Brazil Prepares for the World Cup

Thursday will be the opening day of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The widely-viewed event will bring together 32 national football teams to compete in 64 matches in facilities in twelve cities across Brazil. Billions of dollars have been spent since Brazil was named host nation in 2007 -- on new stadiums, upgraded stadiums, improved transportation facilities, new hotel space, and broad security measures. Many Brazilians are unhappy with the expenditures during a time of social hardship, and have been vocal in protests for years. Hundreds of thousands of fans will soon make their way to Brazil -- the opening match is on June 12, the final match on July 13. Collected here are images of recent preparations for the 2014 World Cup.

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