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Fifa issues staunch defence of 2014 World Cup organisation
Jun 10, 2014 9:30:00 PM
World football's governing body has released a nine-point, three-page document addressing issues such as tournament funding, tax exemptions and ticket pricing
By Liam Twomey in Rio de Janeiro
Fifa has released a statement entitled "setting the record straight" in a bid to fend off persistent criticism relating to the organisation and funding of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
In the three-page document, presented in the form of a Q&A, world football's governing body forcefully denies accusations of letting the host country foot the entire bill for the tournament and of making excessive demands, such as comprehensive tax exemption for its sponsors and the construction of 12 expensive stadiums.
The spiralling costs incurred by Brazil as a result of hosting the 2014 World Cup sparked violent unrest throughout the country at last summer's Confederations Cup and significant protests against the government and Fifa since.
On the issue of World Cup funding, the statement insisted: "Fifa has covered the entire operational costs of the World Cup to the tune of around $2 billion USD. We don’t take any public money for this, and instead we only use the money generated by the sale of World Cup TV and marketing rights.
"In terms of the host country’s investments, the figures quoted often include investments in infrastructure that are not directly linked to the cost of the World Cup and some have not even been made for the World Cup."
Addressing the accusation that Fifa demanded that Brazil construct 12 expensive stadiums for the tournament, the statement read: "Fifa neither demands that a country has to build 12 stadiums, nor how they are to be designed.
"There are some basic guidelines to follow so that the stadiums meet the requirements and expectations of the teams, security officers and the media, but first of all, each Host Country has to decide whether it wishes to use eight, ten or 12 stadiums. Brazil opted for 12.
"Each host country also has to design their stadiums in such a way that allows them to be used in a sustainable manner over the longer term."
In the statement, Fifa also denies insisting on a full tax exemption for tournament sponsors. "Fifa only requires an easing of customs procedures for some materials that need to be imported for the organisation of the World Cup and that are not on sale in the host country ... All of these exemptions are comparable in scope to those requested by organisers of other sporting or cultural events."
The nine-point document also addresses the issues of ticket pricing, forced evictions and sponsor exclusivity, as well as the social, economic and ecological impact of the tournament.
Fifa has come under renewed pressure in the build-up to this summer's World Cup following the publication of allegations in the Sunday Times suggesting impropriety in Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 World Cup.
President Sepp Blatter's assertion that the British media's coverage of the story was "racist" has stirred further controversy, and on Tuesday several high-ranking members of Uefa called on the 78-year-old to stand down.
No European side will win World Cup 2014, claims Hitzfeld
By Peter Hanson
Jun 11, 2014 3:26:00 PM
All four previous South American World Cup have been won by teams from the home continent and the Switzerland boss believes that will not change in 2014
Switzerland coach Ottmar Hitzfeld believes that it will be difficult for European teams to triumph at the World Cup in Brazil.
Football's marquee tournament has been hosted by a South American country on four previous occasions and each time a nation from that region has gone on to win the trophy.
This year's World Cup begins in Brazil on Thursday and Hitzfeld believes it will be tricky for European nations to go all the way.
"(It is) very, very difficult (for a European team to win)," he told laureus.com.
"It cannot be a coincidence that a European team couldn't win a World Cup held in South America.
"Not in Uruguay, not in Mexico, not in Argentina and for sure not in Brazil."
With Brazil hosting the World Cup for the first time since 1950, the pressure to deliver success on home soil has arguably never been higher.
But Hitzfeld feels that Luiz Felipe Scolari's men can cope with the expectation and pointed to Brazil's triumph at last year's Confederations Cup as an indicator of how well they can do.
He added: "There is always pressure in football.
"The expectations may be a bit more noticeable at a home World Cup. But Brazil has shown at the Confederations Cup a year ago how you deal well with these special conditions."
Switzerland are in Group E alongside Ecuador, France and Honduras.
Deschamps: 2010 French revolution part of our history
By Rupert Fryer
Jun 11, 2014 4:11:00 PM
The Bleus boss admits that the controversy of South Africa four years ago cannot be forgotten but insists his side must look to a more harmonious future in Brazil
France coach Didier Deschamps says there is no escaping the revolt that took place in South Africa four years ago.
Les Bleus collapsed in 2010 after Nicolas Anelka was sent home following a row with then coach Raymond Domenech, before Patrice Evra led a rebellion that saw the squad refuse to leave the team bus for training.
But while Deschamps says the episode is part of the nation’s history that can never be forgotten, he believes it is time put the past behind them.
"No one will ever be able to blot out what happened in 2010," he said.
"That's going to be part of our history, but we have to stop looking at the past. Most important now is to have a unified spirit and a winning mentality.
“We’ll have spent several weeks together between the start of our preparations and the end of the [World Cup 2014]. The squad dynamic and the mentality of the players will be essential.”
Samir Nasri was left our of the squad by the 45-year-old, who believes the Manchester City midfielder to be a divisive presence in the squad.
Deschamps went on to say the current squad can take strength from their qualification play-off against Ukraine, in which they overcame a 2-0 first-leg deficit to roar to a 3-0 victory at home and book their place in Brazil.
“We made a mess of the game [in Ukraine] but we were able to turn it all around at home.
“Ultimately, it’s a huge satisfaction to have reached our goal and to have shared such powerful emotions with our supporters.
“When things are tough, French athletes tend to pull out great performances.”
France open their World Cup campaign on Sunday against Honduras before completing their Group E schedule with matches against Switzerland and Ecuador.
