Brazil's Loss and the Devastating Revelations

            What happened yesterday within the span of two hours was ridiculous, ludicrous, hilarious for some, and disheartening for Brazilians. Their 7-1 loss was only made more humiliating by the 4 goals which occurred within about 6 minutes of each other. The Brazilian team left in shame, and Brazilians across the country began to renew the protests which had occurred before.

            The earlier protests of 2013, some of which continued into 2014 and during the world cup, came from Brazilians who were venting their frustration at the expenses of hosting the world cup. Almost $4 billion has been spent on stadium expenses and many of the local Brazilian vendors are being shut out of the increased commerce and consumer traffic that comes with hosting the World Cup.

            The protests are over the game, which will always stand as a great shame to the nation’s soccer team. But the issues that have fueled the protests are much more deep and difficult to solve. Millions of people live in the favelas and suffer from continuous poverty and lack of access to good water, food, and education. Many also suffer from even worse poverty in the rural areas. Crime is rampant and killings have become common amongst gangs in the favelas. The hosting of the world cup meant many things: national prestige, future investment, but also ignoring the needs of Brazilian citizens who are suffering.

            Brazil’s government must focus on improving the conditions of its many poor which populate the favelas. If they do not, I fear the anger that could be produced from an event worse than Tuesday’s soccer game.