino
based striker Luis Muller arrived only three days before the start of the Copa.
Lazaroni judged him not ready for the Copa and notified that he would select
him for the World Cup Qualifiers (starting July 30th). Muller left
the squad in anger.
Careca
and Muller’s absence had forced Lazaroni to call-up Baltazar (the top
goalscorer in Spain with Atletico Madrid) and Charles of Bahia. Many Rio
newspapers referred to the selection of Charles as a ‘diplomatic call up’, since Brazil were based there.
It
was the selection of Charles that would threaten to derail not only Lazaroni’s
plans but his employment.
Brazil
were to play their first three matches of their Group at Salvador in Bahia.
They
were in Group A along with Paraguay, Colombia, Peru and Venezuela.
Lazaroni
had requested the selection of 24 players, but CONMEBOL would authorize only 20
players for the First Round and 24 players in the Final Round.
This
forced Lazaroni to eliminate players from the first round and Charles was one
of those.
This
decision would have a profound effect on the National Team for the rest of
their stay at Bahia, as the locals turned on the National Team.
Bahia’s
President actually went to Hotel Quatro Rodas where the National Team were
stationed and took away Charles. He furthermore declared that Lazaroni’s days
as National Team Manager were numbered.
A
local Television station fanned the flames even further by editing a montage of
Charles, showing him how his National Team colleagues in matches would snub
him. The Television Station also went on to refer to the Brazil Federation
(CBF) as bandits and Mafioso.
Their
first match was vs. Venezuela on July 1st. The match was to be
played after the opening Match of the Tournament that saw Paraguay defeat Peru
in convincing fashion (5-2) at the same venue.
Paraguay’s
teenage player Gustavo Neffa stood out and became one of the revelations of
this Tournament.
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2258, July 18, 1989
(July
1, 1989, Copa America, Paraguay 5-Peru 2)
|
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2258, July 18, 1989
(July 1, 1989, Copa America, Paraguay 5-Peru 2) |
To
show their discontent the public stayed away (the 90,000 capacity stadium was
barely full) and those who did attend vented their anger at the Brazilian Team
for not selecting their local hero Charles.
Fans
threw projectiles on the field to such an extent that the two teams were unable
to take the Official team photos. The Brazilian substitutes sitting in the VIP
stands were relentlessly heckled and were forced to leave.
As
far as matters on the field, Lazaroni was unable to include Aldair in defense,
as he was ill, he therefore included Andre Cruz. In Jorginho’s absence, Mazinho
started at right back and he would go on to be one of the revelations of the
Copa.
The
Venezuelans were expected to lose and lined up in a defensive formation of
4-2-2-2.
Brazil
took the lead in the second minute through a long-range shot by Bebeto (under a
chorus of boos).
In
the 12th minute, Brazil lost Tita to injury (he would miss the rest
of the Tournament). He was replaced by Paulo Silas.
 |
Photo
From: Foot Magazine, Issue 96, October 1989
(Romario,
July 1, 1989, Copa America, Brazil 3-Venezuela 1)
|
In
the 36th minute, Bebeto was fouled by Venezuela goalkeeper in the
box and was injured in the process. He held on until halftime, but after the
break was replaced by Baltazar.
Geovani
scored from the ensuing penalty kick to double Brazil’s lead.
In
the 57th minute, Ricardo set up Baltazar for Brazil’s third.
Venezuela
pulled a goal back through Carlos Maldonado in the 63rd minute. This was Venezuela’s first ever goal vs.
Brazil. Unbeknown at the time, this would also turn out to be the first, last
and only goal that Brazil conceded in the Tournament.
Maldonado’s
goal actually received the most cheers from the hostile crowd.
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2257, July 11, 1989
(Bebeto, July 1, 1989, Copa America, Brazil
3-Venezuela 1) |
Venezuela’s Argentinean Manager Carlos Horacio Moreno was surprised of
Lazaroni’s tactics. He said "We were expecting
an avalanche, but Brazil had more defenders than attackers. Too modern for my
taste."