The striker suffered a torn thigh muscle in the friendly win over South Korea and is a doubt for the World Cup opener against USA on Monday
Scans have revealed that Ghana striker Abdul Majeed Waris has a torn quadricep and faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup.
The injury was at first thought to be relatively minor, incurred during the fourth minute of Monday's 4-0 friendly victory over South Korea.
"He had a knock on his left thigh," said team doctor Baba Adam.
"We initially tried to see if he could go back to play but we realised it was an injury that needed to be taken care of and managed well.
"We did an MRI on the quadriceps and what we realised is that, there was a tear.
"We hope to get him on to the field again pretty soon. However, we are still monitoring him to the deadline when we will give our final statement on his state of affairs."
Waris' absence would be a huge blow after the diminutive attacker played an integral part in Ghana's qualification for Brazil, during which he scored three goals.
"The Fifa deadline is (June) 15, so we will monitor until that day and see how things turn up," said Adam before adding that Waris is improving and "can now bend his knee with little pain."
Ghana begin their World Cup campaign against the United States on Monday before meeting Germany on June 21 and Portugal on June 26.
The Roma star says his side possess the quality to challenge anyone on the biggest stage as they prepare for their World Cup opener on Sunday
Miralem Pjanic has insisted Bosnia-Herzegovina have no fear of Argentina ahead of their World Cup clash on Sunday.
Safet Susic's side go up against the South American giants in their opening match of Group F at the nation's first ever World Cup.
And despite the prospect of facing the likes of Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero, playmaker Pjanic is confident that his country can give Argentina a run for their money.
"We will be against one of the favourites in Argentina, but we have the expertise to challenge them," he told Sky Sport 24 .
"We do not fear anyone because we believe in our chances.
"Many of us have played in big European tournaments and know how to deal with certain situations.
"Progressing from the group is our goal. Brazil is beautiful, we are realising how fascinating this country is."
Bosnia-Herzegovina will be making their first ever World Cup finals appearance and follow up their Group F opener with Argentina with matches against Nigeria and Iran.
Jones feared for World Cup place after shoulder injury
By Ryan Benson
Jun 11, 2014 5:49:00 PM
The England defender took a heavy knock during Manchester United's 3-1 win over Hull in May but was included in Roy Hodgson's squad and is set to play in Brazil
England defender Phil Jones has revealed that he feared for his World Cup prospects after injuring a shoulder at the end of last season.
The 22-year-old sustained the injury in Manchester United's 3-1 win over Hull City last month, and it was initially feared he could be ruled out of the Brazilian showpiece.
However, England boss Roy Hodgson included Jones in his 23-man squad and he played in the pre-tournament friendly against Ecuador last week.
And the former Blackburn Rovers man has revealed he breathed a huge sigh of relief when he realised the injury was not going to prevent him from travelling to Brazil.
"Once I did it (injured his shoulder) I thought I might not have a chance, but thankfully it healed quickly and I'm feeling fit, ready and I'm so looking forward to it," Jones told the FA's official website.
"(The World Cup) was the first thing that came into my mind when I did it.
"I remember getting the scan sitting there thinking 'it might knock my chance'. But, thankfully it's healed nicely and I'm able to be a part of what's going to hopefully be a successful tournament."
Jones partnered club-mate Chris Smalling at the heart of England's defence in the 2-2 draw with Ecuador, and he was thrilled to get back on the pitch after a month out.
"It was nice to get a start, it was a great game, competitive, it was what we wanted and it was great getting 90 minutes under my belt," he added.
"It's been great, the lads were all really keen and excited to get out here and now we're here there's a real belief and buzz about the place.
"It's building up to the first crucial game of the tournament. There has been an awful lot of work that has gone in behind the scenes which most people don't see.
"Everyone is committed, we're in a tight group and everyone's pulling in the right direction for a successful campaign over here."
First Sao Paulo, now Natal - another World Cup stadium is struggling to be ready for kick-off
By Vanessa Rodrigues
Jun 11, 2014 6:40:00 PM
The Arena das Dunas site has not passed a safety inspection and is not yet in position to host Friday's opening game between Mexico and Cameroon
Brazil’s overdue and over-budget World Cup 2014 preparations have been plunged into further chaos following news that the Arena das Dunas in Natal may not be ready for its opening match of the tournament.
Mexico are due to face Cameroon on Friday in what is scheduled to be the first match held at the stadium.
While Secopa (Extraordinary Secretary for World Cup Related Subjects) has guaranteed that the stadium is all but finished, the fire department responsible for signing the order of release for the use of the site disagree.
According to firefighters, there should have been a safety inspection of the site on Tuesday, but they were not authorised to make their visit, meaning that the stadium is yet to be cleared to host matches.
The Arena de Sao Paulo, the stadium scheduled to host the opening game of the tournament between Brazil and Croatia on Thursday, faced similar issues.
The Sao Paulo firefighters department refused to sign off on its temporary seating, which led to Fifa recalling a number of sold tickets.
Fans that acquired seats in that part of the stadium were forced to exchange their purchased seats for those situated in other areas of the stadium, causing the capacity to fall from around 68,000 to little over 60,000.
The Bayern Munich shot stopper has been struggling with a shoulder injury but the goalkeeper coach insists he is fully fit to feature on Monday
Manuel Neuer will be fit for Germany's World Cup opener with Portugal, according to goalkeeper coach Andreas Kopke.
