Sports

Brazil Scores 4 Goals and Wins Opening World Cup Match 3-1

Horns, including vuvuzelas, were loudly heard as a sea of yellow-and-green-clad fans made their excitement known and took over a large area in downtown Framingham Thursday evening.

It was not a great start for host country Brazil in the opening match of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Marcelo put the ball in his own net to have Croatia lead 1-0.

Star Brazilian player Neymar scored twice and Brazil earned another goal on a controversial penalty kick  on their way to a 3-1 victory. Brazil ironically scored all four goals in the win.

And once that win was secured the large Brazilian population in Framingham - the largest Brazilian population in New England - began celebrating in downtown Framingham around the Memorial Building.

Horns, including  the infamous vuvuzelas, were loudly heard as a sea yellow-and-green-clad fans made their excitement known. 

It was a peaceful but jubliant celebration.

Police had anticipated a spontaneous celebration may occur, and had set up barricades, like those used during Marathon Monday, and added extra patrols.

Motorists, however, took to Twitter and Facebook to post about the nightmare traffic downtown, as the game ended just after 6 p.m.

Framingham Police had issued an advisory earlier in the week, reminding fans to party responsibly.

"We strongly urge the community to celebrate responsibly and safely throughout the World Cup games. Be advised that all public safety laws will be strictly enforced, including but not limited to disorderly conduct, public 
intoxication, driving while intoxicated, seat belt violations, improperly licensed operators, etc," stated a press release from the Town of Framingham and Framingham Police Chief Ken Ferguson.

USA's first match in the World Cup is Monday, June 16 against Ghana, who is favored to win.

Brazil next plays on Tuesday, July 17 at 3 p.m. against Mexico. 

The finals are scheduled for July 13.

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Originally posted at 8:30 p.m. on June 12. Updated with video.


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