Afterwards
Bebeto showed his discontent at the reception, that he described worse than on
a foreign soil. It was especially hurtful to him, since he was born in Bahia.
Along
with Bebeto, Ricardo and Branco had impressed the most, while a somewhat unfit
Romario disappointed.
But
Brazil’s greatest disappointment had been Geovani. He was being built up as
Brazil’s next great hope (and on his way to Italy to Bologna). He would go on
to be Brazil’s biggest flop at the Copa, but for the time being Lazaroni would
persevere with him.
An
interesting aspect of this match was Carlos Dunga and Renato’s trek from Italy
to arrive at the match. They had played in a UEFA Cup qualification match.
Dunga’s Fiorentina had defeated Renato’s AS Roma (1-0). After the match they
drove together from Perugia to Milan to take a plane to Rio. At 5 AM Rio time,
they boarded another plane to Salvador. In the end, after they arrived, they
both sat on the bench.
The
next round of matches in the Group was two days later on July 3rd.
Colombia predictably defeated Venezuela (4-2). Goalkeeper Rene Higuita scored
their fisrt goal from a penalty kick. The penalty kick had been awarded after
Luis Camacaro had fouled Carlos Hoyos in the box.
Venezuela’s
both goals were scored by Carlos Maldonado (his personal third in the Copa).
Brazil
took on Peru once again in a hostile atmosphere. Lazaroni had Aldair back and
started with him. He took out Mazinho to field Napoli’s Ricardo Alemao. Carlos
Dunga started in midfield along with Geovani who once again would have a
disappointing match. Brazil were disappointing as a whole and the match ended
scoreless.
The
match was interrupted at the 46th minute due to light failure that lasted
27 minutes.
Near
the end of the match, Peru goalkeeper Jesús Purizaga was sent
off after retaliating against Renato.
Such
was the reception that Lazaroni was ready to play the next match at Recife (for
a better field and crowd).
Two
days later (July 5th), Peru and Venezuela played in a (1-1) tie.
Once again Maldonado scored for Venezuela (4th goal). On the same
day, Paraguay defeated a disappointing Colombia (1-0) with Neffa setting up
Mendoza’s winner in the 51st minute.
Paraguay
followed up with another win two days later (July 7th) vs. Venezuela
(3-0) to qualify for the Final Round. Paraguay’s newfound star Gustavo Neffa
opened the scoring, followed by a double strike by Buenaventura Ferreira.
Later
that day, Brazil took on Colombia once again under constant abuse from their
own ‘fans’.
Lazaroni
started with Renato and Baltazar instead of Bebeto and Romario.
Romario
had been so unfit and out of form that he himself had asked not to play.
According to him, it was the first time ever that he had made such a request.
Lazaroni
also started for the last time with Alemao in defense and the
ever-disappointing Goevani in midfield.
The
match once again ended in a scoreless draw that satisfied neither team.
These
matches were also the last ones at Salvador. For the last round of matches in
this Group, the teams relocated to Recife.
For
Brazil moving to Recife was a welcome change as they finally were to receive
the home support and public encouragement that they needed.
On
July 9th, Colombia tied Peru (1-1) to exit from the Tournament.
The
local crowd applauded Peru as they could help eliminate Colombia.
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2258, July 18, 1989
(July
9, 1989, Copa America, Colombia 1-Peru 1)
|
 |
Photo
From: Official Match Programme, England
v Uruguay, 1990
(Carlos Valderrama, July 9, 1989, Copa America,
Colombia 1-Peru 1) |
Brazil
were to take on already qualified Paraguay. Paraguay fielded a reserve side to
rest its starters.
Canete,
Mendoza, Ferrerira, Guasch, Delgado and Fernandez were all rested. Torrales and
Gustavo Neffa were the only starters who played.
It
had been reported that the pair had played in their previous match while on
ephedrine. They were eventually cleared of the charges.
Brazil
fielded what would become its set lineup for the remainder of the Copa.