The Bayern Munich keeper has been struggling with a shoulder injury in recent weeks, but Kopke has allayed any fears that he will miss their Group G fixture on Monday, June 16.
"Manuel's going to train fully today so that he can get a feel for his shoulder," Kopke said.
"Things are going in the right direction for him. Manuel is experienced enough and we're constantly discussing how his shoulder feels.
"It's not the case that he doesn't have faith in it. Manuel is fully fit."
Neuer's understudy Roman Weidenfeller played in Germany's last two warm-up games - a 2-2 draw with Cameron and a 6-1 thrashing of Armenia - and Kopke insists there is no problem between the two keepers as they battle it out for the number one jersey.
"You've got to have a great team spirit," he said. "Roman has said himself that there is no point in arguing about who should be number one.
"He would be ready to play at any time, but he knows the overall situation. The players are pushing each other to greater things with their performances."
Scolari: Current Brazil side as good as Ronaldo's 2002 champions
Jun 11, 2014 8:35:00 PM
Host nation are well placed to repeat their success in South Korea and Japan, according to their coach, who oversaw the talents of Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo at that event
By Kris Voakes at the Arena Corinthians, Sao Paulo
Luiz Felipe Scolari says that his Brazil squad are “collectively the same” as the team he led to World Cup victory in 2002.
Speaking at the Arena Corinthians, where Brazil will kick-off the 2014 showpiece on Thursday against Croatia, the Selecao coach told the world’s media that his current crop can emulate the Ronaldo-inspired success of 12 years ago.
“I would say that this squad and the 2002 squad are collectively the same,” said Scolari. “There was an ability in that squad which helped to change games tactically.
“This squad has players that change their games to help the team. For instance, Neymar helps to mark players if it helps the whole team."
‘Big Phil’ added that he feels his troops are ready to fulfil the dreams of the entire host nation.
"We want to thank president Dilma Rousseff for her words of support and also the fans from across the country who are backing us.
“The time has arrived, we are going together. This is our World Cup.”
Scolari has been hit by the deaths of his brother-in-law and nephew in the build-up to the finals beginning, but he says that football has helped him to move forward as the World Cup approaches.
“Yes, we have gone through difficult times together, but life goes on,” he added. “We do what we have to do and we go on. Each of us has a path to follow.
“I find my strength from working with these players who dedicate themselves every day and are always trying to improve. All this helps us forget the sadness and see the beauty of what is happening around you.”
Niko Kovac’s Croatia side are likely to give Brazil a tough test in their opening Group A fixture, and Scolari insists that he is focused entirely on the events of Thursday night.
“I'm thinking only of tomorrow, because we have seven steps to take and we cannot jump the first of those steps.
“We have prepared well, we are all fit to play, and everything that was planned was excellent… I will sleep well tonight.”
Beating Brazil in the final would be like an orgasm, says Maradona
By Ryan Benson
Jun 11, 2014 9:40:00 PM
The 53-year-old says he would love to see his country beat their South American rivals in the final and told Pele to go 'back to the museum'
Argentina legend Diego Maradona claims that beating hosts and bitter rivals Brazil in the World Cup final would be "like an orgasm".
Maradona, who famously helped guide his country to World Cup glory in 1986, believes Alejandro Sabella's men should be aiming to at least reach the final at Maracana on July 13.
Both Argentina and Brazil are among the tournament favourites, but Sabella's side will first have to escape Group F, which also contains debutants Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iran and Nigeria.
If Argentina were to reach the final and subsequently pip five-time world champions Brazil to the title, Maradona has no doubts that it would be the perfect victory.
The 53-year-old told Diario Ole: "Hopefully they can do it [reach the final]. The target will be to reach that point.
"There, Argentina can open up against Brazil, who will surely be in the final. To beat Brazil in the final would be like an orgasm."
The former Barcelona and Napoli star also continued his long-standing feud with Brazil legend Pele before dismissing comparisons between Neymar and Lionel Messi.
"How have I been received in Brazil? Better than Pele, although that is not saying much," he continued.
"You can tell Pele to go back to the museum. It's clear that the distance between Messi and Neymar is the same between Maradona and Pele.
"Neymar is today's Pele. In Brazil he is bigger, everyone is looking to him as the great figure of Brazilian football."
Maradona also believes Messi will be able to hit his best form for Argentina this year, something he hasn't done at a major international tournament as of yet.
"If an individual inspires the team with his brilliance, it helps immensely," he wrote in Times of India. "That is why I believe the presence of Messi and Ronaldo will help Argentina and Portugal play better.
"These two are the best of this generation and both are yet to play at the best of their abilities in the biggest tournament."
England can't handle World Cup pressure, says Vialli
By Ryan Benson
Jun 11, 2014 10:05:00 PM
The former Chelsea player and manager feels that the Three Lions have a habit of crumbling at major tournaments, though he acknowledges that they could pose Italy problems
Gianluca Vialli believes Italy will handle the pressure of the World Cup better than Group D rivals England.
The 49-year-old, who was at Chelsea for four years before later managing Watford, thinks that players who do well in the Premier League find it hard to cope with the expectation at major international tournaments.
With the Azzurri first up for the Three Lions in Manaus on Saturday, Vialli is confident that his nation will be in better shape, claiming that they "eat pressure for breakfast".
He told Perform: "I think it's quite funny with England because, for about four years, all the England fans and the England players feel a bit depressed and disillusioned when it comes to the England side and then, one month before the World Cup starts, everybody sort of starts feeling that they [will] naturally win it and everybody feels super-confident.
