Maracanã stadium tests security with Belgium and Russia.
Adjustments were made to the operation for the matches at the Maracanã stadium, following the invasion by Chilean fans on June 18th; Military Police will increase the number of officers around the stadium by 600, in addition to the 2,5 professionals already working in the city; Belgium and Russia will face each other at 13 PM this Sunday in Group H; the match could determine the group leader.
Vitor Abdala - Reporter for Agência Brasil - Police presence around the Maracanã Stadium has been reinforced since early morning for the Russia vs. Belgium match, scheduled to begin at 13 p.m. The strict security scheme set up by the Military Police (PM) at all intersections of Rua São Francisco Xavier allows access only to residents, fans with tickets, and personnel accredited by the International Federation of Football (FIFA).
Unaccredited press, for example, are being prevented from approaching the stadium. The security cordon includes members of the Military Police's Shock Troops, the Municipal Guard with trained dogs, cones, and patrols on the road to prevent the passage of any unaccredited vehicle.
Russian and Belgian fans are already starting to arrive at the Maracanã. Belgian Roel Vertlinder arrived with two friends around 9:30 am to soak up the atmosphere of the game. "This is a great match, and we need to win. I arrived in Rio yesterday and I'm leaving tomorrow. I came just for this game, which is very important. For the first time we are favorites, since we have always been the underdogs of the World Cup. We're going to take advantage of arriving early to have a beer or – who knows! – a cachaça," he said.
Russian fan Vladimir Alexsander arrived dressed in a typical army beret from his country. "I arrived a week ago, and I'll stay for a few more days. I've enjoyed what I've seen in Brazil so far. I hope Russia comes out victorious today," he said.