Claudio
Taffarel in the net, with a defensive shield of Mazinho and Branco as outside
backs. The central defenders were Ricardo, Aldair and Mauro Galvao.
The
midfield consisted of Dunga, Silas (displacing the disappointing Geovani) and
Valdo.
Finally
in the attack, Lazaroni reconstituted the Bebeto and Romario duo.
Brazil,
finally playing like a good team, defeated Paraguay (2-0) with a double strike
from Bebeto to qualify with Paraguay to the Final Round.
Bebeto
scored the first in the 47th minute when a corner from left was
headed across the goal towards him on the far post. His powerful shot was
deflected into the net by Paraguay goalkeeper Ruiz Diaz. In the 83rd
minute, he scored his second, side footing a cross from Mazinho from the right
side.
 |
Photo
From: Onze-Mondial, Issue 7, August 1989
(Bebeto, July 9, 1989, Copa America, Brazil
2-Paraguay 0) |
In
Group B, Argentina’s group contained rivals Uruguay along with Chile. Ecuador
and Bolivia. This group was based at Goiânia and would play its matches at
Estádio Serra Dourada.
Needless
to say, wherever Maradona was there was a media circus surrounding him. His
arrival was no different. He arrived with his wife, two children (a privilege
afforded to no other player), personal doctor, physical trainer and a few
friends (in total an entourage of more than 20 people). He was given four
suites at Goiânia’s only five star Hotel. In the end, he chose to room up with
goalkeeper Nery Pumpido.
A
long season and the on-going transfer rumors would affect his play and he would
be a shadow of his usual self during this Tournament that perhaps he wished he
could have skipped to get a much-needed rest.
This
Group started its matches on July 2nd with the Ecuador-Uruguay
matchup.
Ecuador’s
Team Captain Hamilton Cuvi was confident of a victory against the favored
Uruguayans. He believed much progress had been made since 1987.
 |
Photo
From: Onze-Mondial, Issue 7, August 1989
(July 2, 1989, Copa America, Ecuador 1-Uruguay
0) |
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2257, July 11, 1989
(July 2, 1989, Copa America, Ecuador 1-Uruguay
0) |
Uruguay
were to miss Captain Enzo Francescolli and Jose Perdomo for the first two
matches. The pair were suspended for being sent off in the Final of the 1987
Copa America.
The
Surprising Ecuador side provided an upset when they scored the winning goal in
the 88th through a counter attack. Cuvi launched Ney Aviles on the
left wing. He crossed for Hermen Benitez to score the winning goal.
Ecuador Manager Dusan Draskovic stated, "No one expected us
to play in a European style….My orientation was to compensate for the lack of
skill with rigid marking."
Uruguay
Manager Oscar Washington Tabarez was unconcerned about the result as his
objective was the 1990 World Cup qualifiers.
He also blamed the heat for their loss, since he had prepared the
team for two months in cold climates.
On
the same day, Argentina took on Chile. Both teams were missing a player from
Spanish club Real Betis. Argentina goalkeeper Nery Pumpido and Chile forward
Patricio Yanez were not released as Betis had a League match.
Pumpido’s
absence gave an opportunity for Luis Islas to make a rare start.
When
asked how his team would play, Chile manager Orlando Aravena coyly responded
‘Red, Blue and White.’ (He was also the only Manager that only allowed Chilean
journalists at his team training sessions. Foreign journalists were barred).
In
a dull match where Maradona seemed lethargic, Argentina took the lead and won
(1-0) with a goal in the 56th minute. Roberto Rojas parried Pedro
Troglio’s shot and Claudio Caniggia scored from the rebound.
Chile
had opted to play with defensive tactics. They were so extra cautious that
according to critics they made Argentina look ‘adventurous’.
 |
Photo
From: Onze-Mondial, Issue 7, August 1989
(Claudio Caniggia, July 2, 1989, Copa America,
Argentina 1-Chile 0) |
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico, 3639, 1989
(Diego
Maradona, July 2, 1989, Copa America, Argentina 1-Chile 0)
|
Two
days later (July 4th), Uruguay (still without Francescolli and
Perdomo) got back to winning ways by defeating Bolivia (3-0) with a double
strike from Santiago Ostolaza and one from Ruben Sosa.