"I think that England fans should try to find a balance in between both state of minds but I think the England players find it quite difficult when they play in the World Cup because they are not used to the pressure.
"When they play in the Premiership, when they play Manchester United versus Chelsea, for example, or Arsenal, there's no pressure; it's actually quite fun to play.
"You know that there are no consequences if you don't do well, as long as you do your best on the pitch, and therefore, when they play for the national team, when they wear the England shirt, all of a sudden they realise they are representing their country. They feel there is a massive expectation, there's a lot of scrutiny and a lot of consequences.
"It's the inability to handle the pressure that makes a big difference between between the Italian players and the England players when it comes to the World Cup stage.
"The Italian players, they eat pressure for breakfast so they grow up with a lot of pressure and they know how to handle it.
"Also [Italy] are very good at winning games even though we are not playing at our best, which is something that England players need to learn quite fast if they want to succeed in the World Cup because there will be one or two games where you will not be performing so you need to be able to win it anyway. Historically we are very good at that."
Although Vialli is not convinced by England's ability to perform under intense pressure, he acknowledges that they are more than capable of posing a threat on Saturday.
"I think England are a very exciting side because they have got so many young, talented, creative players playing up front," he added.
"The likes of [Daniel] Sturridge, [Wayne] Rooney, and [Raheem] Sterling, [Adam] Lallana, [Danny] Welbeck, they can turn hot quickly and can create problems for the opposition.
"They need to be a bit more clinical, though, because there won't be many goalscoring opportunities so they need to take their chances when they can."
Van Persie, Robben & Sneijder are a real threat, admits Martinez
By Peter McVitie
Jun 12, 2014 12:20:00 AM
The Spain international admits his side have to be wary of the Dutch trio and says they are desperate to win their opening game of the tournament
Spain midfielder Javi Martinez has highlighted Netherlands attackers Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder as a real threat to his side's chances in their World Cup opener on Friday.
The two teams meet in a replay of the 2010 final, in which an Andres Iniesta goal in extra time clinched the trophy for the Spaniards after Arjen Robben had missed a glorious opportunity on the hour mark.
And Martinez believes the reigning European and world champions will have to be wary of his Bayern team-mate along with Van Persie and Sneijder in the re-match.
"Their biggest threat are their front three, who are all world class," he told reporters. "Robben is excellent at drifting into space and we will have to watch out for that."
The 25-year-old says he has spoken to Robben about that missed chance four years ago.
Martinez continued: "We have talked about it in the past couple of years. It was a bitter blow for Holland and him personally.
"We've spoken about that match and the one-on-ones against Iker a fair few times. Before the 2013 Champions League final I told him not to blow his opportunity to make amends and he didn't."
Martinez believes there is extra pressure on Spain to win their opening game in such a tight group which also consists of Chile and Australia.
"After losing our first game last time round, the onus is on us not to do the same thing again," he said.
"We showed that it isn't the be-all and end-all in South Africa, but getting off to a good start gives you extra confidence, even though we ended up as champions four years ago."
The former Athletic Bilbao player also reflected on last year's Confederations Cup defeat to Brazil, the tournament hosts who are rated as favourites to win this year's tournament.
"Brazil were more aggressive than us," conceded Martinez.
"We were outclassed and it was a wake-up call. If we're not up for every match, anyone can beat us."
The Argentina attacker was met by a pitch invader he momentarily took for his former Barcelona team-mate in the Albiceleste's training session on Wednesday
By Ben Hayward in Belo Horizonte
Lionel Messi was taken by surprise during Argentina's training session on Wednesday by a pitch invader he briefly mistook for his former Barcelona team-mate and friend Ronaldinho.
Argentina trained in front of thousands of fans and press at Belo Horizonte's Estadio Independencia, where Ronaldinho regularly turns out for Atletico Mineiro.
After some light running, the Albiceleste squad were divided into small groups for games of football-tennis in a low-key session which finished amid chaos as over a dozen supporters climbed over the fences to invade the pitch and ran in search of a handshake or a hug from their heroes.
Most headed in Messi's direction and security guards were overwhelmed in their attempts to halt the fans as the practice was quickly brought to an abrupt end.
But the Argentine was initially fooled by the Ronaldinho double.
Robinson Oliveira, who works as a professional lookalike of the Brazilian forward, told Goal: "When he saw me he was shocked because he thought I was the real Ronaldinho and he told me that I didn't need to run on the pitch to see him.
"He said: 'What are you doing running on here to see me?' When he held my hand, I went down on my knees [and bowed]. It was so emotional."
He added: "I didn't plan this. I just thought to myself that I have to hold his hand because this is the only opportunity I will have to see him."
The lookalike, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the former Barca hero, ended up with a bloodied hand after scaling the fence in his adventure to meet Messi, but said: "It was worth it."
Asked which of the two players he prefers, he replied: "Ronaldinho, of course!"
Argentina and Messi kick off their World Cup campaign against Bosnia at the Maracana on Sunday.
Why Scolari is the perfect man to lead Brazil to the World Cup
Jun 12, 2014 8:24:00 AM
COMMENT: The extraordinarily popular Selecao coach won the tournament with his country in 2002 and has proven that he is the right man to carry the hosts to victory this summer
By Julian Bennetts in Sao Paulo
Late evening in downtown Sao Paulo and just off Avenida Reboucas a market stall is doing a roaring trade.
Men cluster round, hoping for a piece of the action - and it is only when you look closely you realise they are selling stick-on moustaches, or rather Felipao moustaches.
