This Day in History: 2023-01-27

Nr. 392

THE FLA-FLU SETS AN ATTENDANCE RECORD (1963)

The derby between Rio de Janeiro teams Flamengo and Fluminense is one of the most hotly contested in world football and is eagerly anticipated by both sets of supporters. Flamengo’s official home ground is the Gavea Stadium whilst Fluminense play at the Estádio das Laranjeiras. But the Fla-Flu always takes place at the famous Maracana. In December 1963, 177,020 spectators crammed into the grand old stadium – though some put the figure nearer to 190,000. Ironically the record crowd had little to shout about as they witnessed a nil-nil draw. The outright attendance record is also held by the Maracana – the defeat of Brazil by Uruguay in 1950 was played out in front of 199,854 – mostly shocked – Brazihans.

Fluminense of Rio de Janeiro arrive at Luton airport ahead of a match against West Ham at Upton Park – a long way from the Maracana.