In football history, one question often asked is: when did Peru win the Copa América? It’s a proud but rare moment in Peru’s footballing lore—Peru has won the tournament twice: first in 1939, then again in 1975. These are the only two editions where the Blanquirroja lifted South America’s oldest international trophy.
Below, ManoKick will take you on a journey through those victories, the context behind them, key players, and what those wins meant for Peruvian football.
Peru’s Copa América Victories
1939 – The First Triumph
- Peru hosted the tournament in 1939. They played a round-robin format with fewer teams than later editions. Some of the usual heavyweights (including Brazil and Argentina) were absent or did not participate fully.
- Peru won all its matches: defeating Ecuador, Chile, Paraguay, and finally Uruguay to clinch the title.
- Teodoro Fernández starred, being top scorer of the tournament. edia)
- The win marked Peru’s first major international trophy.
1975 – The Second Title
- After 36 years, Peru won their second Copa América in 1975. This edition marked a change in format: it was played over several months, with home-and-away matches, group stage, knockout rounds, and the final. All ten CONMEBOL teams participated.
- In the semifinals, Peru defeated Brazil over two legs. Then in the final versus Colombia: they lost the first leg 1–0 in Bogotá, won the second 2–0 in Lima, and eventually won a decisive playoff match in Caracas 1–0 (with Hugo Sotil scoring) to clinch the title.
Key Players & Moments
- Teodoro “Lolo” Fernández in 1939: The forward was essential—both as a goal scorer and leader. His performance helped set the foundation of Peru’s identity in international competition.
- Hugo Sotil, Teófilo Cubillas, and Enrique Casaretto among others in 1975: these players came through when it mattered, balancing flair, tactical awareness, and fighting spirit. The goal in the playoff by Sotil is still legendary.
Why These Wins Matter
- They bookend Peru’s golden eras: 1939 showcased a growing nation in South American football; 1975 demonstrated Peru could beat the giants in a full-competition format.
- Peru is one of only a few nations to have won the Copa América, joining Uruguay, Argentina, and Brazil in that elite club.
- Since 1975, Peru has come close (finals, runners-up) but has not won again.
Other Copa América Facts About Peru
- First appearance in Copa América: 1927.
- Number of wins: 2 (1939, 1975).
- Best performances since 1975: many strong campaigns, including reaching the final in 2019.
Comparison With Other Nations
- Countries like Uruguay and Argentina have won many more Copa Américas. That makes Peru’s two titles significant but rare in the modern competitive landscape.
- The long gap (36 years) between their first and second win, and the even longer drought since, underscore how difficult winning this tournament is, especially with Brazil and Argentina dominating.
Conclusion
When did Peru win the Copa América? The answer: 1939 and 1975 are the two historic occasions. These wins are central to Peru’s football identity—first as newcomers finding their feet, then as underdogs overcoming giants.
If you’re curious to dig deeper, ManoKick can help you explore match-by-match breakdowns of those tournaments, player biographies, or how Peru’s team has evolved since then. Want to see who scored in every Copa América Peru played, or their near-misses? Just say the word.
