“World Cup preparations speed ahead”, Rousseff tells footballers

President Dilma Rousseff has exchanged Twitter messages with soccer stars Neymar and Kaká and retired Ronaldo “the phenomenon”.

“The preparations for the Cup of Cups continue at full pace,” she said, telling Ronaldo that another stadium was unveiled on Wednesday (Jan. 22). “We'll soon have all 12 ready,” she announced.

The footballers commended the World Cup venues. Ronaldo said: “We are delivering modern, safe stadiums, which will shine out and attract more and more audiences."

Milan attacking midfielder Kaká cheered as Brazil makes a home for soccer again, and said: “Never before has a World Cup sold so many advance tickets.” Ronaldo reported the stadiums already in use have sold over $74 million in the 2013 Brazilian Championship.

Neymar gave his word that he will work hard alongside his fellow team members to win back Brazil's crown.

Translated by Mayra Borges