Ostolaza
opened the scoring in the 29th minute, when his long-range shot hit
Bolivia goalkeeper Marco Barrero’s back before going in.
In
the 33rd minute, Jose Herera crossed from the right side for Sosa to
score the second.
Ostolaza
scored his second and Uruguay’s third in the 59th minute by heading
in a corner.
On
the same day Argentina were once again disappointing in a scoreless tie with
Ecuador. In fact they were lucky that Ecuador’s Jimmy Izquierdo missed a
penalty kick in the 55th minute. Argentina were still missing
Pumpido and Islas started for the second match running. The Argentines also had
Alfaro Moreno sent off near the end. Ecuador’s Luis Capurro was likewise sent
off in the second half.
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico, 3640, 1989
(July 4, 1989, Copa America, Argentina 0-Ecuador
0) |
After
watching Argentina’s display, Chile Manager Orlando Aravena expressed some
regret for his defensive tactics vs. Argentina. He said if he had known of
Argentina’s form he would have taken more risks.
Two
days later (July 6th), Ecuador missed a good opportunity to earn
points by being held scoreless by Bolivia.
On
the same day, the rematch of the 1987 Final took place between Uruguay and
Chile.
After
their match vs. Argentina, Chile Captain and goalkeeper Roberto Rojas, along
with Jaime Vera, had held a meeting with Manager Orlando Aravena.
They
felt they had played too defensively vs. Argentina and asked for a change in
tactics. Aravena replied that those who did not like the tactics could return
to Santiago.
Rojas
stated that he would not leave the squad, but left it up to Aravena if he still
wanted to select him. Aravena replied such a possibility was out of the
question, since Rojas was too valuable to him.
Perhaps,
he should have listened to his players, since with the same tactics; Uruguay
defeated Chile (3-0). Uruguay made efficient use of counterattacking tactics.
They had Francescolli and Perdomo in the lineup for the first time.
In
the 44th minute, Sosa headed in a corner by Alzamendi. In the 72nd
minute, Alzamendi intercepted Vera’s pass in midfield and ran through and
scored.
In
the 78th, Perdomo sent Sosa through on right side, his cross reached
Alzamendi but Rojas blocked him. Francescolli followed through to score.
Two
days later (July 8th), Chile finally showed some promise by
defeating Bolivia (5-0) to maintain some hope.
 |
Photo
From: Deporte Total N 422 17-07-1989
(July
8, 1989, Copa America, Chile 5-Bolivia 0)
|
 |
Photo
From: Triunfo Nª 163 17-07-1989 (1)
(July 8, 1989, Copa America, Chile 5-Bolivia 0) |
Argentina
faced off against Uruguay on the same day. Argentina now had starting
goalkeeper Nery Pumpido back in the squad. The Argentines played virtually the
entire match with ten men after Oscar Ruggeri was sent off in the 16th
minute after a foul on Francescolli.
Upon
this incident, Bilardo asked Basualdo to mark Francescolli and assigned Troglio
to drop back to mark Paz.
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico 3640, 1989
(July 8, 1989, Copa America, Argentina 1-Uruguay
0) |
Despite
being a man down, the Argentines nevertheless won the match by taking the lead
in the 68th minute. From the middle, Maradona sent Caniggia through
on left side. His shot from a narrow angle was touched by Zeoli but could not
stop it from going in.
 |
Photo
From: France Football, Issue 2258, July 18, 1989
(July 8, 1989, Copa America, Argentina 1-Uruguay
0) |
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico 3640, 1989
(Diego Maradona, July 8, 1989, Copa America,
Argentina 1-Uruguay 0) |
The
Group was still undecided going into the last round of matches (July 10th).
