The 1979 edition of the Copa América association football tournament was played between 18 July and 12 December.

It was not held in a particular country, all matches were played on a home and away basis.

Peru qualified automatically as holders for the semifinal.

As the teams were tied 2–2 on points, a play-off on a neutral ground was required to determine the winner.

With four goals, Jorge Peredo and Eugenio Morel are the top scorer in the tournament.