This is a panoramic i took at the game on Wednesday of Maracana Stadium. The stadium was absolutely massive. Seating seventy eight thousand, it almost compares to the capacity of the Ohio Stadium. The energy inside the stadium was just amazing. The match was the first phase of the Brazil Cup, between Flamengo and Brasil RS. Both teams’ colors were red and black, and as easily guessed, just about every single person was dressed accordingly. Upon finding our seats (second row!! 🙂 ) we noticed the extremely spirited and loud section of people behind and to the right of us. I like to think of this section as an equivalent of Block “O” on a game day for the buckeyes. All sporting the teams colors, waving flags, blowing horns and even complete with a band, these people were ready for the game to say the least. At first we assumed they were the home (Flamengo) teams fan section but upon hearing boo’s with the entrance of the team, quickly learned they were on the opposing side. The game had a slow start, with a score of zero-zero for the first half. Flamengo delivered in the second half, scoring two goals and winning the game. To our surprise and much astonishment, throughout the entire game, even upon their opposing team scoring (twice) the fan section for the Brasil RS consistently cheered and sung and chanted. After the game was over, the fans still cheered on their loosing team. This truly was a display of not only good sportsmanship but the importance role football plays in these peoples lives. It is part of the lifestyle, cheering on your team, win or loose, no matter the outcome. This experience was eye opening and much admired.