Football

After a long wait for the biggest mega event of this year, the 2014 FIFA World Cup kicked-off with a bang.

Brazil have played in the opening game of a World Cup on three occasions, beating Scotland (1998) and Mexico (1950) and drawing with Yugoslavia (1974).

The Italy midfielder is hoping to end his international career by winning a second World Cup.

The Brazil World Cup could finally decide whether the name of Messi or Ronaldo is etched into football legend alongside the Peles and Maradonas and Zidanes.

Belgium arrived in Brazil brimming with confidence and strong favourites to top Group H after cruising through qualifying unbeaten.

For the first time in the history of football in Brazil, Brazil has the defence better than the attack.

The Arsenal midfielder injured his right knee during a warm-up match against Ecuador last Wednesday.

It took Chris Hallett, 44, four months to reach Brazil on Monday after setting off from London.

Brazil, who are clear favorites to become the fourth hosts to win the World Cup, are expected to storm through their opening matches of the tournament.

"It's unfair to compare India with the top football countries in the world. We are far behind in world football," Chhetri said.

Germany arrived at their World Cup base by ferry on Sunday, welcomed by flag-waving schoolchildren and a small crowd of well-wishers.

"I think he will make the tournament without a shadow of a doubt. That's good news," Hodgson said after his side were held to a 0-0 draw by 10-man Honduras.

Goalkeeper David de Gea remains hopeful that Spain would defend the World Cup in Brazil.

Van Persie has declared himself 100 percent fit for the World Cup as the Dutch national side arrived in Rio de Janeiro for the June 12-July 13 tournament.

A 23-man Chile squad, including midfielder Arturo Vidal, has arrived in Brazil as the team starts preparations for its opening FIFA World Cup match against Australia.

If the "Fantastic Quartet" of Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and Angel Di Maria are on song, Argentina can emerge victorious in Brazil to claim a third World Cup victory.