Brazil beat Croatia in WC opener
Sunday, 15 June 2014
SAO PAULO, June 13 (AP): World Cup hosts Brazil beat Croatia 3-1in the first match of the World Cup here Thursday. Brazil striker Fred went down in the penalty area under slight contact from Lovren in the 71st minute, allowing Neymar to convert a spot kick that gave Brazil a decisive 2-1 lead in Thursday's tournament opener.
Criticism of referee Nishimura's penalty award was criticised by Croatia coach Niko Kovac.