In modern day Brazil it's not just enough to admire the national team coach, the general public want to look like him too.
His popularity is extraordinary - entirely at odds with the vast majority of his predecessors. It always seems a Brazilian coach is only keeping the hotseat warm but Luiz Felipe Scolari is entirely at ease with himself and his role.
“Am I nervous? I sleep very well,” laughed Scolari as he spoke to the press ahead of Brazil's World Cup opener against Croatia on Thursday.
“I don't know if I do other things well but I certainly sleep well. I will sleep very well tonight.”
One Brazilian journalist I speak to sums him up rather well. Scolari is, he says, a grandfather, a father, an uncle and a friend – it just depends which hat he wants to put on when he is speaking to you.
Certainly the affection the Brazilian squad has for him has been made clear on two occasions this week. Firstly, by the touching way in which David Luiz, Oscar and Fred embraced their coach as he walked onto the training pitch following the news that his nephew had been killed in a car crash.
Secondly, in the way in which he and Neymar high-fived and joked during their press conference. It is a style that Sir Alex Ferguson, say, would not countenance but it is one that is proving rather effective.
There are myriad stories of how Scolari works his charm. He can be a disciplinarian but he understands his players, having been one himself.
An example: during the 2002 World Cup he wanted to bring the best out of Ronaldo, so instructed his midfielders not to fizz through-balls in front of him to run on to but to play them slowly into his feet. As he did so he said – loudly enough for Ronaldo to hear - to 'take it easy on him, he's slow.'
Ronaldo grew angry, worked harder and scored eight goals as Brazil won the tournament.
Yet what is incongruous about Scolari's career is his utter failure at Chelsea. His reign at Stamford Bridge lasted less than eight months amid rumours of dissent from the players, in stark contrast to his success elsewhere.
The Brazilian media still do not fully understand what happened, and Scolari has made it clear he has moved on.
What is unquestionable is that the Brazilian players love him, in part because he sticks by them.
He has his team, his players and he remains utterly loyal to them, with that reciprocated in turn.
There were just seven changes between his Confederations Cup squad of a year ago and this summer's World Cup selection, and of those new boys only Fernandinho is in with a chance of starting.
The perfect example of that is Julio Cesar, who Scolari has kept faith with despite the goalkeeper failing to get a game with QPR before moving to Toronto in the MLS – and it should not be forgotten Scolari hit Serbian defender Ivica Dragutinovic to protect one of his players while coach of Portugal.
Then there is his confidence. He has repeatedly said this will be Brazil's tournament, and he repeated that in the bowels of Sao Paulo's Itaquera Stadium on Wednesday evening.
“To all the people in Brazil, I want to tell you the time has arrived,” he beamed. “We are together and this is our World Cup. My team is ready.”
Scolari, crucially, knows who he is and what he wants, with his calmness permeating through the Brazilian side.
“I try to be the coach I always was,” he says when asked to explain his personality. “I always work this way.
“I was never a coach in a different manner, when I was abroad in a big or small team. I learnt lessons when I was a pro with the excellent coaches I had.
“I am a mixture – a father, an uncle, a friend. That person that [is there when] someone has to speak to someone a bit more harshly; that is when I am a coach, a football coach.
“You have to have leadership, you have to command them [the players]. You study and define situations and take decisions. If you don't take decisions, you can’t work as a coach.”
That calmness and certainty extends to his personal life; Scolari has been with his wife, Olga, for 39 years, and he now has the job he loves.
He has only been in the position for 18 months since succeeding Mano Manezes but it feels like much longer, with his team's identity – they have only conceded two goals in their last seven games – writ large.
On Wednesday, the front cover of local newspaper Diario De Sao Paulo was entirely dedicated to a picture of Scolari. Underneath were the words 'Forca Felipao'.
The most popular man in Brazil could be about to make history – and the sales of moustaches could go through the roof.
'Croatia know how to stop Neymar & Brazil' - Kovac
By Peter McVitie
Jun 12, 2014 1:19:00 AM
The Eastern Europeans meet the tournament hosts to kick off the tournament and the coach is adamant his side can get something from the game
Croatia coach Niko Kovac says his team know what they have to do to stop Brazil and Neymar when they meet in the opening match of the World Cup.
The two sides kick off the tournament on Thursday at the Corinthians Arena with Brazil the favourites to win the match and the competition outright.
But Kovac insists it will be no easy task for Luiz Felipe Scolari's men and says his team are capable of handling them.
"We know how to stop Neymar and Brazil," Kovac said at his press conference. "Brazil is not only Neymar - they have a great team, but Croatia also have excellent players.
"All those in the team know how nice it is to play for Croatia and how much we love our people. We will leave our heart on the field."
The teams last met in the 2006 World Cup in Germany, with Brazil winning 1-0, but Kovac says his side will fight for a good result against the five-time world champions and vowed to attack throughout the game.
The coach continued: "In Berlin, we were not able to surprise them, but we will give our best. No surrender - we will attack Brazil! Just as we did in the Serbia friendly. Possession is very important because Brazilians do not like to run for the ball."
Croatia captain Dario Srna also vowed to make it difficult for the South American hosts, insisting they will make their fans proud of them.
"I cannot promise that we'll go get a group win or beat Brazil, but we'll give every ounce of energy," he said. "It is a big day for us. All Croatians will be proud.
"The pitch is great and our preparation went great, the conditions in the camp are excellent, arriving in Sao Paulo went without problems.
