In Pictures: Kick-off at Brazil 2014

Short but sweet: The opening ceremony of the 2014 football World Cup saw colour, music, dances and some football tricks.

Despite earlier news confirming her absence, J Lo did take the stage in Brazil together with Pitbull for their song We Are One.

But the real action began on the pitch with the hosts taking on Croatia in the 2014 World Cup opener.

The stadium was a sea of yellow with plenty of support for the hosts in the stands.

However, it was Croatia that drew first blood. Marcelo(***)s own-goal helped Croatia take an early lead in the match.

Brazilian star Neymar, however, gave the home fans plenty to shout about by first equalising and then putting his side 2-1 ahead.

Oscar was not going to be left behind. He scored in injury-time to seal his side(***)s 3-1 win and give them the three points.