World Cup kicks off despite hiccups

It’s been a bit of a rough start for the nation of Brazil as it hosts the World Cup.

Last night at midnight airport workers at the two main terminals in Rio de Janeiro went on strike to back a month’s long demand for a six percent pay increase.

The 24 hour strike disrupted international travel coming into the country, as well as domestic flights throughout Brazil.

Then, this morning, it got worse. Police and demonstrators clashed in Sao Paolo, the site of the opening match between host Brazil and Croatia.

Riot police fired tear gas, and used pepper spray to drive back a small crowd of demonstrators marching to Corinthians Stadium to protest the tournament. Brazilians have been angered by the $11 billion cost of the event.

At least two people were known to be injured, including a journalist for CNN, and at least one other person was arrested. That occurred about 10 kilometers from the stadium, which was under a heavy police blanket of tight security.

Here in Canada, however, a much lighter and happier mood at the Croatian Sports and Community Centre where fans were gathering early to get warmed up for the opening match featuring Croatia against Brazil.

With that game now over — Brazil beat Croatia 3-1 — there is just one more month to go until the final.