Historical Records of the Copa do Brasil Up to 2025
The Copa do Brasil, officially named the Copa Betano do Brasil in 2025, is one of the most thrilling and democratic tournaments in Brazilian football. Since its inception in 1989, the competition, which features 92 clubs from all 26 states and the Federal District in its 37th edition, has produced unforgettable moments and remarkable records. From historic thrashings to legendary goal scorers, the historical records of the Copa do Brasil up to 2025 tell a story of resilience, talent, and passion for the game. In this article, we explore the tournament’s greatest achievements, with data updated through the third round of 2025 (May 21–22), alongside fascinating facts that have defined generations. To follow the matches, check out our complete Copa do Brasil 2025 schedule.
Why Is the Copa do Brasil a Breeding Ground for Records?
The Copa do Brasil’s knockout format, inspired by competitions like England’s FA Cup, creates a high-stakes environment where a single mistake can be fatal, and any feat can become legendary. Lower-division clubs, such as Retrô-PE and Ceilândia-DF, face giants like Flamengo and Palmeiras, generating upsets and unique records. The record-breaking prize money of over R$101 million for the 2025 champion, plus a spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores, incentivizes extraordinary performances. A new rule introducing penalty shootouts in the first round, implemented in 2025, has heightened competitiveness, as seen in Retrô-PE’s heroic 1–1 draw and penalty shootout win against Fortaleza on May 22. These factors make the Copa do Brasil a perfect stage for historical records.
The Greatest Records of the Copa do Brasil Up to 2025
Below, we list the most significant records of the Copa do Brasil, based on data from the CBF, websites like ge.globo.com, olympics.com, and specialized publications, updated through May 2025.
1. Most Titles: Cruzeiro with 6 Championships
Cruzeiro is the most successful club in Copa do Brasil history, with six titles (1993, 1996, 2000, 2003, 2017, 2018). The Raposa overcame opponents like Grêmio, Palmeiras, São Paulo, Flamengo, and Corinthians, with a standout performance in the 2003 Triple Crown (Minas Gerais State Championship, Copa do Brasil, and Brasileirão), led by Alex. Grêmio and Flamengo, each with five titles, follow closely. Flamengo, the 2024 champion after defeating Atlético-MG 4–1 on aggregate, tied Grêmio in 2025 but has yet to surpass Cruzeiro.
2. Top Scorer: Fred with 37 Goals
Fred, former striker for Fluminense and Cruzeiro, is the all-time leading scorer in the Copa do Brasil, with 37 goals in 56 matches. His single-edition record is also unmatched: 14 goals in 2005 for Cruzeiro, surpassing Deivid’s 13 goals for Corinthians in 2002. Romário, with 36 goals in 46 matches, ranks second, followed by players like Viola and Oséas. These figures highlight Fred’s ability to shine in high-stakes matches, particularly in derbies.
3. Biggest Win: Atlético-MG 11–0 Caiçara-PI
The largest victory in the tournament’s history occurred on February 28, 1991, when Atlético-MG defeated Caiçara-PI 11–0 at the Independência Stadium in Belo Horizonte. Striker Gerson scored five goals, a record for a single match. The score was so lopsided that the stadium’s scoreboard, limited to single digits per team, stopped updating at 9–0. Another notable thrashing was Internacional’s 15–1 aggregate win over Ji-Paraná-RO in 1993 (6–0 and 9–1).
4. Most Matches Played: Zinho and Carlos Miguel (71 Matches)
Zinho and Carlos Miguel share the record for the most Copa do Brasil appearances, with 71 matches each. Zinho, an icon for Flamengo and Palmeiras, and Carlos Miguel, who played for various clubs, demonstrated longevity and consistency in the tournament. This achievement underscores the importance of versatile players in knockout competitions.
5. Undefeated Champions: Six Teams
Six teams have won the Copa do Brasil without a single loss: Grêmio (1989, 1994, 1997), Cruzeiro (2000, 2003), Corinthians (1995), Criciúma (1991), Flamengo (1990), and Palmeiras (2012). These campaigns highlight the tactical and mental strength required to conquer the tournament, especially in two-legged ties against top-tier opponents.
6. First Goal: Alcindo Sartori (1989)
The first goal in Copa do Brasil history was scored by Alcindo Sartori of Flamengo on July 19, 1989, in a 2–0 victory over Paysandu. This inaugural moment at the Curuzu Stadium paved the way for over three decades of tournament milestones.
