Underseer
Contributor
Does Canada have a team? If so, I'll cheer for them. I don't think we have one, though, so I'll pick England to win.
Canada is in CONCACAF, which can send two teams to the World Cup. These days, those two teams are practically guaranteed to be the US and Mexico.
Actually, CONCACAF has four finalists this time--Costa Rica and Honduras are there along with the US and Mexico. And Mexico had to huff and puff to make it this time, as they had to play New Zealand in an elimination match to qualify.
Holy crap, CONCACAF got more slots? That's epic!
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Not a great opening match but not the worst I've ever seen in nearly 30 years of following World Cups. Details hidden to avoid spoilers for those unable to watch live.
As bilby noted, the scoreline was flattering to Brazil. They didn't play an outstanding game--their offense looked out of synch most of the time and they seemed shaky at the back.
We also get our first officiating controversy of the Cup with the very tight call on the penalty.
Oscar was a bright spot for Brazil--industrious and energetic throughout; his goal was a just reward for his hard work.
You make it sound so boring
Brazil started off the festivities with an own goal. I have to imagine the Brazilian press is being unkind to them right now.