2004 Copa do Brasil finals – Knowipedia – The Next Generation of Global Knowledge

**2004 Copa do Brasil Finals**

The 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals was the concluding two-legged football match that decided the champion of the 2004 edition of the Copa do Brasil, Brazil’s premier national knockout football competition. The finals were contested between Santo André, a relatively small club from São Paulo state, and Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most popular and successful football teams.

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## 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals

The 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals marked a significant moment in Brazilian football history, as it featured an underdog team, Santo André, facing off against the traditional powerhouse Flamengo. The two-legged final was held in July 2004 and showcased the drama and unpredictability of knockout football in Brazil. Santo André’s victory was considered one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history, as the club secured its first major national title by defeating Flamengo on aggregate.

### Background

The Copa do Brasil is an annual knockout football competition organized by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). Established in 1989, it provides clubs from all over Brazil the opportunity to compete for a national title and a spot in the prestigious Copa Libertadores, South America’s premier club tournament.

In 2004, the competition featured 64 teams from across the country. Flamengo, based in Rio de Janeiro, entered the tournament as one of the favorites due to their strong squad and historical success. Santo André, on the other hand, was a modest club from the São Paulo metropolitan area, competing in the lower divisions of Brazilian football at the time. Their journey to the final was unexpected and captured the imagination of football fans nationwide.

### Road to the Final

#### Santo André’s Path

Santo André’s campaign was marked by resilience and tactical discipline. They overcame several more established teams on their way to the final, including victories over Palmeiras, a major São Paulo club, and Atlético Paranaense. Their defensive solidity and effective counterattacks were key to their success throughout the tournament.

#### Flamengo’s Path

Flamengo’s route to the final was characterized by their attacking prowess and experience. They dispatched opponents such as Vasco da Gama and Cruzeiro, both traditional Brazilian football giants. Flamengo’s squad featured several notable players who were expected to lead the team to victory.

### The Finals

The finals were played over two legs, with each team hosting one match. The aggregate score over the two matches would determine the champion.

#### First Leg

– **Date:** July 1, 2004
– **Venue:** Estádio Bruno José Daniel, Santo André
– **Result:** Santo André 2–2 Flamengo

The first leg took place at Santo André’s home ground, Estádio Bruno José Daniel. The match was highly competitive, with both teams exchanging goals. Santo André took the lead twice, but Flamengo managed to equalize on both occasions. The 2–2 draw was seen as a positive result for Flamengo, given the away goals rule was in effect.

#### Second Leg

– **Date:** July 8, 2004
– **Venue:** Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro
– **Result:** Flamengo 2–3 Santo André

The second leg was held at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo’s home ground. The match was intense and dramatic. Flamengo scored twice, appearing to be in control of the game. However, Santo André mounted a remarkable comeback, scoring three goals to win the match 3–2. This victory secured the aggregate score at 5–4 in favor of Santo André.

### Key Players and Performances

– **Santo André:** The team’s success was built on collective effort, but several players stood out. Forward Adhemar was instrumental in attack, scoring crucial goals in the final. The defensive unit, led by captain Paulo Roberto, was vital in containing Flamengo’s offensive threats.

– **Flamengo:** Despite the loss, Flamengo’s attacking players, including striker Zinho and midfielder Petkovic, showed skill and creativity. However, defensive lapses in the second leg ultimately cost them the title.

### Significance and Legacy

Santo André’s triumph in the 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals is remembered as one of the greatest underdog stories in Brazilian football. The victory granted the club its first major national trophy and qualified them for the 2005 Copa Libertadores, marking their debut in South America’s premier club competition.

The upset highlighted the competitive nature of the Copa do Brasil, where smaller clubs have the opportunity to challenge and defeat traditional giants. It also underscored the importance of tactical discipline and team spirit in knockout football.

For Flamengo, the defeat was a disappointment but served as a reminder of the unpredictability of cup competitions. The 2004 final remains a significant chapter in the club’s history, illustrating the challenges even the most successful teams can face.

### Aftermath

Following their victory, Santo André experienced a surge in popularity and recognition. The club’s players and staff were celebrated for their achievement, and the win boosted the profile of smaller clubs in Brazilian football.

Flamengo regrouped and continued to compete at the highest levels domestically and internationally. The 2004 final loss motivated the club to strengthen its squad and pursue further titles in subsequent years.

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## Match Details

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## Summary

The 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals showcased the drama and excitement of Brazilian football’s knockout format. Santo André’s unexpected victory over Flamengo remains a landmark achievement, symbolizing the potential for smaller clubs to achieve greatness on the national stage. The two-legged final was marked by thrilling matches, memorable performances, and a historic upset that continues to be celebrated in Brazilian football lore.

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**Meta Description:**
The 2004 Copa do Brasil Finals featured an underdog victory as Santo André defeated Flamengo over two legs to claim their first national title in a historic upset.