Uruguay vs Chile: The Decisive Final at Estadio Monumental
The clash between Uruguay and Chile at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires was a high-stakes encounter defined by physical intensity and tactical discipline. In a match marked by aggressive play and early disciplinary actions, Uruguay managed to secure a narrow victory to claim the title.
Key Facts
- Final Score: Uruguay 1–0 Chile.
- Winning Goal: Scored by Pablo Bengoechea in the 56th minute.
- Venue: Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires.
- Referee: Romualdo Arpi Filho (Brazil).
- Red Cards: Eduardo Gómez (Chile) and Enzo Francescoli (Uruguay).
A Physical Battle in Buenos Aires
From the opening whistle, the match was characterized by a rough style of play from the Chilean side. Chile committed a high volume of fouls, frequently targeting Uruguay's star player, Enzo Francescoli. This aggressive approach led to an early turning point in the match when Brazilian referee Romualdo Arpi Filho sent off Chilean defender Eduardo Gómez before the 15-minute mark.
However, the tension remained high, and the disciplinary trend continued. Uruguay's Francescoli was also sent off after committing a foul against Chile's Fernando Astengo, leaving both teams to navigate the remainder of the final with depleted rosters.
Tactical Mastery and the Winning Goal
Despite the red cards, Uruguay maintained control through standout individual performances. Alfonso Domínguez played a pivotal role in the defense, successfully neutralizing Ivo Basay, Chile's most dangerous forward. In the center of the pitch, José Perdomo provided essential balance, operating effectively in both defensive and offensive transitions.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 56th minute when Pablo Bengoechea found the back of the net. This single goal proved to be the difference, as Uruguay held on to secure the victory.

Match Summary and Lineups
| Detail | Uruguay | Chile |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 1 | 0 |
| Goal Scorer | Bengoechea (56') | N/A |
| Manager | Roberto Fleitas | Orlando Aravena |
| Captain | José Perdomo | Roberto Rojas |
Uruguay Starting XI
- GK: Eduardo Pereira
- DF: Alfonso Domínguez, Nelson Gutiérrez, Obdulio Trasante, José Pintos Saldanha
- MF: Gustavo Matosas, José Perdomo (C), Pablo Bengoechea, Enzo Francescoli
- FW: Antonio Alzamendi, Rubén Sosa
Chile Starting XI
- GK: Roberto Rojas (C)
- DF: Óscar Reyes, Eduardo Gómez, Fernando Astengo, Luis Hormazábal
- MF: Patricio Mardones, Jorge Contreras, Héctor Puebla, Jaime Pizarro
- FW: Juan Carlos Letelier, Ivo Basay
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the winning goal in the match?
Pablo Bengoechea scored the only goal of the match in the 56th minute to give Uruguay a 1–0 victory.
Which players were sent off during the final?
Eduardo Gómez of Chile was sent off early in the match, and Enzo Francescoli of Uruguay was also dismissed after fouling Fernando Astengo.
Who was the referee for the encounter?
The match was officiated by Brazilian referee Romualdo Arpi Filho.
How did Uruguay manage Chile's attack?
Alfonso Domínguez was instrumental in the victory by controlling the movements of Ivo Basay, who was Chile's most notable forward.
Where was the match played?
The decisive match took place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.