7. Biggest Comeback: América-RN 5–2 Fluminense (2014)
In 2014, América-RN staged the greatest comeback in tournament history. After losing 3–0 at home to Fluminense, the Natal-based team won 5–2 at the Maracanã, advancing on away goals. Led by players like Max and Adriano Pardal, this feat remains a hallmark of the Copa do Brasil’s underdog spirit.
8. Highest Attendance and Revenue: Copa do Brasil 2023
The 2023 edition, won by São Paulo, set records for attendance and revenue. Nearly 2 million paying spectators attended 122 matches, surpassing the 1.69 million of 2022. Gross revenue exceeded R$160 million, with R$50 million from the finals between São Paulo and Flamengo. These figures reflect the tournament’s growing appeal, which continued in 2025 with packed stadiums, such as for Palmeiras’ 3–0 win over Ceará on May 22.
9. Player with Most Titles: Roger Machado (4 Titles)
Roger Machado is the individual with the most Copa do Brasil titles, winning four: three with Grêmio (1994, 1997, 2001) and one with Fluminense (2007). His versatility as a left-back and leadership on the pitch cemented his legacy in the tournament.
10. Coach with Most Titles: Luiz Felipe Scolari (4 Titles)
Luiz Felipe Scolari, known as Felipão, is the most successful coach in Copa do Brasil history, with four titles: Criciúma (1991), Grêmio (1994), Palmeiras (1998), and Cruzeiro (2000). His ability to motivate teams in decisive matches was key to these records.
Context of the Copa do Brasil 2025
The 37th edition, which began on February 18, 2025, has added new chapters to the record books. The third round (May 21–22) featured standout moments, such as Bahia’s 4–0 rout of Paysandu and CSA’s upset over Grêmio, cementing Alagoas as a powerhouse with both CRB and CSA reaching the round of 16. The new first-round penalty shootout rule, removing the tie advantage for higher-ranked teams, has already produced historic results, like Ceilândia-DF’s penalty shootout win over Coritiba. These developments suggest that new records may emerge by the final, scheduled for November 9, 2025.
Table of Third-Round Highlights (May 22, 2025)
| Match | Date | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortaleza-CE vs. Retrô-PE | 05/22/2025 | 7:00 PM | 1–1 (Retrô advances on penalties) |
| Aparecidense-GO vs. Fluminense-RJ | 05/22/2025 | 7:30 PM | 1–4 |
| Bahia-BA vs. Paysandu-PA | 05/22/2025 | 7:30 PM | 4–0 |
| Palmeiras-SP vs. Ceará-CE | 05/22/2025 | 8:00 PM | 3–0 |
| Maringá-PR vs. Atlético-MG | 05/22/2025 | 8:00 PM | 0–2 |
Source: CBF data up to May 22, 2025.
Cultural Impact of the Records
The Copa do Brasil’s records transcend numbers, shaping Brazilian football’s identity. Atlético-MG’s 1991 thrashing inspired generations of Mineiro fans, while Fred’s 37 goals cement his legend at Fluminense and Cruzeiro. Sport’s 2008 title, the first for a Northeastern club, broke regional barriers, highlighting the Northeast’s strength. Amplified by broadcasts on Globo and SporTV, these achievements create collective memories that unite fans across regions.
What to Expect for the Rest of 2025?
With the round of 16 scheduled for July 29–31 and August 5–7, the Copa do Brasil 2025 promises new records. Will Fred’s goal-scoring record be challenged? Could a new club join the list of undefeated champions? Or will an underdog like Retrô-PE set a new milestone? Follow the upcoming matches in our round of 16 schedule.
How to Follow the Copa do Brasil 2025
To stay updated on every record:
- Visit the official CBF website for statistics.
- Watch matches on Globo, SporTV, or Premiere.
- Check our Copa do Brasil 2025 schedule.
- Read about underdogs in Underdogs of the Copa do Brasil 2025.
Join the Fanbase!
The historical records of the Copa do Brasil up to 2025 prove that the tournament is a cornerstone of Brazilian football. From Fred to Cruzeiro, these milestones tell stories of passion and triumph. Bookmark this page to track new records, share on social media, and leave your predictions in the comments: what will be the next great achievement in the Copa do Brasil? Embrace the thrill of the knockout stage!