Chile
needed three goals to advance but only managed to defeat Ecuador (2-1). Despite
being level on points with both Ecuador and Uruguay, Uruguay edged ahead with
superior goal difference.
Bolivia
held Argentina scoreless on the same day. Argentina despite being unimpressive
had won the Group, but had scored only two goals in the process. Their defense
had held firm and still unbreached in the Tournament.
The
Final Group matches were all played at Rio’s Maracana Stadium.
The
Traditional powers Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay had made it along with a
surprising Paraguay side.
On
July 12th, Uruguay showed its class by defeating Paraguay (3-0).
Once again, Uruguay were efficient in their use of counterattacks that Paraguay
had no answer for.
In
the 28th minute, Alzamendi picked up Sosa on the right side. He
dribbled around Fernandez, who had ventured out, and crossed for Francescolli
to head in empty net. In the 85th minute, Sosa on the right side
picked up Alzamendi to score the second. In the 90th minute,
Alzamendi picked up Ruben Paz who beat Fernandez one on one.
All
goals were from counterattacks after Paraguay had lost possession.
 |
Photo
From: Official Match Programme, England
v Uruguay, 1990
(July 12, 1989, Copa America, Uruguay 3-Paraguay
0) |
The
big match followed this with Brazil taking on Argentina. Bilardo chose to leave
Maradona alone upfront.
Brazil
with an excellent Branco were in control and had grown in confidence now that
the experience of Bahia was behind them.
In
the 48th minute Brazil took the lead. Branco from the left side
crossed to the right side near post for Silas. He crossed back into the box for
Romario, who laid it on for Bebeto to score a spectacular goal.
Minutes
later in the 55th minute, Brazil doubled its lead. Jose Luis Brown
attempted to clear but missed the ball. Romario pounced on it to score.
Romario
after a difficult start to the Tournament had now found his form just like the
rest of the team.
 |
Photo
From: Triunfo Nª 163 17-07-1989
(Bebeto
and Silas, July 12, 1989, Copa America, Brazil 2-Argentina 0)
|
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico, 3641, 1989
(July 12, 1989, Copa America, Brazil 2-Argentina
0) |
 |
Photo
From: Foot Magazine, Issue 96, October 1989
(Carlos Dunga, July 12, 1989, Copa America,
Brazil 2-Argentina 0) |
Two
days later (July 14th), Uruguay and Argentina faced one another for
the second time, six days after their initial encounter.
By
now Uruguay were more confident, while Argentina were uninspiring as they were
throughout the Tournament.
In
the 37th minute, Uruguay took the lead through Ruben Sosa. He
intercepted Sensini’s poor backpass and dribbled past Pumpido.
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico, 3641, 1989
(July 14, 1989, Copa America, Uruguay
2-Argentina 0) |
In
the 81st minute, Sosa picked up a ball in midfield and raced towards
goal. Despite pressure from Batista, Sosa chipped the ball over Pumpido.
Maradona
did provide a moment of brilliance, when he chipped a ball from the middle of
the field that hit the crossbar. It would be his only noteworthy moment on the
field during the Copa.
Oscar
Ruggeri was sent off in the 64th minute. He earned the distinction
of being sent off in both of Argentina’s matches vs. Uruguay.
 |
Photo
From: El Grafico, 3641, 1989
(July 14, 1989, Copa America, Uruguay
2-Argentina 0) |
Uruguay’s
Hugo De Leon was surprised by Argentina’s violent play in both their matches.
He believed that if they had given half of the knocks that they received, half
of their squad would have been sent off.
On
the same day, Brazil once again met Paraguay days after defeating them (2-0) in
Recife.
A
rampant Brazilian side defeated the weaker Paraguayans with little difficulty.
In the 17th minute, Mazinho picked up Silas on right side. He
crossed for Bebeto who headed in the opener.
In
the 53rd minute, Valdo picked up a ball in center and laid it for
Bebeto on the edge of box. Bebeto scored from a shot from just inside the box.