"Fernandinho and Willian are my friends. We agree that Brazil is the favourite, but they will not find it easy."
Brazil police fear protest violence at World Cup opener
By Brian Winter
SAO PAULO Wed Jun 11, 2014 6:01pm BST
Brazilian soldiers hold weapons as they are deployed to provide security at the Corinthians arena in Sao Paulo June 11, 2014, where Brazil will open the World Cup against Croatia on June 12. REUTERS/Damir Sagolj
(Reuters) - Brazilian police fear street demonstrations will erupt in violence prior to the World Cup's opening game on Thursday in Sao Paulo, as intelligence indicates a few hundred protesters will try to block roads leading to the stadium.
Police have used phone wiretaps and social media to gather information on protesters' movements and plans before the opener between Brazil and Croatia, which will attract 60,000 fans, leaders of world football body FIFA and about a dozen heads of state, including Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff.
Demonstrations have raged on and off since last June as Brazilians vent their anger against what they see as government overspending on the month-long tournament, among other issues.
At their peak, the protests drew more than 1 million people into the streets. They have been significantly smaller in recent months but police are worried about what they describe as a hard core of radicals, mostly young men, who have vandalized buildings and clashed with police at previous events.
Several protest groups have called on Facebook for their followers to gather in downtown Sao Paulo on Thursday at 10 a.m. (1300 GMT) and then head toward the Arena Corinthians, some 12 miles (20 km) east. The game is set to start at 5 p.m.
Surveillance indicates some protesters are planning to evade police barricades and cut off Radial Leste, a key thoroughfare that will be used by VIPs to get to the stadium, according to three officials informed of the intelligence.
Protesters or disgruntled subway workers who have taken strike action this month may also try to obstruct the train line that most fans will use to get to the game, the officials said.
Police have strict orders to keep roads and public transportation open.
"If the protesters try to keep fans from arriving, the situation could get ugly," one official said on condition of anonymity. "Police will keep the roads open, I guarantee."
Politicians ordered police to maintain a hands-off stance throughout much of last year, when protests were composed largely of the middle class.
But the tone has hardened as the Cup draws closer and polls show that only about half of Brazilians approve of the protests, down from 89 percent last June.
Rousseff and others have recently emphasized they expect police to maintain order and ensure fans can arrive at games. More than 150,000 police and soldiers have been deployed in the 12 cities hosting games.
"There's no problem with protests, but what is not possible is vandalism of public or private property. We can't have that," Sao Paulo Governor Geraldo Alckmin said on Tuesday.
PRE-CUP JITTERS
Rafael Alcadipani, a professor in Sao Paulo with close ties to both police and protest groups, said he had heard dire predictions of "war" for Thursday but that he expected cooler heads to prevail.
"I don't think it's going to be that bad," he said. "People are nervous but I think even the Black Blocs (a protest group) are realizing that people want the Cup to go forward."
Still, foreign delegations attending Thursday's game are "very concerned" and are evaluating alternate routes to the stadium if major violence erupts, a diplomat said.
Police in other cities were also preparing for trouble.
About 10 protest leaders in Rio de Janeiro were escorted to police stations on Wednesday to provide testimony, but were not arrested, a spokesperson at the state security office said.
A plan to preventively arrest some protest leaders in Sao Paulo did not go forward because police commanders concluded evidence was not strong enough to hold up in court, two officials said.
Protesters say the biggest risk comes not from themselves but from police, who have used rubber bullets and tear gas to break up previous demonstrations. A new web site set up by rights groups to collect evidence of police violence was being shared by protest leaders on social media on Wednesday.
(Additional reporting by Maria Pia Palermo in Rio de Janeiro; Editing by Kieran Murray)
Brazil hopes for smooth opener as World Cup kicks off
By Brian Winter and Kieran Murray
SAO PAULO Thu Jun 12, 2014 6:53am BST
A woman pose for a picture under street decorations on the public square where the fan zone for soccer matches will be held at Pelourinho neigborhood ahead of the 2014 World Cup in Salvador June 11, 2014. REUTERS/Marcos Brindicci
(Reuters) - After years of construction delays and budget overruns, the World Cup kicks off in Brazil on Thursday under a cloud of discontent at home even as happy foreign fans pour in for the tournament.
Brazil's national team hosts Croatia in the opening match at a newly built stadium in Sao Paulo whose cost and late delivery came to embody the troubled World Cup preparations.
Brazil is seen by many fans around the world as the spiritual home of football and hundreds of thousands will descend on the country for the month-long tournament, but until now the enthusiasm among Brazilians has been muted.
Many are angry over the $11.3 billion spent on hosting the World Cup when basic social services are poorly financed.
Massive street demonstrations rocked the country last year and although they have faded in numbers recently, officials expect a hard core of a few hundred people to try to block traffic to the stadium on Thursday. That could cause violent clashes with police.
Brazilians say the country will rally as soon as the action starts, especially if their team justifies its billing as favourite to win the tournament for a record sixth time.
"Just wait until Brazil starts winning. Then you'll see people in the streets," said Rogerio Souza, a fan in Sao Paulo, although he warned failure would cause more discontent.
"Brazilians only count titles. No one cares about second place. If they don't win the Cup at home, you'll see the criticism rain down,"
President Dilma Rousseff dismisses complaints about the heavy spending and delays in preparing stadiums and airports, and is betting Brazil will put on a show on and off the field.
"What I'm seeing more and more is the welcome given to the teams and the happiness of the Brazilian people with our team," she said in a speech on Wednesday.
