RIO DE JANEIRO
Brazil’s day has finally arrived.
The sun rose today on a tropical nation hosting its first World Cup in 64 years. Nearly half the world’s population, well over 3 billion spectators, is expected to watch soccer’s premier event and get a glimpse of the country that in two years will host the Summer Olympics.
But just hours before play begins, it still isn’t clear which Brazil we’ll see.
Will it be the irreverent nation known for its festive, freewheeling spirit? Or the country that for the past year has been a hotbed of fury over poor public services, discontent over a political system widely viewed as corrupt, and deep anger over the $11.5 billion spent on hosting the World Cup?
Perhaps, it will be both.
Soccer will take the spotlight when play begins with Brazil and Croatia meeting in Sao Paulo today. Brazilians are hungry to see their soccer juggernaut deliver a record sixth World Cup crown.
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