VOICED: Remaking Rio's mythic Maracana stadium

The Maracana Stadium in Rio underwent a $660 million renovation for the 2014 World Cup, reducing its capacity to 83,000 seats and adding a modern roof. The stadium, known for historic soccer moments like Pelé's 1000th goal and Brazil's 1950 World Cup defeat to Uruguay, is a symbol of both pride and painful memories. Despite delays and criticism over costs, the renovation was completed by December 2012. The World Cup's return to Brazil was met with excitement, offering a chance to avenge past defeats and showcase the best soccer globally.

What was one of the major changes made to the Maracana Stadium for the 2014 World Cup?

• Relocation to a different city

• Addition of a state-of-the-art roof

• Increased seating capacity to 200,000

• Conversion into a multi-sport complex

Which significant event took place at the Maracana Stadium in 1969?

• The stadium was first opened

• Pele scored his 1000th goal

• Brazil won the World Cup

• Uruguay defeated Brazil in the final

What was the outcome of the 1950 World Cup final for Brazil?

• Brazil did not reach the final

• The match was a draw

• Brazil won against Uruguay

• Brazil lost to Uruguay

What were some of the challenges faced during the Maracana Stadium renovation?

• Lack of funding

• Opposition from local residents

• Accidents and labor strikes

• Environmental concerns

What is one reason some critics opposed the stadium's renovation?

• The stadium was too old to renovate

• The changes were not worth the cost

• The location was unsuitable

• The design was outdated