Yet the list of possible problems is long. In fact, hosting a successful World Cup may ultimately prove harder for Brazil than winning it.
The main risk, for both fans and the government, appears to be violent street demonstrations.
Protests and labour strikes are planned in the 12 host cities, including a 24-hour slowdown by some airport workers in Rio de Janeiro although the threat of a long subway strike in Sao Paulo has eased.
Some businesses in Rio, the venue for seven Cup games including the final, had boarded up windows and doors by late on Wednesday in case protests erupted.
Officials privately expressed fears that protests and traffic problems could mean some fans might still be stuck outside the Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo when the opening match starts at 5 p.m. (2000 GMT).
The government has decreed a partial holiday for Thursday to help ease congestion. Still, a long list of VIPs including 10 heads of state and senior officials from world football body FIFA mean traffic will still be complicated.
UNTESTED STADIUM
The stadium itself has been a source of anxiety.
Not only was it delivered six months late at a cost of $525 million, about $150 million over budget, but because of the delays Thursday's game will be the facility's first at full capacity. That's a big no-no in the field of logistics and a violation of FIFA's normal protocol for World Cup games.
"I'm praying that nothing goes wrong," said Lizbeth Silva, a clerical worker at a Sao Paulo school. "You hear about all these problems, but you still want to root for Brazil."
The stakes for Brazil go well beyond the World Cup itself.
Rousseff is running for re-election in October, and a rough tournament would likely cause her popularity, already under duress, to fall further. Polls show she currently holds a lead of about 10 percentage points over her likely rival if the vote goes to a second round, as most expect.
Any major logistical problems and unrest could also further dent Brazil's reputation among investors, which has suffered since a decade-long economic boom fizzled under Rousseff.
At least one element is expected to cooperate on Thursday: the weather. Forecasters expect clear skies and a high of 75 degrees (24 C) - warm for the southern hemisphere winter.
Brazil's team, led by its exciting 22-year-old star striker Neymar, is heavily favored to beat Croatia.
As the tournament progresses, the fervor of foreign fans, hordes of whom have already descended upon host cities, could also help ease any tension among Brazilians themselves.
Outside Rio's Maracana stadium on Wednesday, Brazilians cheered and whistled as an SUV with a Colombian flag draped atop it stopped at a red light.
"We wouldn't miss this for the world," said the driver, adding that he and his three passengers left Colombia by road nearly three weeks ago.
(Additional reporting by Paulo Prada in Rio de Janeiro and Brad Haynes and Esteban Israel in Sao Paulo; Editing by Todd Benson and Paulo Prada)
When the FIFA World Cup 2014 kicks off in Brazil on June 12, the world will go crazy. India may be a cricket-loving country, but there has been a constant increase in the number of football fans too.
Here is a look at the best apps to keep you abreast of the latest happenings on the ground.
1. FIFA: Free
This is the tournament's official app. Featuring the latest news, it helps you to find all the relevant details about the 32 participating teams. It also offers a compressive schedule of all the 64 matches. The app claims to bring you closer to the world of football than ever before with breaking stories, galleries from Getty Images, videos from the FIFA TV Studio and FIFA archives.
2. SofaScore: Free
It will offer a wide range of information -- news, scores and stats. The app, which looks neat, courtesy a clean layout, offers in-depth analysis too. One can choose the team and opt for active notification.
3. BBC Sport: Free
BBC has updated its Sport app, which now has a section dedicated to the tournament. The app will offer live coverage of the 31 matches that BBC has the rights to broadcast. It will also offer a highlights package for every match as soon as it ends. The app can be used to set match alerts for various teams, and this will include line-ups, kick-off, goals and half-time score and result. The app is also linked to World Cup Breakfast, a special programme one will be able to download every morning for offline viewing. This app is available for iOS, Windows Phone and Android phones.
4. One Football: Free
A top trending app for FIFA, this one offers play by play match commentary in Live ticker. It has got all the schedules, match results, news, and team line-ups. One can also check out individual player reports with stats and links to his Twitter feed. The news feed ties into all the top football websites. The history section helps get information about the previous World Cups.
5. Jalvasco World Cup 2014: Free
Very similar to the official FIFA app, this one offers you photos, videos, news and any other information. It offers full data customisation - tracking chosen teams, groups, matches and conferences. Apart from showing the full schedule of matches, it even allows one to add and remove own tabs. There is also an option of browsing the match result in offline mode and setting application specific time zone. It even offers news about the next two World Cups in Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022).
From debutants Bosnia and Herzegovina to defending champions Spain, UEFA.com profiles the 13 European nations at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Group A: Brazil (hosts), Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon
Croatia
With hosts Brazil alongside them in Group A, Croatia expect to vie for second spot. Coach Niko Kovač has had a few injury concerns that have required his starting XI to be tinkered with, but the key trio of Luka Modrić, Ivan Rakitić and Mario Mandžukić should all be ready and raring come the finals. "We want to achieve big things," said Real Madrid CF midfielder Modrić. "We will not disappoint in Brazil, our fans will be proud of us." Croatia qualified with victory against Iceland in the play-offs.
Group B: Chile, Australia, Netherlands, Spain (holders)
Netherlands
The 2010 runners-up dropped just two points in qualifying under Louis van Gaal, who did not make the finals in his previous spell in charge 12 years ago. Departing for Manchester United FC when the campaign ends, Van Gaal has selected a squad with old heads like Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder up front, but the main worry lies in defence, largely made up of rawer players from the Eredivisie. "My dream is to become world champions," Van Gaal said. "That is what I live for, but I can name eight nations who have a better chance than us. I am always very realistic, but we do have a chance."
