Fans lap up Brazil party

Host nation Brazil got the World Cup started with a bang last night – and Bermudians were only too happy to join the party.

Bars were packed as the home side overcame a gallant Croatia side 3-1 thanks to a controversial second-half penalty from Neymar after Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez has taken to the stage for the opening ceremony. 

Pier 6 got their fan zone up and running for the curtain-raiser as the ultimate festival of football kicked-off.

Poster boy Neymar was the star man — and he didn’t disappoint with two strikes after a Marcelo own goal has left the partisan crowd in the Corinthians Arena, Sao Paulo, subdued. Oscar added a late third to cap an impressive display from the Chelsea man.

Fans in Docksiders lapped up the action and Dejaun Simmons told the Sun: “Honestly, I think it’s possible for Brazil to win the World Cup based solely on their defence.

“I think Germany is  everyone’s favourite as they are more likely to win the World Cup, but because it’s based in Brazil, Brazil still has the opportunity.

“I’m born in Bermuda but I chose Brazil as my team!”

Jennifer Ward added: “My team is England, because I’m a Liverpool grad and this is Bermuda, so we have ties. 

“I think Brazil’s going to take it though, because they’re at home. Portugal’s my second team, so once England’s out, I’m going for Portugal. I hope they do good but I don’t think they’re going to win!”

Other fans were also keen to emphasise their England and Portugal ties as they looked ahead to rest of the weekend’s opening games.

England take on Italy on Saturday (7pm), while Portugal have a heavyweight clash against Germany on Monday to look forward to.

Arthur Rego said: “I’m half Portuguese, my family’s from the Azores, so Portugal is my team. 

“But, practically, I think a South American team is going to win because they’re used to the climate.”

Craig Dixon added: “I’m Bermudian but I’m cheering for England because Bermuda’s never going to make the World Cup.

“My girlfriend and my oldest daughter are for Portugal, and that’s my second team but England comes first. I think Germany or Argentina will win to be honest. I don’t think England will, although I’d love them to.” 

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