Football fans kicked off the World Cup in a blaze of Brazilian extravaganza in Aberdeen last night.
They packed into the city’s Hey Brazil restaurant, in Crown Street, which was decorated from floor to roof in the country’s traditional bright yellow.
A couple of Samba dancers strutted their stuff in the busy bar as the atmosphere built up toward’s the world’s biggest football tournament opening match.
Around 140 people had got their hands on tickets for the event which had been eagerly anticipated by regulars and staff at the restaurant.
Customers were welcomed with Brazilian cocktails and offered a range of authentic snacks and appetisers.
Everywhere you turned, the iconic Brazilian flag was flying, while a framed number 10 football top, representing the legendary Pele, was in a prominent spot above the bar.
Hosts Brazil, considered by many to be favourites for the coveted trophy, were taking on Croatia in the 48,000 capacity Corinthians Arena – 6,000 miles away, in Sao Paulo.
As kick-off approached, queues snaked along Crown Street, with 140 tickets sold to guarantee a capacity crowd in the venue, as people got settled into their vantage point in front of one of several large-screen TVs.
Co-director, Tiago Silva, said they were recreating what was happening simultaneously in bars, restaurants, and community halls back in his native Brazil.
Originally from Sao Paulo, the venue for last night’s match, he said: “This is how Brazil is when the national team is playing, although it will be a public holiday there, with factories, offices, and schools all closed.
“What we are doing is showing people what we do when there is a match, but with Brazil hosting the World Cup it will be even bigger than normal.”
At half time, fans were served a selection of freshly grilled meats which the restaurants expert Passadores sliced at their tables.
Hey Brazil will be hosting similar celebrations on Tuesday, June 17 for the Brazil v Mexico game, and again on Sunday, July 13 for the World Cup final.