In
the 59th minute, Mazinho crossed from right side for Romario to
score the third.
Lazaroni
surprisingly sent on Alemao to replace Valdo for a more defensive formation to
hold onto the lead. Many were surprised, as a fourth goal would have been more
beneficial for Brazil in terms of goal difference.
Bebeto
was one to voice concern over the fact that another goal was not scored to
force Uruguay on the offensive in their final match.
Romario
complemented his marker Delgado by calling him a ‘good horse’.
 |
Photo
From: Historia de la Copa America
(Bebeto celebrating, July 14, 1989, Copa
America, Brazil 3-Paraguay 0) |
 |
Photo
From: Placar, Issue 997, July 28, 1989
(Mauro Galvao, July 14, 1989, Copa America,
Brazil 3-Paraguay 0) |
Two
days later (July 16th), Argentina and Paraguay faced off to close
their respective Tournaments. The match was inconsequential as neither team had
any hopes beyond finishing third.
Maradona
preferred to skip this match and watched it from his Hotel room. Bilardo
experimented by fielding four new players: Balbo, Monzon, Hernan Diaz and
Giusti.
It
was yet another uneventful match that ended in a scoreless tie. Paraguay had
been slightly better though Argentina had a claim for a penalty kick after a
Mendoza handball in the box.
 |
Photo
From: Historia de la Copa America
(Gustavo Neffa, July 16, 1989, Copa America,
Argentina 0-Paraguay 0) |
Onto
the big match between Brazil and Uruguay that ironically took place 39 years to
the day of the 1950 World Cup ‘Final’, where Uruguay had dashed Brazil’s
dreams.
The
CBF had invited all survivors from 1950 for this match.
Lazaroni
were desperate to win in front of their fans to end a trophy drought of nearly
20 years not to mention a Copa America drought of 40 years.
Lazaroni
had chosen tactics to counter Uruguay’s counter attacking that had served them
well. The night before the match, he set up a special meeting with Mazinho,
Dunga and Branco in the team Hotel to discuss how to counter Uruguay’s tactics
and cut off supply to Sosa and Alzamendi.
 |
Photo
From: Historia de la Copa America
(Uruguay and Brazil squads, July 16, 1989, Copa
America, Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
The
match was a cautious affair between two strong sides. Brazil broke the deadlock
early in the second half. In the 49th minute, after a one-two with
Bebeto, Mazinho crossed from the right side for Romario who headed in the
winner.
 |
Photo
From: Triunfo Nª 163 17-07-1989
(Romario’s goal, July 16, 1989, Copa America,
Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
 |
Photo
From: Placar, Issue 997, July 28, 1989
(Romario, July 16, 1989, Copa America, Brazil
1-Uruguay 0) |
Brazil
held on and ended their trophy drought. Lazaroni’s tactics appeared to have
been vindicated. After the match, Lazaroni re-iterated his belief in a strong
defense by stating that he preferred to win (1-0) rather than lose (4-5).
In
the beginning of the Copa, there was constant speculation of his sacking and
replacement with Carlos Alberto Silva and/or Paulo Roberto Falcao. But now his
position was strengthened and he would remain in place until the World Cup.
 |
Photo
From: Historia de la Copa America
(Lazaroni with the Copa America, July 16, 1989,
Copa America, Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
Brazil
had grown in confidence as the Tournament had progressed and the squad appeared
to have adapted to Lazaroni’s defensive tactics. They had conceded only one
goal in the entire Tournament (in the very fisrt match vs. Venezuela). The team
could only get stronger with the re-integration of Jorginho, Muller, Mozer and
Careca.
Mazinho,
despite being Jorginho’s replacement, had been one of Brazil’s successes.
Lazaroni could call upon a backbone with the likes of Taffarel, Branco, Bebeto,
Romario, Dunga, etc.
 |
Photo
From: Historia de la Copa America
(Mazinho with the Copa America, July 16, 1989,
Copa America, Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
 |
Photo
From: Calcio 2000, Issue 21, July 1999
(Brazil captain Ricardo, July 16, 1989, Copa
America, Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
Bebeto’s
displays made him a transfer target; he was announced at Bayern Munich and
Olympique Marseille, among others. In the end he joined Vasco da Gama from
Flamengo.