Spain
FIFA World Cup winners for the first time four years ago, Spain will defend their title with cautious optimism. A chastening 3-0 defeat by Brazil in last year's FIFA Confederations Cup final served as a warning to Vicente del Bosque's side. "The players are training very well and will arrive at their opening game [against the Netherlands] in good condition," Del Bosque said of the back-to-back UEFA European Championship winners, whose squad boasts 16 players from their 2010 success in South Africa.
Group C: Colombia, Ivory Coast, Greece, Japan
Greece
"Greece have been dealt a tricky draw, a group where every team could finish top or bottom," Fernando Santos said after the recent 2-1 victory against Bolivia. The Portuguese is still pondering his options ahead of Saturday's opener against Colombia, with midfielders Giannis Fetfatzidis and Panagiotis Kone now in contention. Striker Kostas Mitroglou will be crucial for Greece, but expectations? In 1994 they played their first World Cup match; in 2010 they recorded their first win; come 2014 they are seeking a first knockout tie.
Group D: Uruguay, England, Costa Rica, Italy
England
Expectations are uncharacteristically moderate; gone are the customary predictions of glory, replaced by fears of a group stage exit. Manager Roy Hodgson, sanguine enough, is not making any outlandish forecasts prior to his second final tournament at the helm. "We think our players, if they play to the best of their abilities and we get some luck, can have a very good World Cup." Indeed the Three Lions were undefeated in qualifying and will be hopeful that relatively untried youngsters such as Raheem Sterling and Ross Barkley can add to their threat.
Italy
Traditionally slow starters at major championships, UEFA EURO 2012 runners-up Italy have not exactly excelled themselves in their pre-tournament friendlies. Coach Cesare Prandelli, however, is not unduly worried. "Obviously we need to improve," he said after successive draws against Republic of Ireland and Luxembourg. "But we go to Brazil in the knowledge we can have a great World Cup." With young players like Matteo Darmian, Marco Verratti, Lorenzo Insigne and Ciro Immobile all in great form, Prandelli has good reason to be confident.
Group E: Honduras, Ecuador, France, Switzerland
France
Trailing 2-0 after a disastrous play-off first leg against Ukraine, France would be forgiven for feeling grateful to find themselves in Brazil. But there is real excitement and defiance around l'Hexagone caused by the emergence of fearless young talents such as Paul Pogba, Antoine Griezmann and Raphaël Varane, as well as a seemingly straightforward group featuring Switzerland, Honduras and Ecuador. Injury to Franck Ribéry is a blow but, four years after the 'Knysna fiasco' in South Africa, the 1998 winners are determined to write a new page in their World Cup history.
Switzerland
In what may have been their most impressive qualification campaign to date, Switzerland remained unbeaten to book their ticket to Brazil. Coach Ottmar Hitzfeld, who will retire after the tournament, praises the "tactical discipline and creativity in attack" of his side and has declared that "surviving the group stage would be a big success". The ambitions sound modest, yet a squad containing dangerous players like Valentin Stocker, Josip Drmić and Xherdan Shaqiri is capable of surprising.
Group F: Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, Nigeria
Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Dragons arrived in Brazil following training camps in Sarajevo and the United States, where they beat the Ivory Coast (2-1) and Mexico (1-0). Coach Safet Sušić has no injury concerns ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina's major tournament bow, with defender Ervin Bičakčić available once more. "We play in a tough group," said Sušić. "The first match is against Argentina, one of the favorites. Our goal is to give our best in the first match, to gain confidence and try to reach the second round."
Group G: Germany, Ghana, Portugal, United States
Germany
Having gone far in their last four major tournaments and dropped only two points in qualifying, one might think Germany would fancy their chances. However, recent injury worries surrounding key players Philipp Lahm, Sami Khedira, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Manuel Neuer have dampened the mood. Joachim Löw admits the situation is robbing him of sleep: "At night, I often think about lineups, injuries and the matches, but I have not yet dreamt of winning the trophy." If his side can overcome recent defensive problems and utilise their immense quality in attacking midfield, Löw should not be bothered by insomnia for long.
Portugal
"We have to think one game at a time and our first goal is to get through the group stage. Then we will see. We have the best player in the world but that doesn't mean we have to be world champions." These words from coach Paulo Bento show the spirit in Portugal's camp: moderate optimism and realistic expectations. Qualifying was not as brilliant as the play-off against Sweden, when Cristiano Ronaldo starred. All hope again falls on the Madrid man, though his left leg injury is raising concerns.
Group H: Belgium, Algeria, South Korea, Russia
Belgium
The last time Belgium were in a major finals in 2002, Marc Wilmots was a player. Now the coach, his team topped their qualifying group unbeaten – more than a decade of player development reaping the rewards with the talents of Vincent Kompany, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku, among others, giving plenty of cause for optimism. However, Wilmots warns: "In theory we can beat every team, but we could also suffer some accidents."
Russia
Having missed the last two World Cups, Russia are keen to show what they are capable of. They qualified in impressive fashion, finishing above UEFA EURO 2012 semi-finalists Portugal, and are understandably upbeat. Russia are the only team at the tournament to have all 23 of their squad plying their trade domestically. Their coach, though, is the distinguished Italian Fabio Capello, who knows progressing from Group H is no foregone conclusion. "Many people think it should be easy for us, but I want to tell them they are wrong," he said.
