Intro:

Rio de Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statue was illuminated with the 32 national flags of the teams competing in the 2014 Brazil World Cup, which kicks off today with the Selecao against Croatia in Sao Paulo's Arena Corinthians (KO 21:00 BST).

Script:

The Brazil World Cup is now upon us but last night Rio's Christ the Redeemer statue was illuminated with the 32 national flags of the teams competing in the world's largest football tournament.

The 30 metre statue, which has over looked Rio de Janeiro since it's completion in 1933, was given a spectacular make over on the eve of the competition.

The monument donned the colours of the likes of Germany, Argentina, hosts Brazil, and reigning world and European champions Spain.

Coloured lights were projected onto the iconic statue while the national anthems of each team were played in the background.

Meanwhile, workers were making final preparations for the Fifa Fan Fest at Copacabana Beach, an event which will feature live music concerts and iconic moments from past World Cup events.

Brazil's second largest city was painted in a colourful hue but the nation hopes it's Seleção star Neymar who lights up the World Cup.