His
Flamengo teammate Aldair joined Benfica.
 |
Photo
From: World Soccer, August 1989
(Valdo, July 16, 1989, Copa America, Brazil
1-Uruguay 0) |
 |
Photo
From: World Soccer, August 1989
(Valdo and Alemao, July 16, 1989, Copa America,
Brazil 1-Uruguay 0) |
Argentina
were criticized for being too robotic and defensive with too many players
flooding the midfield. However, Carlos Bilardo and FA President Julio Grondona
were defiant against such charges. Bilardo would often point out that since the
World Cup many teams had adopted his tactics.
He
felt by 1990 with adequate preparation time Argentina would be ready.
Maradona
had his mind elsewhere and Argentina’s fortunes paralleled his form, which
explained the disappointing displays.
The
Argentines blamed fatigue as well for their displays. They felt they had played
well in their first match vs. Chile but starting the second match vs. Ecuador,
they were already exhausted.
In
addition, Maradona, Burruchaga and Oscar Ruggeri were all coming back from
injuries.
Uruguay
had given a good account of themselves with an impressive Ruben Sosa. Most
observers felt that the best player at this Copa was either Bebeto or Sosa.
Colombia
had been a disappointment, but were clearly saving themselves for the World Cup
qualifiers for which they succeeded.
Ecuador
were the surprise of the Tournament. Holger Quinones, Fajrado, Aviles, Tenorio
and Cuvi stood out and the manager Dusan Draskovic’s work was praised.
Alex
Aguinaga became first ever Ecuadorian to transfer abroad by signing for
Mexico’s Club America.
Just
like the 1987 Edition, the organization was questioned by most involved.
Transportation
for Teams and Journalists was a significant point of criticism. A local flight
would normally be two hours late. The Peru delegation were stranded at the
airport for six hours when transferring from Salvador to Recife.
Peru
FA President Josue Grande declared it was inadmissible to wait so long in
airports,as well as the inadequate training facilities.
Paraguay
even at one point threatened to boycott the Final Round because of these
issues.
Many
managers such as Oscar Washington Tabarez and Carlos Bilardo complained of the
fatigue on players due to playing matches every two days.
The
Teams that made the Final Group played seven matches in a two-week period.
The
state of some of the pitches was also questioned. The field at Salvador
(Estádio da Fonte Nova) was so atrocious that Peru’s Julio Cesar Uribe declared
that he had he lost two years of his life in each match.
The
state of that pitch hampered the technical play of Brazil and Colombia.
At
Bahia, neither Official Teamsheets nor information on players were provided to
the Press.
The
stadium also did not have enough floodlights for matches at night.
This
is not to mention, the hostile reception of the home team at that venue to
protest the exclusion of local player Charles.
Branco
and Renato described the Bahia boycott as infantile and immature.
At
Goiânia, where Argentina were based, the stadium organizers charged an entrance
fee for the public to watch Maradona train. Upon hearing of this Maradona was
furious and said ‘it’s scandalous, they should be reimbursed’.
The
Grass at Goiânia’s venue (Estádio Serra Dourada) was also too high. Many
players claimed it was difficult to pass.
Telecommunications
was also a problem at Goiânia. It was nearly impossible to send information by
computer.
Many
of the Teams’ National Anthems were played poorly or not at all and Official
Team Photos prior to matches were poorly organized.
As
far as Maracana, the Press boxes had little visibility.
Perhaps
all these would explain why Brazil were not chosen to host the 1994 World Cup
that they were lobbying for.
As
far as doping control, it was decided two test two players from each side.
Strangely, their names were read out by microphone during the actual matches.
