#1 Brazil – 1950 FIFA World Cup
The 1950 FIFA World Cup was a strange one. Hosted by Brazil, this edition of the tournament was peculiar in many ways, not least of which was the unusual group format instead of the conventional knockout rounds. It was also a time when the hosts were riding high with their spectacular football and were the favourites to lift the trophy.
But their seemingly unparalleled popularity and ability came with its own drawbacks. Cocksure and arrogant, the Sambas needed just a draw against Uruguay to become champions.
As 175,000 people and more watched with bated breath expecting their heroes to claim their spot in the limelight, one of the biggest chokes to ever take place in the history of the World Cup took place. After taking the lead, Uruguay came back to beat the favourites 2-1 thereby winning the World Cup that year.
To put the upset in perspective, there were reports of numerous Brazilians who committed suicide, including a local journalist.
