Brazilians Revive World Cup Street Painting Tradition

In Rio de Janeiro, residents have revived the tradition of painting elaborate street murals ahead of the World Cup. Teenagers used green, blue, and yellow paint to create designs of the Brazilian flag, soccer balls, trophies, and player portraits. The custom had largely stopped after Brazil's devastating 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 semifinals, which was especially painful as Brazil hosted that tournament. Rafaela Santana, a 32-year-old baker who painted streets as a child, revived the practice in her neighborhood this year, noting the 2014 defeat had crushed national spirit. Now, with Brazil fielding a top contender, fans are daring to hope again. The murals appear on streets across Rio, decorated with streamers and diamond motifs in national colors.