Some
of the testing came into question. In their first match vs. Ecuador, Uruguay’s
Pablo Bengoechea had 14 milligrams of caffeine in his system (double the
authorized). It turned out he had drank coffee for his urine test and that was
why there were traces of caffeine in his urine’. He was suspended for two years
but only for CONMEBOL competitions. He was eligible for the World Cup
qualifiers and his club Sevilla.
Paraguay’s
Gustavo Neffa tested positive for Ephedrine following their match vs.
Venezuela. It was thought to be due to an error by Paraguay Team Doctor. He had
prescribed medication for cold that contained ephedrine.
Many
Paraguayans felt this incident with Neffa was foul play by Brazilian
Authorities to hamper their chances.
There
was also another incident, when the bus to take the Paraguay squad training did
not arrive and the squad were forced to take seven taxis.
Some
of the players got lost and the training session was cancelled after twenty
minutes. Some felt this was another incident where the Brazilian authorities
intervened to damage Paraguay’s chances.
Neffa
did in the end benefit from this Tournament. Juventus acquired him and
immediately loaned him to Cremonese.
There
were also many instances thefts and
stolen money reported. A sum of 11, 750 US Dollars was stolen from the Bolivia
squad from their residence at Hotel Samanbaia.
Venezuela
Manager Carlos Moreno also disclosed that he was robbed of 1,800 US Dollars
while on a beach.
A
Uruguayan reporter was assaulted and his equipment valued at $10,000 was
stolen.
In
Rio, it was reported that taxi drivers overcharged journalists and fans for taking
them from their hotels to the Maracana and the Police was helpless and/or
unwilling to combat such extortion. The prices varied from $50 to $60.
At
Goiânia, the cost of using the telephone for the press was exorbitant. A Chilean journalist, Juan Carlos Ulloa, ran up a bill of
$2,000 for four 12-minute calls.
Despite
all the off-field issues, the standard of play was in general better than the
1987 Edition. More goals were scored in more matches and perhaps teams were
sharper since the World Cup qualifiers were on the horizon.
The
next Copa America was to take place in two yhears time at Chile in 1991.
Note:
1-Twenty
South American journalists voted for the best players in the First Round in
Group A, the results were:
Gustavo
Neffa (Paraguay) best player with 9 votes
Wilson
Perez (Colombia) 6
Carlos
Maldonando (Venezuela) 3
Branco,
Bebeto (both Brazil), Rene Higuita (Colombia) 1
2-According
to France Football
Best
playes in the Copa Amaerica:
Branco
(Brazil) 30 stars
Ruben
Sosa (Uruguay) 29
Mauro
Galvao (Brazil) 27
Bebeto
(Brazil), Javier Zeoli (Uruguay) 26
Gustavo
Neffa (Paraguay) 25
Ricardo
(Brazil), Claudio Taffarel (Brazil) 24
Jorge
Guasch (Paraguay), Santiago Ostolaza (Uruguay) 23
Valdo
(Brazil), Hugo de Leon, Jose Herrera (both Uruguay) 22
Sensini
(Argentina), Aldair, Carlos Dunga, Mazinho (all Brazil), Rogelio Delgado, Roberto
Fernandez, Julio
Cesar Franco (all Paraguay) 21
References:
Seleccao
Brasileira -90 Anos 1914-2004, Authors Antonio Carlos Napoleao, Roberto Assaf
Deporte
Total N 422 17-07-1989
Triunfo
Nª 163 17-07-1989
Triunfo
Nª 166 07-08-1989
El
Grafico Number 3639, 1989
El
Grafico Number 3640, 1989
El
Grafico Number 3641, 1989
Placar,
Issue 994, July 7, 1989
Placar,
Issue 997, July 29, 1989
Calcio
2000, Issue 21, July 1999
France
Football, Issue 2256, July 4, 1989
France
Football, Issue 2257, July 11, 1989
France
Football, Issue 2258, July 18, 1989
Onze-Mondial,
Issue 7, August 1989
World
Soccer, July 1989
Wordl
Soccer, August 1989
Historia
de la Copa America
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