The energy of a country famous for its adoration of football was at last unleashed as Brazil commenced the twentieth World Cup with triumph over Croatia.
After a preparation period that was defaced by social distress and protests, fireworks lit up the night sky over the widening city to celebrate the goals in the games 3-1 win.
Yet this was not an agreeable night for the hosts of whom so much has been put on their shoulders.
They fell behind, ahead of Croatia’s plan, but after they had balanced the score through the hypnotizing Neymar they required a delicate penalty honored by referee Yuichi Nishimura to provide for them triumph.
It was an apprehensive, strained night for mentor Luis Felipe Scolari and his group. The diversion was short on the delightful, however the result was everything.