Are You Ready for Futbol? World Cup Soccer Starts Today

Brazil is hosting the 20th FIFA World Cup soccer tournament and the host country will have the first match of the tournament today at 4 p.m. (est) against Croatia.

Brazil last hosted the Cup in 1950, but this time there has been some controversy, ranging in construction issues to problems fans will encounter in Brazil.There are a dozen venues (seven new and five renovated) in 12 cities hosting Cup matches.

Spain is the defending champion, having defeated the Netherlands 10 in the 2010 World Cup finals. The previous four World Cups staged in South America were all won by South American teams. The 2014 World Cup final is scheduled for July 13.

There are 8 groups and 32 countries competing, including the United States, who has its first match on Monday, June 16 against Ghana.

Soccer is #1 sport in the world, although not in the United States.  

World Cup soccer matches have two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime break. And for the first time at a World Cup, the matches will use goal-line technology.

This year, the official 2014 FIFA World Cup Song We Are One (Ole Ola) is sung by Pitbull featuring Jennifer Lopez & Claudia Leitte. (Video is attached)

The Town of Framingham is NOT hosting any Cup celebrations.

The Town does anticipate there may be localized celebrations at establishments and residences within Framingham. (Editor's Note: Framingham is home to one of the largest Brazilian populations on the East Coast.)

"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.

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Originally posted at 1:30 a.m. on June 12. Updated with NEW safety posted from the Town of Framingham