ABOVE: Brazilian kids born in “Las Favelas” (shanty towns) are known for their innate talent in soccer. Although many of these kids won’t be able to see the games for themselves they enjoy the excitement and energy that the world cup brings to their country.
ITU, Brazil – There’s probably no future Neymar under the collapsing old hangar where the boys of Itu are playing street soccer.
But these kids are pretty good. Make that REALLY good.
They flick and flutter, dart and dazzle. They’re fast, ruthless and cheeky — and above all show the improvisation that allowed their heroes to turn football into the beautiful game (and perhaps their parents just to get by in life.)
Every Sunday, across this gigantic nation of rain forests and legendary beaches, groups of kids flock to makeshift pitches like this one to play impromptu tournaments where everyone’s welcome. You just show up and wait your turn.
SEE MORE: Complete 2014 World Cup coverage here
The rules are simple. A game is over after 10 minutes, or when one side scores two goals. The winner stays, the loser makes way for the next team. In case of a draw, the team that won the last match stays. If that’s not the case for either, both teams leave the field.
Basically, you keep going till you lose. The skill and passion even these young amateurs show give a sense of why Brazil is still the world’s greatest footballing nation.
GALLERY: Brazil’s youth revel in street soccer as heroes ready for World Cup
But the boys playing their hearts out here are nervous about Brazil’s chances of winning the World Cup.
“I’m not a believer,” said Jose Hinaldo, a tubby, shirtless guy with rhinestone ear studs.
READ MORE: The (super) smart money is on Brazil to claim Cup glory
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