It was played by 64 teams, either qualified through their respected state championships (54) or by the CBF Rankings (10).
The tournament was played in two-legged knockout stages.
The away goals rule was used in the Copa do Brasil, which is an unusual feature when compared to other South American competitions.
Copa do Brasil is an opportunity for teams from smaller states to play against the big teams and episodes of giant-killing have happened at a regular rate throughout the competition history.
The winner automatically qualifies for the next year's Copa Libertadores, which prevents a team from winning the Copa do Brasil twice in a row.