Ireland’s sizable Brazilian population was out in force on Dublin’s O’Connell Street in solidarity with their countrymen. The Confederations Cup, now underway, has become a beacon for protest in Brazil among a people who see billlions spent on white elephant stadia while hospitals are overcrowded, water is cut off in schools and public transport is in chaos.
Big Phil Scolari has shocked Brazilian supporters by omitting both Kaká and Ronaldinho for the upcoming Confederations Cup. The squad announcement, indicating the players expected to compete for World Cup glory on home soil next summer, drew gasps from the assembled press.
Either Ronaldinho or Kaká look likely to miss the 2014 World Cup as Brazil coach Phil Scolari says it’s one or the other for June’s Confederations Cup. Meanwhile Neymar was on target again as the Selecáo were held to a 2-2 friendly draw with Chile.